The phrase “occupy till I come” is found in Luke 19:13, where a nobleman instructs his servants to use their resources wisely while he is away. Biblically, it signifies the call for believers to actively engage in faithful service and stewardship with the gifts and opportunities God has given them until Christ’s return.
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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” in the Bible
The phrase “occupy till I come,” found in Luke 19:13, encapsulates a profound call for believers to engage in diligent stewardship and active participation in God’s mission during the interim period before Christ’s return. This call is anchored in the parable of the ten minas, where the nobleman represents Christ who entrusts His servants—with each being given a measure of resources—to act in faith and productivity while he departs. The underlying principle is that Christians are expected to utilize their God-given gifts and resources to bear fruit, reflecting the teaching found in Matthew 25:14-30 regarding the parable of the talents. This illustrates that faithfulness in small matters can lead to greater responsibilities and rewards in God’s kingdom, as affirmed by Jesus’ instruction in John 15:8 about His followers bearing much fruit as a testament to being His disciples.
Moreover, this command to “occupy” implies not merely passive waiting, but an active and purposeful engagement with the world around us. In 1 Corinthians 3:9, Paul emphasizes that believers are “God’s fellow workers,” thereby inviting them to participate in the divine mission of reconciliation and service. The emphasis is on transformation—both personal and communal—where Christians strive to foster justice, love, and hope in their communities, countering apathy and complacency. This reflective vocation finds resonance within the broader biblical narrative, particularly in passages such as Colossians 3:23-24, which urges believers to work heartily as for the Lord, reinforcing the significance of their labor in the context of Christ’s eventual return. Thus, “occupy till I come” serves as both a solemn responsibility and a hopeful anticipation for believers, encouraging continuous growth, stewardship, and engagement in the work of the Gospel as they await the fulfillment of God’s promises.
The biblical exhortation to “occupy till I come” carries significant weight in terms of the responsibility Christians have in their daily lives and the broader mission of the church. This notion is echoed throughout the New Testament in various forms, emphasizing the imperative for believers to be vigilant and proactive stewards of their faith. In places such as Ephesians 2:10, the concept of being God’s workmanship calls believers to engage in good works that reflect their identity in Christ. Here, the emphasis is on divine purpose and the expectation that believers are meant to contribute positively to their surroundings while embodying the essence of their faith in action.
Furthermore, the anticipation of Christ’s return also informs this engagement. In 2 Peter 3:11-12, believers are encouraged to live holy and godly lives while looking forward to the coming day of God. This idea reinforces the familiarity of the “occupy” theme, underscoring the importance of both personal holiness and missional living. Ultimately, the call to “occupy” can be seen as a reminder that the Christian life is not merely about waiting, but about living out one’s faith through acts of love, service, and witness. By nurturing a heart aligned with God’s mission and actively participating in the transformative work around them, Christians prepare not only for their own accountability upon Christ’s return but also demonstrate the hope and light of the Gospel in a world yearning for redemption. In this way, the phrase invites believers into a dynamic relationship with their faith, urging them toward a collaborative role in God’s overarching narrative of grace and restoration.
Stewardship and Responsibility
The phrase “occupy till I come” emphasizes the importance of stewardship in the life of a believer. It suggests that individuals are entrusted with various gifts, resources, and responsibilities that they are expected to manage wisely until the return of Christ. This stewardship is not merely about maintaining the status quo but actively engaging in productive work that reflects one’s faith and commitment to God. It encourages believers to take initiative, cultivate their talents, and contribute positively to their communities, thereby fulfilling their divine purpose.
Active Engagement in Faith
Another broader meaning of “occupy till I come” is the call for active engagement in one’s faith. This involves not only personal spiritual growth but also participation in the broader mission of the Church. Believers are encouraged to be proactive in sharing the Gospel, serving others, and living out their faith in tangible ways. This active engagement reflects a dynamic relationship with God, where faith is not passive but is expressed through actions that align with His will and purpose.
Hope and Anticipation
The phrase also carries a sense of hope and anticipation for the future. It serves as a reminder that while believers are called to be diligent in their tasks, they are ultimately looking forward to the return of Christ. This hope motivates them to persevere through challenges and remain faithful in their endeavors. The expectation of Christ’s return instills a sense of urgency and purpose in their work, encouraging them to make the most of their time and opportunities in light of eternity.
How to Cultivate Faithful Stewardship in Your Life
Cultivating faithful stewardship in your life is a beautiful journey that begins with recognizing that everything we have—our time, talents, and treasures—ultimately belongs to God. Start by reflecting on how you can use these gifts to serve others and glorify Him. Consider setting aside intentional time for prayer and meditation, asking God to guide your decisions and help you discern where your resources can make the most impact. It’s also important to practice gratitude; regularly acknowledging the blessings in your life can shift your perspective and inspire you to share more generously. Whether it’s volunteering your time, supporting a cause close to your heart, or simply being a good neighbor, remember that stewardship is not just about giving money, but about living a life that reflects Christ’s love and compassion. As you embrace this mindset, you’ll find that stewardship becomes a natural expression of your faith, enriching both your life and the lives of those around you.
Bible References to “Occupy Till I Come”:
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 3:6-12: 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.
Titus 2:11-14: 11 For the grace of God has appeared, bringing salvation for all people,
12 training us to renounce ungodliness and worldly passions, and to live self-controlled, upright, and godly lives in the present age,
13 waiting for our blessed hope, the appearing of the glory of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ,
14 who gave himself for us to redeem us from all lawlessness and to purify for himself a people for his own possession who are zealous for good works.
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.
Matthew 24:45-51: 45 “Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his master has set over his household, to give them their food at the proper time?”
46 Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes.
47 Truly, I say to you, he will set him over all his possessions.
48 But if that wicked servant says to himself, ‘My master is delayed,’
49 and begins to beat his fellow servants and eats and drinks with drunkards,
50 the master of that servant will come on a day when he does not expect him and at an hour he does not know.
51 and will cut him in pieces and put him with the hypocrites. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.
Mark 13:33-37: 33 Be on guard, keep awake. For you do not know when the time will come.
34 It is like a man going on a journey, when he leaves home and puts his servants in charge, each with his work, and commands the doorkeeper to stay awake.
35 Therefore stay awake—for you do not know when the master of the house will come, in the evening, or at midnight, or when the rooster crows, or in the morning—
36 lest he come suddenly and find you asleep.
37 And what I say to you I say to all: Stay awake.
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.
Revelation 3:7-13: 7 “And to the angel of the church in Philadelphia write: ‘The words of the holy one, the true one, who has the key of David, who opens and no one will shut, who shuts and no one opens.
8 “‘I know your works. Behold, I have set before you an open door, which no one is able to shut. I know that you have but little power, and yet you have kept my word and have not denied my name.
9 Behold, I will make those of the synagogue of Satan who say that they are Jews and are not, but lie—behold, I will make them come and bow down before your feet, and they will learn that I have loved you.
10 Because you have kept my word about patient endurance, I will keep you from the hour of trial that is coming on the whole world, to try those who dwell on the earth.
11 I am coming soon. Hold fast what you have, so that no one may seize your crown.
12 The one who conquers, I will make him a pillar in the temple of my God. Never shall he go out of it, and I will write on him the name of my God, and the name of the city of my God, the new Jerusalem, which comes down from my God out of heaven, and my own new name.
13 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.