Luke 12:46
The lord of that servant will come in a day when he looketh not for him, and at an hour when he is not aware, and will cut him in sunder, and will appoint him his portion with the unbelievers.
Luke 12:46 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse serves as a reminder of the importance of staying vigilant and faithful while waiting for the return of the Lord. The imagery of the master unexpectedly cutting his servant in sunder and assigning him a place among the unbelievers showcases the consequences of neglecting one's relationship with God. The message here is that we should always be prepared and living a life of faith, as we never know when the Lord will return - it could happen at any moment. By being faithful and watchful, we can avoid being caught off guard and ensure that we are found worthy in the eyes of the Lord. It is a sobering reminder to stay true to our beliefs and not become complacent in our faith walk, as our eternal destiny depends on our constant vigilance and dedication to the teachings of Christ.
Theological Overview
This verse highlights the importance of being vigilant and prepared for the return of the Lord. The master in the parable represents Jesus, who will come unexpectedly to judge his servants. The phrase "cut him in sunder" is a strong warning of the severe consequences for those who are unfaithful and unprepared. The word "portion" signifies the final destiny of the unfaithful servant, who will be grouped with the unbelievers. This emphasizes the urgency of living a life dedicated to serving the Lord and being watchful for his return. The theological interpretation of this verse reminds believers of the need to remain faithful and diligent in their relationship with God, as they never know when he will come back to judge the world.
Luke 12:46 in other translations
American Standard Version
the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he expecteth not, and in an hour when he knoweth not, and shall cut him asunder, and appoint his portion with the unfaithful.
World English Bible
then the lord of that servant will come in a day when he isn’t expecting him, and in an hour that he doesn’t know, and will cut him in two, and place his portion with the unfaithful.
Douay-Rheims
The lord of that servant will come in the day that he hopeth not, and at the hour that he knoweth not: and shall separate him and shall appoint him his portion with unbelievers.
Geneva Bible (1599)
The master of that seruant will come in a day when he thinketh not, and at an houre when he is not ware of, and will cut him off, and giue him his portion with the vnbeleeuers.