Luke 17:7
But which of you, having a servant plowing or feeding cattle, will say unto him by and by, when he is come from the field, Go and sit down to meat?
Luke 17:7
This is a compact lesson in servant leadership and reciprocal dignity. Jesus asks who would expect a servant who has finished work to immediately dine as an honored guest. The cultural expectation is that the servant remains in the background until duties are fulfilled. The point is to illustrate the normal pattern of service in the Kingdom: duty comes first, reward later. Jesus uses this everyday scene to teach about mindset: disciples should not presume entitlement, even after faithful service.
This passage grounds discipleship in countercultural humility and service. It reframes status and reward: faithful service is not to earn immediate praise but to fulfill one’s obligations as servants of God. It calls believers to a posture of readiness, obedience, and patiently waiting for God’s ultimate reward.
Practically, reframe your work-life expectations: do not demand recognition for ordinary responsibilities. In families, model and teach that service—cooking, cleaning, providing for others—belongs to all, not just a “servant.” In workplaces and churches, cultivate a culture where serving others is valued and not exploited as a chance to gain status. Celebrate faithful, behind-the-scenes work.
Cross-References: John 13:12-17; James 4:6-7; Romans 12:11-13; Philippians 2:3-4; 1 Corinthians 9:9-14