Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 19:13

"And he called ten servants of his, and gave them ten pounds, and said unto them, Trade ye [herewith] till I come." — Luke 19:13 (ASV)

The historical background for the parable was the visit of Archelaus, son of Herod the Great, to Rome to secure permission to reign as a so-called client king over a Roman territory. This petition was opposed by a delegation of Archelaus’s own subjects. Similarly, Jesus has gone to the heavenly seat of authority till the time for his return. In the meantime, he has been rejected by those who should serve him as his subjects (v.14).

The money each servant received was worth about three months’ wages.

Their responsibility was to “put this money to work” in business, in trading, or by investment.

The owner ponders what steps he should take. The expression “whom I love” (GK 28) must be understood with respect to its meaning in ancient Near Eastern family relationships. As a synonym for “only and only,” it defines the unique status of the person as a beloved only child (cf. Lk 7:12). The idea expressed here is the same as is used by Abraham and Isaac (Genesis 22:2), by God at Jesus’ baptism (3:22), and by God at the Transfiguration (Matthew 17:15).