Luke 19:12

He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

He said {G2036} therefore {G3767}, A certain {G5100} nobleman {G444}{G2104} went {G4198} into {G1519} a far {G3117} country {G5561} to receive {G2983} for himself {G1438} a kingdom {G932}, and {G2532} to return {G5290}.

Therefore he said, “A nobleman went to a country far away to have himself crowned king and then return.

So He said, “A man of noble birth went to a distant country to lay claim to his kingship and then return.

He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country, to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

Commentary

Luke 19:12 introduces the foundational premise of the Parable of the Minas (sometimes called the Parable of the Ten Servants or Ten Pounds), spoken by Jesus as he approached Jerusalem. This verse sets the stage for a profound lesson on stewardship, accountability, and the nature of the Kingdom of God.

Context of Luke 19:12

This parable immediately follows the story of Zacchaeus' conversion in Jericho. Luke notes that Jesus was "nigh to Jerusalem," and the people thought "that the kingdom of God should immediately appear" (Luke 19:11). There was a prevailing expectation among the Jewish people that the Messiah would establish an earthly, political kingdom without delay. Jesus tells this parable precisely to correct that misconception and to teach about the period between His first and second comings.

Historically, it was common for noblemen in Judea to travel to Rome to receive royal authority from the Roman emperor. This historical backdrop would have been familiar to Jesus' audience, making the parable's setting relatable.

Key Themes and Messages

  • The Nobleman as Christ: The "nobleman" in the parable clearly represents Jesus Himself. He is of royal lineage, destined to rule.
  • The "Far Country" as Ascension: His journey "into a far country" symbolizes Jesus' ascension to heaven after His resurrection. It signifies a period of absence from the earth.
  • Receiving a Kingdom: This highlights Jesus' supreme authority and His future, rightful reign. He goes to receive His kingdom, not merely to establish it on earth immediately, but to be fully invested with all power and dominion at the Father's right hand (Ephesians 1:20-21).
  • The "Return": The promise of the nobleman's "return" is a direct reference to the Second Coming of Christ. This crucial element emphasizes that there will be a significant period of time between His departure and His glorious return to establish His visible kingdom on earth.

Linguistic Insights

The Greek word for "nobleman" is eugenes (εὐγενής), meaning "well-born" or "of noble race." This emphasizes the inherent authority and rightful claim of the figure. The term "kingdom" is basileia (βασιλεία), which can refer to a realm, royal power, or the act of reigning. Here, it denotes the sovereign rule and dominion that the nobleman goes to receive.

Practical Application

Luke 19:12, as the introduction to the parable, establishes the framework for Christian living during the "interim" period—the time between Christ's ascension and His return. It teaches believers that while Christ is in heaven, preparing for His full reign, His followers are entrusted with responsibilities. This verse sets the stage for the subsequent verses of the parable, which detail the expectation of faithfulness and productive stewardship while awaiting the Master's return. It calls us to live with an awareness of Christ's ultimate authority and His promised return, motivating us to be diligent and fruitful in His service.

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Cross-References

  • Matthew 25:14 (12 votes)

    For [the kingdom of heaven is] as a man travelling into a far country, [who] called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

  • Matthew 25:30 (12 votes)

    And cast ye the unprofitable servant into outer darkness: there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

  • Luke 19:12 (5 votes)

    He said therefore, A certain nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom, and to return.

  • Luke 19:27 (5 votes)

    But those mine enemies, which would not that I should reign over them, bring hither, and slay [them] before me.

  • John 18:37 (4 votes)

    Pilate therefore said unto him, Art thou a king then? Jesus answered, Thou sayest that I am a king. To this end was I born, and for this cause came I into the world, that I should bear witness unto the truth. Every one that is of the truth heareth my voice.

  • 1 Peter 3:22 (4 votes)

    Who is gone into heaven, and is on the right hand of God; angels and authorities and powers being made subject unto him.

  • Luke 20:9 (4 votes)

    ¶ Then began he to speak to the people this parable; A certain man planted a vineyard, and let it forth to husbandmen, and went into a far country for a long time.