Luke 17:7-9 Explained: The Nature of Humble Service

Luke 17:7-9

7 But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say to him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?

8 And will not rather say to him, Make ready with which I may sup, and gird yourself, and serve me, till I have eaten and drunken; and afterward you shall eat and drink?

9 Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not.

Luke 17:7-9 beautifully illustrates the nature of devoted service, particularly in the context of our relationship with God, emphasizing humble obedience without expectation of special thanks, as it is simply the fulfillment of duty14LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 6.

Let's explore this passage in detail:

The Scenario of the Servant's Duty Luke 17:7-8

The verses begin by painting a picture of a master and his servant. Imagine a master who has a servant tending to the fields or caring for cattle. When the servant returns from his labor, the master does not immediately invite him to eat and rest. Instead, the master would expect the servant to continue serving him first, preparing his supper, girding himself, and waiting on his master until the master has eaten and drunk. Only "afterward" would the servant himself eat and drink Luke 17:7-814LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 6. This illustrates the primary responsibility and hierarchical expectation in such a relationship.

The Master's Expectation and the Servant's Unprofitableness Luke 17:9

The crucial question posed in verse 9 is, "Does he thank that servant because he did the things that were commanded him? I trow not" Luke 17:9KJV — Luke 17:9+1. The answer is implied: no, the master does not thank him. This is not because the master is unkind, but because the servant has simply performed his expected duties. As Luke 17:10 further explains, "So likewise you, when you shall have done all those things which are commanded you, say, We are unprofitable servants: we have done that which was our duty to do" Luke 17:1014LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 6.

This parable teaches us profound lessons about our service to God:

• Humble Obedience: Our service to God should be characterized by humility and a willingness to perform all duties without seeking personal glorification or special recognition7LtMs, Ms 7, 1891, par. 12+1. We are to be "vessels fit for the Master's use"ST May 19, 1890, par. 3.

• Fulfillment of Duty: Doing what God commands is our duty as His servants. It is not an act that earns us favor or special thanks in the sense of going above and beyond what is expected. This doesn't mean God doesn't appreciate our service, but it resets our perspective on our role14LtMs, Ms 87, 1899, par. 6+1.

• God is Not a "Hard Master": Some may mistakenly perceive God as a "hard master" because He claims our possessions and serviceCOL 362.3+3. However, this charge is false because all things are already His, both by creation and by redemption7MR 305.1 Chronicles 29:14,COL 362.3+3. All blessings come to us "stamped with the cross of Calvary"RH December 14, 1886, par. 8+2.

• Undivided Devotion: The principle that "no man can serve two masters" is fundamental to this understanding Matthew 6:249LtMs, Ms 43a, 1894, par. 22+9. Our loyalty must be solely to God, committing our hearts entirely to Him and His will, rather than being swayed by worldly desires or "mammon"TM 159.2+4.

• Imitating Christ's Spirit: We are to imitate the spirit and temper of Christ in our service, acting with obedience to God, regard for His glory, and for the good of othersARSH June 4, 1857, page 33.10. We learn from Him to be meek and lowly in heart Matthew 11:2914LtMs, Lt 178, 1899, par. 17+1.

• Diligence and Faithfulness: God calls for energetic, persevering, and faithful servants who listen to His words and proclaim them to the people2T 549.2. Individuals like Daniel, Elisha, and Paul exemplify diligent and faithful service, fulfilling humble duties without hesitationPK 545.2+4.

In essence, Luke 17:7-9 coupled with the surrounding context, gently reminds us that our service to the Lord is a privilege and a duty. It calls us to wholeheartedly commit to His work, not for commendation, but out of love and obedience, understanding that all good things come from Him, and our very lives are HisGCDB February 5, 1893, page 137.5+1.