Definition: And the second came, saying, Lord, thy pound hath gained five pounds.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Luke 19:18. It’s a really interesting and slightly surprising statement! Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: A wealthy man, who was already rich, suddenly found his money had grown by five pounds (which is roughly $10 US dollars). What it's saying about the man: It highlights a shift in perspective: This verse isn’t just about money. It shows that even someone with significant wealth can experience unexpected good fortune. It points to a moment of blessing or gratitude: The man is reacting with surprise and perhaps a bit of joy at this increase. It suggests he might be feeling grateful for his blessings, even if they aren't as much as he thought. Why it’s significant in the story: This verse sets up a crucial part of Jesus’ parable about the Pharisee and the tax collector (Luke 19:1-9). Jesus uses this example to illustrate that true wealth isn’t just about money, but also about generosity, love, and humility. The man's reaction shows that genuine wealth comes from a generous heart. In essence, it’s a reminder that blessings can come unexpectedly and that gratitude is important, even when things seem good. --- Do you want to explore this verse further? Would you like me to: Explain the parable in more detail? Discuss the underlying message of the story?