Commentary on Luke 20:10

Luke 20:10 (KJV): "And at the season he sent a servant to the husbandmen: that they should give him of the fruit of the vineyard: but the husbandmen beat him, and sent him away empty."

Introduction

This verse is situated within the parable of the wicked husbandmen, a profound teaching of Jesus that mirrors the historical rejection of God's messengers by Israel. Historically and theologically significant, this text encapsulates themes of stewardship, judgment, and grace.

Historical Context

Matthew Henry: The context surrounding this parable highlights the relationship between God and His people, using the metaphor of a vineyard, an image familiar to Jewish audiences. The vineyard represents Israel, as depicted in Isaiah 5:1-7, where God's expectation of fruitfulness is emphasized.

The Sending of the Servant

Albert Barnes: The 'servant' symbolizes the prophets sent by God to the Israelites. These servants, after careful preparation of the vineyard, are expected to receive the fruits due to the owner. Their mission was one of expectation, revealing God's desire for a return on His investment in the people.

• The act of sending signifies God's persistent mercy despite the history of Israel's unfaithfulness.
• Each servant represents different prophets, illustrating the unyielding nature of God's call.

The Response of the Husbandmen

Adam Clarke: The husband's violent reaction to the servant illustrates the ingratitude and defiance of the Israelite leaders. They viciously beat the servant and returned him empty-handed, signifying spiritual barrenness.

• The beating of the servant indicates rejection; it demonstrates the hostility towards God's message and messengers.
• This reflects the larger narrative of the Old Testament where many prophets, like Jeremiah and Isaiah, faced persecution for delivering God's verdict.

Theological Implications

Matthew Henry: The parable serves as a sobering reminder of divine judgment. Just as God sought the fruit of the vineyard, He expects spiritual fruit from believers today. Failure to produce fruit results in severe consequences.

Furthermore, the rejection of the servant is analogous to the greater rejection Christ Himself would face—foreshadowing the ultimate rejection of the Son of Man.

Lessons for Believers

Albert Barnes: This passage serves as a warning not only to the Jewish leaders of Jesus’ time but also to modern believers. It challenges congregations and leaders to reflect on how they respond to God's call for fruitfulness in their lives and communities.

• It is a call to recognize the importance of obedience to God's commands.
• It emphasizes the urgency to yield to God as faithful stewards of His vineyard, thereby producing the fruits of the Spirit.

Conclusion

Adam Clarke: The narrative conveyed in Luke 20:10 embodies timeless truths about the nature of God’s engagement with humanity. As believers, we are called to acknowledge the seriousness of our stewardship and the implications of our responses to God’s messengers. The weight of this parable urges introspection and commitment to be fruitful in our divine calling.