Faithful, Sensible Servants

“A faithful, sensible servant is one to whom the master can give the responsibility of managing his other household servants and feeding them. [Matthew 24.45]

Discipleship is the responsibility of helping Jesus' other followers to help other followers.

In the context of Matthew 24.45, we find that Jesus is encouraging His followers to "be ready." The prudence of "watching and waiting" then includes helping others do the same.

What the faithful, sensible servant should actually be doing would be wise to know then! What did Jesus mean when He spoke of managing His other household servants and feeding them? It means to help Jesus' followers help others follow Jesus?

A relationship with God involves some very basic elements. The first of those elements is God's Word. To know God is to know His Word. This includes the Bible as a book but cannot be separated from Jesus Christ. A purely academic knowledge of the Bible is not enough. One must know Jesus and remain mindful that Jesus said all the scriptures point to Himself.

A relationship with God also involves prayer. As God speaks to us through His Word, it is appropriate for us to speak in response. Prayer is conversation with God. While this conversation may indeed be casual (and should be at times), we must remain aware that God is always "on mission" and so, as His servants, we are always "on mission." Prayer is where strategy is discussed. This may involve asking, repenting, interceding, or worship.

Obviously, there are numerous other elements relevant to God's Word and prayer that are necessary, but these two are the main components. If we learn these two and teach others to do the same, we are well on our way to being faithful, sensible servants.

Discipleship is not difficult, but it is a discipline! I like the NLT's use of the words, "faithful" and "sensible" to describe what God desires in His servants. I am glad He didn't require us to be perfect and intelligent. "Faithful" means disciplined to 'do the work.' "Sensible" means having a basis of the Word and prayer from which to make decisions. It's not rocket science.

Father, may we be found faithful and sensible servants in the task of making other faithful and sensible servants!