“Occupy Till I Come” is a phrase derived from Luke 19:13, where Jesus instructs His followers to be industrious and engage in productive work while awaiting His return. It emphasizes faithful stewardship and active participation in spreading the Gospel and fulfilling God’s purposes until Christ’s second coming.
Scripture
11 As they heard these things, he proceeded to tell a parable, because he was near to Jerusalem, and because they supposed that the kingdom of God was to appear immediately.
He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return.
13 Calling ten of his servants, he gave them ten minas, and said to them, ‘Engage in business until I come.’
14 But his citizens hated him and sent a delegation after him, saying, ‘We do not want this man to reign over us.’
15 When he returned, having received the kingdom, he ordered these servants to whom he had given the money to be called to him, that he might know what they had gained by doing business.
19 He said therefore, “A nobleman went into a far country to receive for himself a kingdom and then return.
17 And he said to him, ‘Well done, good servant! Because you have been faithful in a very little, you shall have authority over ten cities.’
18 And the second came, saying, ‘Lord, your mina has made five minas.’
19 He said to him, ‘And you are to be over five cities.’
20 Then another came, saying, ‘Lord, here is your mina, which I kept laid away in a handkerchief;
21 for I was afraid of you, because you are a severe man. You take what you did not deposit, and reap what you did not sow.’
22 He said to him, ‘I will condemn you with your own words, you wicked servant! You knew that I was a severe man, taking what I did not deposit and reaping what I did not sow.
23 Why then did you not put my money in the bank, and at my coming I might have collected it with interest?’
24 And he said to those who stood by, ‘Take the mina from him, and give it to the one who has the ten minas.’
25 ‘And they said to him, “Lord, he has ten minas!”‘
26 ‘I tell you that to everyone who has, more will be given, but from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.’
27 But as for these enemies of mine, who did not want me to reign over them, bring them here and slaughter them before me.’”
“Occupy Till I Come” Meaning Explained in the Bible
The phrase “Occupy Till I Come” from Luke 19:13 serves as a profound call to believers to actively engage in their spiritual responsibilities while anticipating the return of Jesus Christ. The parable that precedes this statement illustrates the importance of investing the resources and gifts God has given to each believer. In the parable, a nobleman entrusts his servants with ten pounds to manage until his return, symbolizing the expectation that his servants will use their abilities to produce a return. This theme of stewardship is reinforced throughout Scripture, as seen in passages like Matthew 25:14-30 (the Parable of the Talents) and 1 Peter 4:10, where believers are reminded that they have received gifts to serve others, ultimately glorifying God.
“Occupy Till I Come” signifies an active rather than passive faith. It urges Christians not to await Christ’s return idly, but to live out their faith by engaging in good works, evangelism, and community service (Ephesians 2:10). This active engagement reflects the heart of the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20), calling Christians to make disciples of all nations. In doing so, they contribute to the Kingdom of God, embodying the teachings of Jesus and demonstrating His love to the world. Thus, the phrase encapsulates a holistic view of faith that interweaves the anticipation of Christ’s return with a vigorous commitment to live out the values of the Kingdom in the present, echoing the sentiments found in Colossians 3:23-24, where believers are encouraged to work heartily, as serving the Lord rather than men.
The concept of “Occupy Till I Come” extends beyond mere stewardship into a broader theological understanding of the believer’s journey. It emphasizes an active discipleship that grows in grace and knowledge, as echoed in Paul’s exhortation to Timothy to “fan into flame the gift of God” (2 Timothy 1:6). This active engagement signifies that every believer is called not only to maintain their faith but to enhance and multiply it, reflecting the spirit of diligence and growth that characterizes a vibrant relationship with God. In worship, prayer, and studying the Word, believers participate in the divine process of sanctification, which prepares them for His return while concurrently benefiting the community around them.
Moreover, the ideal of occupying until Christ’s return permeates the New Testament teachings on the Church as the body of Christ. In Romans 12, Paul elaborates on the various gifts and functions within the church body, each member tasked with performing their role effectively to strengthen the collective. This service is vital in expressing the essence of love as described in 1 Corinthians 13, where actions are driven by altruistic intentions rather than self-interest. Hence, “Occupy Till I Come” not only signifies individual responsibility but also underscores the necessity of community engagement and mutual support within the body of Christ, collectively awaiting the return of their Savior while actively embodying His mission on earth. This expectation cultivates a sense of urgency and purpose, motivating believers to shine their light in a world often clouded by darkness.
Stewardship of Gifts and Resources
The phrase “Occupy Till I Come” emphasizes the importance of being responsible stewards of the gifts and resources entrusted to us. In a broader sense, it calls for individuals to actively engage in their God-given talents and abilities, using them to contribute positively to their communities and the world. This stewardship is not merely about maintaining what one has but involves actively growing and multiplying those resources for the benefit of others and the glory of God.
Active Engagement in the World
Another interpretation of “Occupy Till I Come” is the call for believers to be actively engaged in the world around them. This means participating in societal, cultural, and spiritual matters, influencing them in a way that reflects Christian values. It encourages believers to take initiative, be proactive in their faith, and work towards the betterment of society while awaiting the return of Christ. This engagement is seen as a form of witness, demonstrating the love and truth of the Gospel in everyday life.
Hopeful Anticipation of Christ’s Return
The phrase also carries a message of hopeful anticipation regarding the return of Christ. It serves as a reminder that while believers are called to be active and productive in their lives, they should do so with the understanding that their efforts are ultimately in service to a greater purpose. This anticipation fosters a sense of urgency and purpose in their actions, motivating them to live out their faith with diligence and commitment, knowing that their work has eternal significance.
How to Live Faithfully and Serve Actively as a Christian
Living faithfully and serving actively as a Christian is a beautiful journey that intertwines our personal relationship with God and our commitment to others. Start by nurturing your faith through daily prayer and scripture reading; these practices ground you in God’s word and help you discern His will for your life. Look for opportunities to serve in your community—whether it’s volunteering at a local shelter, helping a neighbor in need, or simply offering a listening ear to someone who is struggling. Remember, service doesn’t always have to be grand; even small acts of kindness can reflect Christ’s love. Surround yourself with a supportive church community that encourages you to grow and hold you accountable. As you step out in faith, trust that God will equip you with the strength and wisdom you need to make a difference, and let your actions be a testament to the love and grace you’ve received.
Bible References to “Occupy Till I Come” Meaning:
Matthew 25:14-30: 14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property.
15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away.
16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more.
17 So also he who had received the two talents made two talents more.
18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master’s money.
19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them.
20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’
21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’
22 And he also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed,
23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’
24 He also who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed,
25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’
26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed?
27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest.
28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents.
29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.
30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
1 Corinthians 4:1-5: 1 This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.
2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found trustworthy.
3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself.
4 For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me.
5 Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God.
Romans 12:6-8: 6 Having gifts that differ according to the grace given to us, let us use them: if prophecy, in proportion to our faith;
7 if service, in our serving; the one who teaches, in his teaching;
8 the one who exhorts, in his exhortation; the one who contributes, in generosity; the one who leads, with zeal; the one who does acts of mercy, with cheerfulness.
1 Peter 4:10-11: 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace:
11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen.
Ephesians 4:11-16: 11 And he gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers,
12 to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ,
13 until we all attain to the unity of the faith and of the knowledge of the Son of God, to mature manhood, to the measure of the stature of the fullness of Christ,
14 so that we may no longer be children, tossed to and fro by the waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by human cunning, by craftiness in deceitful schemes.
15 Rather, speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in every way into him who is the head, into Christ.
16 from whom the whole body, joined and held together by every joint with which it is equipped, when each part is working properly, makes the body grow so that it builds itself up in love.
Colossians 3:23-24: 23 Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men,
24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ.
1 Thessalonians 4:11-12: 11 and to aspire to live quietly, and to mind your own affairs, and to work with your hands, as we instructed you,
12 so that you may walk properly before outsiders and be dependent on no one.
2 Thessalonians 3:6-13: 6 Now we command you, brothers, in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, that you keep away from any brother who is walking in idleness and not in accord with the tradition that you received from us.
7 For you yourselves know how you ought to imitate us, because we were not idle when we were with you,
8 nor did we eat anyone’s bread without paying for it, but with toil and labor we worked night and day, that we might not be a burden to any of you.
9 It was not because we do not have that right, but to give you in ourselves an example to imitate.
10 For even when we were with you, we would give you this command: If anyone is not willing to work, let him not eat.
11 For we hear that some among you walk in idleness, not busy at work, but busybodies.
12 Now such persons we command and encourage in the Lord Jesus Christ to do their work quietly and to earn their own living.
13 As for you, brothers, do not grow weary in doing good.
1 Timothy 6:17-19: 17 As for the rich in this present age, charge them not to be haughty, nor to set their hopes on the uncertainty of riches, but on God, who richly provides us with everything to enjoy.
18 They are to do good, to be rich in good works, to be generous and ready to share,
19 storing up treasure for themselves as a good foundation for the future, so that they may take hold of that which is truly life.
Titus 3:1-8: 1 Remind them to be submissive to rulers and authorities, to be obedient, to be ready for every good work,
2 to speak evil of no one, to avoid quarreling, to be gentle, and to show perfect courtesy toward all people.
3 For we ourselves were once foolish, disobedient, led astray, slaves to various passions and pleasures, passing our days in malice and envy, hated by others and hating one another.
4 But when the goodness and loving kindness of God our Savior appeared,
5 he saved us, not because of works done by us in righteousness, but according to his own mercy, by the washing of regeneration and renewal of the Holy Spirit,
6 whom he poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior,
7 so that being justified by his grace we might become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.
8 The saying is trustworthy, and I want you to insist on these things, so that those who have believed in God may be careful to devote themselves to good works. These things are excellent and profitable for people.
James 2:14-26: 14 What good is it, my brothers, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can that faith save him?
15 If a brother or sister is poorly clothed and lacking in daily food,
16 and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, be warmed and filled,” without giving them the things needed for the body, what good is that?
17 So also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.
18 But someone will say, “You have faith and I have works.” Show me your faith apart from your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.
19 You believe that God is one; you do well. Even the demons believe—and shudder.
20 Do you want to be shown, you foolish person, that faith apart from works is useless?
21 Was not Abraham our father justified by works when he offered up his son Isaac on the altar?
22 You see that faith was active along with his works, and faith was completed by his works;
23 and the Scripture was fulfilled that says, “Abraham believed God, and it was counted to him as righteousness”—and he was called a friend of God.
24 You see that a person is justified by works and not by faith alone.
25 And in the same way was not also Rahab the prostitute justified by works when she received the messengers and sent them out by another way?
26 For as the body apart from the spirit is dead, so also faith apart from works is dead.
Revelation 2:25-29: 25 Only hold fast what you have until I come.
26 The one who conquers and who keeps my works until the end, to him I will give authority over the nations,
27 and he will rule them with a rod of iron, as when earthen pots are broken in pieces, even as I myself have received authority from my Father.
28 And I will give him the morning star.
29 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Spirit says to the churches.
Rev. François Dupont is a dedicated church minister with a wealth of experience in serving spiritual communities. With a calm and serene demeanor, he has been devoted to sharing the message of love, compassion, and tolerance for over two decades. Through his thoughtful sermons, compassionate counseling, and unwavering support, Rev. Dupont has touched the lives of countless individuals, allowing them to find solace and strength during difficult times. His serene presence and deep understanding of the human condition make him a trusted guide for those seeking spiritual nourishment and guidance.