New Testament
Luke 19:23
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Then why didn't you put my money in the bank? That way, when I returned, I could have collected it with interest.
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Wherefore then gavest not thou my money into the bank, that at my coming I might have required mine own with usury?
What Luke 19:23 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the master is expressing disappointment with a servant who failed to invest his money wisely. Instead of putting the money in the bank to earn interest, the servant chose to hide it away. The master expected the servant to take some initiative and make the most of the resources given to him. This highlights the importance of being responsible and proactive with what we have. The master’s return signifies accountability; he wants to see how the servant managed his resources. The mention of interest (or usury) indicates that even a small effort to grow the money would have been better than doing nothing. This parable teaches us about the value of using our talents and opportunities wisely, as we will be held accountable for how we manage what we are given.
How to apply Luke 19:23 to your life
We should actively use our skills and resources to benefit ourselves and others. Instead of being passive, we can seek ways to grow what we have, whether it’s our time, talents, or finances. This encourages us to be diligent and responsible in our daily lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
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Keep studying Luke 19:23
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Key themes
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At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 19:23 teach about responsibility?
Luke 19:23 emphasizes the importance of being responsible with the resources entrusted to us. The master expected the servant to take initiative and invest the money wisely, which reflects the expectation that we should actively manage our talents and opportunities rather than hiding them away.
How can I apply the lesson of Luke 19:23 in my life?
To apply the lesson from Luke 19:23, look for ways to actively use your skills, time, and resources. This could mean investing in your education, volunteering your talents, or managing your finances wisely. The key is to be proactive and seek growth in whatever you have been given.
What does 'usury' mean in Luke 19:23?
In Luke 19:23, 'usury' refers to the interest earned on money when it is invested or loaned out. The master expected the servant to at least put the money in the bank to earn interest, highlighting the expectation of making the most out of resources rather than letting them sit idle.
Why is accountability important in Luke 19:23?
Accountability is crucial in Luke 19:23 because it illustrates that we will be held responsible for how we manage what we have. The master’s return signifies a time of reckoning, reminding us that our actions with our resources will be evaluated, and we should strive to use them wisely.
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