39
"Of course, you realize that if the homeowner had known at what hour the thief was coming, he would not have let him break into his house.
40
Be ready, because the Son of Man will return when you least expect him."
41
Peter asked, "Lord, did you use this illustration just for us or for everyone?"
42
The Lord asked, "Who, then, is the faithful, skilled manager that the master will put in charge of giving the other servants their share of food at the right time?
43
That servant will be blessed if his master finds him doing this job when he comes.
44
I can guarantee this truth: He will put that servant in charge of all his property.
45
On the other hand, that servant may think that his master is taking a long time to come home. The servant may begin to beat the other servants and to eat, drink, and get drunk.
46
His master will return at an unexpected time. Then his master will punish him severely and assign him a place with unfaithful people.
47
"The servant who knew what his master wanted but didn't get ready to do it will receive a hard beating.
48
But the servant who didn't know [what his master wanted] and did things for which he deserved punishment will receive a light beating. A lot will be expected from everyone who has been given a lot. More will be demanded from everyone who has been entrusted with a lot.
49
"I have come to throw fire on the earth. I wish that it had already started!