KingdomBuilder wrote:Now, my first question is whether or not you interpret this verse as strictly applying to "servants" in the sense of believers? Or do you think this is about believers vs unbelievers?
Secondly, for those who believe this is referencing believers, who do you think represents those "who did not know" today?
Hmmm, let's look at the whole passage (and thanks to Neto for checking the context ;->)
41 Peter said, "Lord, are you telling this parable for us or for all?" 42 And the Lord said, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time? 43 Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.
When Peter asks if this is for the disciples or everyone, Jesus answers this - it's for those who have been put in charge of the household. Clearly, that's for followers of Jesus.
44 Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions. 45 But if that servant says to himself, 'My master is delayed in coming,' and begins to beat the male and female servants, and to eat and drink and get drunk, 46 the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know, and will cut him in pieces and put him with the unfaithful. 47 And that servant who knew his master's will but did not get ready or act according to his will, will receive a severe beating.
We need to be aware that Jesus is coming again and we will be held accountable.
48 But the one who did not know, and did what deserved a beating, will receive a light beating. Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required, and from him to whom they entrusted much, they will demand the more.
But there are some who simply do not know, and sin out of ignorance. Their punishment will not be as severe. The more God has given us, the more we are held accountable for what he has given us.
Is it biblical? Is it Christlike? Is it loving? Is it true? How can I find out?