Scripture

“Now throw this useless servant into the outer darkness, where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.”

Observation

Jesus tells the parable of three servants.

A man going on a long trip entrusts money to three servants, according to their ability. To one he gives five bags of silver, to another two bags, and to the third one bag. Two of the three servants invest the money and double their investment, while the third servant buries his treasure in a hole in the ground .

The master returns. He is delighted with the efforts of the servants to whom he had given five and two bags. The third servant said to his master, “I know you are a harsh man and I was afraid I would lose the money you gave me.”

The money given to this third servant is given to one of the other servants. The useless servant is thrown into the outer darkness where there is weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Application

Jesus often spoke about the judgement coming upon those who are opposed to God. People who think that Jesus was just about warm fuzzies and pretty unicorns have never read what He said. Much of his teaching is a warning to escape judgement from the Father.

In this case, the judgement fell on a man who was fearful of punishment. He saw the master as harsh and unforgiving. In his fear, he failed to live up to what was expected of him. There are people who refuse to have anything to do with God because of a false perception that He is harsh and waiting to smite those who earn His displeasure. Because they refuse to see that God is love, then they bring upon themselves the judgement they feared.

Hell is real! Judgement is real! The only way to be put right with God is to receive the forgiveness bought on the cross by Jesus. There is no other way to the Father. But the way is open to everyone who comes to Him.

Prayer

Father, thank you for your great love and never ending grace. Thank you for the assurance that you welcome all who come to you in Jesus. Amen