John Calvin Commentary Matthew 24:45

"Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath set over his household, to give them their food in due season?" — Matthew 24:45 (ASV)

Who is the faithful and wise servant? This passage is explained more distinctly by Luke, who includes Peter’s question, which led to a new parable. After Christ declared that the suddenness and uncertainty of His coming led to such danger as left no room for sloth, Peter asked if this doctrine was general, or if it belonged to the twelve alone.

For the disciples—as we have previously seen—were always accustomed to thinking that they were unjustly treated unless they were exempted from the common lot and greatly excelled all others. When our Lord now describes to them a condition that is far from pleasant or desirable, they look around them on every side, like astonished people.

But the purpose of Christ’s reply is to show that if each of the common people ought to watch, it is much less tolerable that the apostles should be asleep.

Just as Christ had previously exhorted the entire household generally to watch for His coming, so now He demands extraordinary care from the leading servants. These servants had been appointed over others to point out, by their example, the path of sobriety, watchfulness, and strict temperance. By these words He reminds them that they were not elevated to high rank to indulge in ease, indolence, and pleasure. Instead, the higher the rank of honor they had obtained, the heavier the burden laid on them. Therefore, He declares that it is especially demanded of such people that they exercise fidelity and wisdom.

Let all who are called to an honorable office learn from this that they are all the more strongly bound not only to perform their labor faithfully but also to strive with their utmost zeal and diligence to fulfill their duty. For while it is enough for ordinary servants to complete their daily work, stewards, whose office includes the care of the entire household, ought to go much further.

Otherwise, Christ charges them with ingratitude because, although they have been chosen before others, they do not live up to their honor. For why else does our Lord prefer them to the rest, if not so that they may excel all by extraordinary fidelity and wisdom?

Indeed, all are commanded, without exception, to be sober and to pay close attention. However, drowsiness would be particularly disgraceful and inexcusable in pastors. He then even offers the hope of a reward to encourage them to diligence.