GOSPEL READING
THE GOSPEL OF LUKE
The Parable of the Kingdom: Lk 19,11-28
Luke and Matthew
This parable in 19,11-28 resembles the well-known parable of the talents in the Gospel of Matthew (Mt 25,14-30) and yet the two are quite different when we look closely. As a first step, note where the two parables come in the stories of their respective gospels.
Then make a comparison between the two parables which .will bring out how Luke's version is distinctive. You will find a story in the Luke parable which seems similar to Matthew's. However, note the very different conclusions (Lk 19,26 and Mt 25,30). Note as well 12,42-44. Then look at how Luke has set an inner story in an outer setting, a theme set by the opening verse, 19,11 and the closing verse, 19,28.
Then take a look at my response.
The Parable: Lk 19,11-28
It's common to end the parable with verse 27. We have already seen why we are including verse 28 as well.
At the beginning, what is the premise in verse 11?
Who is or might be the king in the outer story (19,12)? Who are his enemies (19,14)? See 19,38 and compare with Mk 11,9.
With that in mind, who are the servants(see 17,10)?
What is the nature of the reward of the first two servants?, verses 17 & 19. Note the contrast with Mt 25,21.23.
How are we to understand the exchange with the third servant, verses 20-23 and the king's response, verses 24-26?
Consider how the final saying in verse 27 is a conclusion. How then can we read this story?
Look now at my response.
With the message of this parable fresh in our minds, we can now hear Luke telling us at last about the arrival of Jesus on the Mount of Olives, 19,29-40.