Luke 19:15
And it came to pass, that when he was returned, having received the kingdom, then he commanded these servants to be called unto him, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading.
Luke 19:15 · King James Version
Meaning
This verse, found in the book of Luke (Luke 19:15), is part of the Parable of the Ten Minas. In this parable, a nobleman goes away to receive a kingdom, leaving ten of his servants with minas (a unit of money) to invest while he is gone. When he returns, he calls his servants to see how much they have gained through their trading. The nobleman represents Jesus, and the servants represent us as believers. This parable teaches us about stewardship and accountability. Just as the servants were expected to invest and increase what they were given, we as Christians are called to use our time, talents, and resources wisely for the kingdom of God. The nobleman's command to call his servants and give an account of their trading symbolizes the eventual judgment believers will face when they stand before Christ. It reminds us of the importance of faithfully using the gifts and opportunities God has given us to further his kingdom.
Theological Overview
In this verse from the book of Luke, Jesus narrates a parable about a nobleman who goes away to receive a kingdom and then returns to assess the performance of his servants. The theological interpretation of this verse underscores the importance of stewardship and accountability in the context of God's kingdom. The nobleman represents Jesus Himself, who will one day return to judge all who are entrusted with resources and responsibilities. The servants in this parable are symbolic of believers who are called to faithfully steward the gifts and talents given to them by God. The concept of trading in this verse refers to utilizing these resources effectively for the growth of the kingdom of God. The emphasis here is not on the amount gained, but on the faithfulness and diligence in using the gifts for the Lord's purposes. This parable challenges believers to evaluate their own stewardship, reminding them that one day they will have to give an account for how they have used what was entrusted to them.
Luke 19:15 in other translations
American Standard Version
And it came to pass, when he was come back again, having received the kingdom, that he commanded these servants, unto whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know what they had gained by trading.
World English Bible
“When he had come back again, having received the kingdom, he commanded these servants, to whom he had given the money, to be called to him, that he might know what they had gained by conducting business.
Douay-Rheims
And it came to pass that he returned, having received the kingdom: and he commanded his servants to be called, to whom he had given the money, that he might know how much every man had gained by trading,
Geneva Bible (1599)
And it came to passe, when hee was come againe, and had receiued his kingdome, that he commanded the seruants to be called to him, to whome he gaue his money, that he might knowe what euery man had gained.