Bible Strands
Matthew 25:19
After a long time the master of those servants returned and settled accounts with them.
Berean Standard Bible
Follow its threads on the canvas →
Study note
Setting — The master returns to his household after a prolonged absence to settle accounts with his three servants, preceding their individual reports on what they did with his property.
The words — The Greek phrase πολὺν χρόνον (polun chronon) literally means "much time" or "a long time," emphasizing the extended delay before the master's return.
The thread — This accounting motif echoes the evaluation of works at the judgment seat of Christ in 2 Corinthians 5:10 and the testing of earthly materials in 1 Corinthians 3:12.
Why it lands — The text demands that stewards recognize their temporary management of entrusted resources will eventually require a direct reckoning with the owner.
Drafted by a language model from the text, its original words and its cross-references, then checked against them. It can still be wrong: open the verse in the app to report it.
The Greek words
King James Version
After a long time the lord of those servants cometh, and reckoneth with them.
Cross-references
- 1 Corinthians 3:12 If anyone builds on this foundation using gold, silver, precious stones, wood, hay, or straw,
- 2 Corinthians 5:10 For we must all appear before the judgment seat of Christ, that each one may receive his due for the things done in the body, whether good or bad.
- Romans 14:7 For none of us lives to himself alone, and none of us dies to himself alone.
- Matthew 18:23 Because of this, the kingdom of heaven is like a king who wanted to settle accounts with his servants.
- Luke 16:1 Jesus also said to His disciples, “There was a rich man whose manager was accused of wasting his possessions.
- Matthew 24:48 But suppose that servant is wicked and says in his heart, ‘My master will be away a long time.’
- Matthew 25:5 When the bridegroom was delayed, they all became drowsy and fell asleep.
- Luke 16:19 Now there was a rich man dressed in purple and fine linen, who lived each day in joyous splendor.
- James 3:1 Not many of you should become teachers, my brothers, because you know that we who teach will be judged more strictly.