Let’s explore the concept of “That Servant” as mentioned in Matthew 24 and Luke 12. We’ll look at the Luke account, since it provides more details than the Matthew account. In Luke 12:37-44, we find a passage where Jesus shares a parable in response to inquiries about the signs of His return, often referred to as the parousia or the second coming of Christ. The scripture states:
“37 Blessed are those servants whom the master, when he comes, will find watching. Assuredly, I say to you that he will gird himself and have them sit down to eat, and will come and serve them. 38 And if he should come in the second watch, or come in the third watch, and find them so, blessed are those servants. 39 But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched and not allowed his house to be broken into. 40 Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.”
Here are the key verses:
41 Then Peter said to Him, “Lord, do You speak this parable only to us, or to all people?” 42 And the Lord said, “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household, to give them their portion of food in due season? 43 Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. 44 Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all that he has.”
Matthew states “all his goods.” In verses 45 to 48, he warns that a servant who is unwise and unfaithful will receive punishment, and this punishment includes being thrown into outer darkness where there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth. He concludes in verse 48 with the statement that “to whom much is given, much will be required.”
Regarding the question of who is referred to in verses 42-44 as ‘that faithful and wise steward,’ among various Bible Students there have been suggested four different answers to this question over time, I’m going to add one more to the list.
Let us look closely at the five responses one at a time.
- That Servant stands for the entire Church, or any of its members.
- That Servant is the group of elders that are part of the Church.
- That Servant is recognized as the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, especially in the time of Pastor C.T. Russell.
- That Servant is Pastor C.T. Russell, and
- That Servant is the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
We’re going to consider the pros and cons of each thoughts.
VIEW 1
The first view is that “that servant” refers to the entire church or any of its members. This was C.T. Russell view until 1895. It’s mentioned at least 20 times in the Watch Tower magazines.
Here’s a quote from the Oct/Nov 1881 issue of Zion’s Watch Tower, page 5:
“Who then is that faithful and wise servant whom his Lord hath made ruler over his household,” to give them meat in due season? Is it not that “little flock” of consecrated servants who are faithfully carrying out their consecration vows – the body of Christ – and is not the whole body individually and collectively, giving the meat in due season to the household of faith – the great company of believers?”
The argument supporting “That Servant” as any church member, or collectively, the entire church, is rooted in verse 41. To grasp the strength of this argument, we need to look back at verse 37, which states, “Blessed are those servants (plural) whom the master, when he comes, will find watching.” Verse 38 continues, “if he should come in the second watch or the third.” We won’t delve into the specifics right now, but the common interpretation suggests that if he arrives during the transition between the second and third watches—representing the second and third millennia since his first advent—then those servants (plural) are blessed.
This part of the parable prompts Peter to ask, “I don’t understand, Lord. Are you speaking to us, your apostles, or to everyone? To whom are you referring when you mention those servants?” With the apostles present, if verses 42-44 answer Peter’s question, the reply is essentially, “Who am I talking about? I’ll tell you: Blessed is that servant whom the Lord finds watching.” Whichever servant is vigilant is blessed. The term “that servant” in this parable corresponds to the group of servants mentioned.
If we consider this as an explanation similar to Matthew 13—where “the field is the world”—we relate the explanation to the parable. This is the argument presented in the Watch Tower articles that tackle this from a collective view, asserting that “that servant” could represent any of those who are still watching. The common objection is that the word is singular rather than plural, suggesting this interpretation may not hold.
However, there is solid scriptural precedent for using a singular pronoun or noun in this way. We see this in Revelation 2 and 3, where it states, “to him that overcomes will I give” various rewards. It doesn’t say “to them that overcome,” but rather “to him (singular) that overcomes.” The singular pronoun can describe anyone in the class or group. Therefore, the fact that it uses “servant” in the singular doesn’t inherently prove that “that servant” refers to an individual rather than a collective.
Yet, there’s a further complication in verse 42: “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household?” This raises a more significant objection against the collective interpretation. The term for “household” here refers not just to the home but specifically to the group of domestic servants. This implies that the wise and faithful steward will oversee the collective group of servants.
While verses 37-39 indicate rewards for watching servants, it’s impractical for all those watching to be placed in charge of everyone else, creating a scenario where there are all leaders with no followers. As the saying goes “too many chiefs, not enough Indians”. This inconsistency contradicts the role of that wise and faithful servant over their household. Thus, we believe this is a compelling argument against the notion that “that servant” refers to the collective group or any individual within it.
One potential response to this objection is to broaden the definition of “household” to encompass a “household of faith,” which includes all believers, not just the consecrated. The actions of the domestic servants—serving others—are typically associated with the consecrated. In this view, there is a chief steward alongside other stewards in the household, all engaged in a nurturing role, supporting the argument against the interpretation of the servant as the church or any of its members.
VIEW 2
Now, let’s explore the second view, which suggests that the servant represents the body of elders in the church. There are three main arguments supporting this idea.
First, in verse 42, we read: “Who then is that faithful and wise steward, whom his master will make ruler over his household?” This position of oversight aligns with the role specifically assigned to elders in Acts 20:28. Let’s take a closer look at Acts 20:28: “Take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood.” Here, we see a clear connection between the oversight of the household and that of the servant.
Secondly, the servant is characterized by a particular action: being a watchman. While it’s true that all members of the church are encouraged to be vigilant, this responsibility is especially entrusted to the elders. Hebrews 13:17 states:
“Obey those who rule over you, and be submissive, for they watch out for your souls, as those who must give account. Let them do so with joy and not with grief, for that would be unprofitable for you.”
Lastly, in verse 42, the servant’s role involves feeding. Notably, this feeding pertains mainly to other servants, focusing on caring for them rather than simply providing food. In 1 Peter 5:2-3, this duty is clearly assigned to the elders:
“Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof, not by constraint, but willingly; not for filthy lucre, but of a ready mind; neither as being lords over God’s heritage, but being examples to the flock.”
Therefore, the argument that the servant collectively represents the elders hinges on these three actions, all of which are clearly outlined in scripture.
THE OBJECTION:
The objection to this view is that it risks portraying elders as a clergy class. There is no biblical support in the New Testament for elevating the eldership above others in the church. While they bear a responsibility for the congregation, this does not signify an elevated status; rather, it emphasizes a heightened sense of duty. Ultimately, the core argument against this view is that they are not a separate clergy class.
VIEW 3
The servant referred to is the Watch Tower Society, particularly during the days of Pastor C.T. Russell. One of the strongest supports for this interpretation is that it was a phrase frequently used by Pastor Russell himself—seen in examples like Reprint 3811, Which is the July 15, 1906 issue and very clearly on page Reprint 4562, which is the February 1, 1910 issue, among many others. This indicates that it’s not about an individual but rather the organization serving as the channel. This view also simplifies the idea of extending the authority of that servant throughout the entire period of Laodicea, avoiding the difficult question of how that authority persists after the servant’s death. It suggests a continuity that outlasts the individual’s life.
On the contrary, history tells a different story. The Society that nourished the church at the onset of this period shifted to providing something less than pure sustenance after the death of its founder, Pastor C.T. Russell. During his leadership, he essentially embodied the Watch Tower Bible and Tract Society, equating the two as one.
The third objection is that it’s quite unusual in scripture to use a personal pronoun to refer to an organization. While there are exceptions, applying it in this way is not common, which makes this interpretation seem somewhat weak.
Let’s skip over VIEW 4 and examine VIEW 5, namely that …
That Servant is the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
Now we won’t get into the history of the Society’s views and explanation of “That Servant” since the death of Russell, we’ll just fast forward to 2013, with their current view, but before we go there, let’s go one step behind, to the previous view, prior to 2013, just to show how convoluted their view was.
The interpretation of this idea has become very complicated over the years. Prior to the new understanding that came about in the year 2013, there was a belief that a group known as the “Slave” was, in fact, a collective that provided support to each other. For a long period, it was thought that the “Slave” and the “domestics” as mentioned in the New World Translation were the same group. The 144,000 anointed ones were considered to be the Slave as a whole, but simultaneously each member was seen as a domestic who was responsible for overseeing the entire group. In this understanding, the faithful and discreet Slave symbolized all 144,000 together, while the domestics referred to each individual member in particular. This created the idea that the 144,000 were both helping one another and receiving help in return. It is important to note that this explanation did not really cover the rest of Jehovah’s Witnesses or individuals outside of their belief system.
“If all the anointed as a group, no matter where on earth they live, are members of the slave class, who are the “domestics”? They are the same anointed ones but considered from a different viewpoint-as individuals. Yes, as individuals they would be of the “slave” or they would be “domestics,” depending on whether they were dispensing spiritual food or partaking of it. To illustrate: As recorded at 2 Peter 3:15, 16, the apostle Peter makes reference to Paul’s letters. When reading them, Peter would be as one of the domestics feeding on the spiritual food provided by Paul as a representative of the slave class.” Watchtower 1995 May 15 p.16
The idea that is put forward seems to be confusing and not accurate. In fact, the operations of the Watchtower are different from what is stated. The majority of the 144,000 do not provide guidance to the members since they do not formulate the organization’s doctrines or rules. All decisions regarding what the members are taught are made by the Governing Body. Very few of the Anointed Witnesses actually write articles for the Watchtower or create doctrines. Most articles are written by members who are part of the Other Sheep and these articles are merely approved by the Governing Body.
When the Watchtower mentioned following the “faithful and discreet slave,” the rank and file of Jehovah’s Witnesses interpreted this as obeying the guidelines set by the Governing Body because they are the only leaders of the Organization.
Okay, let’s look at the new interpretation of the “the Faithful and Discreet Slave”. The following is taken from 2012 Annual Meetings – https://www.jw.org/en/jehovahs-witnesses/activities/events/annual-meeting-report-2012/
When Did Jesus Appoint “the Faithful and Discreet Slave” Over His Domestics?
Consider the context of Jesus’ words in Matthew chapter 24. All the verses listed here were to be fulfilled during Christ’s presence,
“the conclusion of the system of things.”—Verse 3.
“The tribulation of those days.”—Verse 29.
“This generation.”—Verse 34.
“That day and hour.”—Verse 36.
The “day your Lord is coming.”—Verse 42.
“At an hour that you do not think to be it, the Son of man is coming.”—Verse 44.
Logically, then, “the faithful and discreet slave” must have appeared after Christ’s presence began in 1914.
Moreover, Jesus indicated that this “slave” would appear during a time when a legitimate question would be: “Who really is the faithful and discreet slave?” Jesus’ apostles had miraculous gifts of holy spirit, so there was scant reason to raise that question in the first century C.E. (1 Corinthians 14:12, 24, 25) Although they were anointed by holy spirit, the apostles and other first-century Christians were not “the faithful and discreet slave” prophesied by Jesus.
It is reasonable to conclude, then, that Jesus appointed “the faithful and discreet slave” over “his domestics” during his presence, “the conclusion of the system of things.”
“Who Really Is the Faithful and Discreet Slave?”
Jesus was referring, not to an individual, but to a composite “slave”—a group working together as one body. Jesus said that the slave (1) is appointed to a supervisory role “over [the master’s] domestics” and (2) gives the domestics spiritual “food at the proper time.”
From 1919 on, there has always been a small group of anointed Christians at the world headquarters of Jehovah’s Witnesses. They have supervised our worldwide preaching work and have been directly involved in preparing and dispensing spiritual food. In recent years, that group has been closely identified with the Governing Body of Jehovah’s Witnesses.
The evidence points to the following conclusion: “The faithful and discreet slave” was appointed over Jesus’ domestics in 1919. That slave is the small, composite group of anointed brothers serving at world headquarters during Christ’s presence who are directly involved in preparing and dispensing spiritual food. When this group work together as the Governing Body, they act as “the faithful and discreet slave.”
Who Are the “Domestics”?
Jesus said that “his domestics” would receive “food at the proper time.” All genuine followers of Jesus are fed by “the faithful and discreet slave.” Therefore, all of Christ’s disciples—both individual anointed Christians and members of the “other sheep”—are “his domestics.”—John 10:16.
After the speaker explained this aspect of Jesus’ prophecy, the audience erupted in sustained applause. Several in attendance later expressed their profound gratitude that Jesus considers them among “his domestics.”
It’s interesting, because this was the same scenario back in 1935, when Rutherford interpreted the Great Crowd as an earthly class, back then as documented by the Watchtower, there were several in attendance who later expressed their profound gratitude that they were among “the great crowd”, a group that would inherit paradise earth.
When Does Jesus Appoint the Slave “Over All His Belongings”?
Jesus said that the “master on arriving” (literally, “having come”) will appoint the slave “over all his belongings.” When does the Master, Jesus, arrive?
The expression translated “on arriving” is a form of the Greek word erʹkho·mai. Verses 42 and 44 of chapter 24 translate a form of erʹkho·mai as “coming.” In those verses, Jesus is referring to his coming as Judge during the great tribulation.—Matthew 24:30; 25:31, 32.
Jesus’ appointment of the “slave” over his “belongings,” then, must also be a future event. He will make that appointment during the great tribulation.
What Are Jesus’ “Belongings”?
Jesus said: “All authority has been given me in heaven and on the earth.” (Matthew 28:18) Jesus’ “belongings” thus include more than just his earthly interests. They include the Messianic Kingdom.—Philippians 2:9-11.
Consequently, Jesus will reward “the faithful and discreet slave” by resurrecting the individual members of that group to heavenly life and by giving them royal authority over all Christ’s belongings in heaven and on earth. This is the same reward promised to all faithful anointed Christians.—Luke 22:28-30; Revelation 20:6.
So the argument is that Matthew 24:45-47 and Luke 12:42-44 refer not to all anointed ones, the 144,000, nor to a group of servants, e.g. the Body of Elders, or to a single servant, but to a distinct class of individuals appointed by Christ, the Governing Body. But what does it matter if these verses apply to one servant or a group? The distinction is as significant as whether we view the Apostles as a fixed group or an expandable one. Some believe that the Lord selected twelve apostles and intended for that number to remain unchanged. Those who hold this view see the teachings of these twelve as God’s message and reject any teachings that conflict with them. On the flip side, others assert that the number of apostles is not fixed and that the Church can appoint additional apostles with equal authority. We believe this idea is fundamentally incorrect and not supported by Scripture. The notion that the servant represents a group that the Church can expand is akin to claiming that the apostles were not a fixed group chosen by the Lord, allowing for anyone to add to their number and be considered equal in authority.
We might try to understand our Lord’s words as referring to a group of people working together as a steward, meaning that a specific number of believers would act as the steward in this parable. However, this interpretation comes with some challenges. For one, if we think of such a group in the Church, it would imply that there is a separate class of leaders, which goes against the idea that everyone in the Church is equal. The Church of Christ is not divided into clergy and regular members; instead, we are all united as one in Christ, with Him as our only Master.
I mean, let’s face it, if the Slave Class was appointed in 1919, who was that group made up of in 1919? Was it the Board of Directors, or was it the Editorial Committee or was it simply Judge Rutherford, who essentially wrote every article, book and booklet? If that’s the case, then Rutherford would be “that Servant”, an individual.
And, if it was Christ who appointed them in 1919, were they appointed for life, or until proven faithful? Who decided that they were a part of this group? Was it a numbered class like the Apostles? Who decided to make appointments to this class as the years went by? Did Jesus whisper in their ears, “choose him”? Or did they like Peter and the others draw straws? After all, if you’re going to make claims for yourselves, you should have scriptural support for everything you say and believe. Simply saying so, doesn’t make it so. But, Witnesses are not allowed to question the edicts of the Governing Body. Doing so is akin to questioning God and Christ.
VIEW 4
Let’s address the view that “That Servant” refers to an individual. I support this view because it clearly highlights the distinction mentioned in verse 42 between the head steward and the under steward. This distinction falls into place seamlessly.
For example. the Lord’s words clearly differentiate between his “household,” referring to his faithful people in general, the “fellow servants” (plural), and “that servant,” (singular) who is specifically identified as the Lord’s agent responsible for providing truth as nourishment to both his “fellow servants” and the “household.” It is recognized that in many Scriptures, the consecrated are addressed individually even when a whole class is intended. For example, in Revelation 3:21, the phrase “to him that overcomes I will grant to sit with me in my throne” actually means “to each one who overcomes,” and so forth.
Concerning the passages that are under consideration, it is argued that if the terms “household” and “fellow servants” were not included, it might not be clear if “that servant” refers to just one individual or all faithful servants. Nevertheless, when “that servant,” “his fellow servants,” and the “household” are all mentioned together and in contrast, it would be an error to misinterpret the intent of the Holy Spirit by confusing what has been distinctly marked. Additionally, it is asserted that applying the term “his household” to Christians who only profess belief would not be accurate since the “meat in due season” is meant only for the Lord’s truth-seeking and watchful people. Therefore, among this group, we need identify the “household” that is to be fed, the “servants” who are tasked with feeding, and “that servant,” through whom our Lord will provide nourishment to “his fellow servants” for the “household.” This individual is thus recognized as a general steward, overseer, and distributor of the resources belonging to the Lord.
We interpret our Lord’s words as referring to a specific steward rather than a group. Here are key points to consider:
No Clerical Class: We cannot view the steward as a distinct clergy because that contradicts the unity of the Church. All members are equal in Christ, with no separate authority. While God may use individuals to convey messages, it does not elevate them above others. For example, Peter used the ‘keys’ at Pentecost and with Cornelius, but he remained a servant, not a leader over others.
Specific Steward: The term “faithful steward” suggests an individual rather than a collective group. The Greek text emphasizes a singular “faithful, wise steward.” If it directly referred to Christ or the entire body, it would be easier to apply. However, since this steward distributes food (truth) to the others, it points to a specific individual.
Role of the Steward: This steward is not a master or dictator but rather a privileged servant. Many may hesitate to take on this role. If the faithful steward is diligent, they will be entrusted with more truth to share, whereas unfaithfulness would lead to someone else taking over their responsibilities.
Ruler Over Goods: The phrase “He shall make him ruler over all his goods” should not be seen as implying future glory, but rather as a broader role in managing the truths that need to be shared. A vigilant, humble, and faithful steward will continue to serve as the channel for Present Truth during the harvest time until it concludes.
Now, Bible Students believe that C.T. Russell filled that role of “That Servant”. Some will argue if that Servant serves as the channel for Bible Truths during the harvest time until it concludes, how is it that the Harvest continues, but That Servant has been dead for 110 years?
Let’s look at Hebrews 11:4
“By faith Abel offered to God a more acceptable sacrifice than Cain, through which he was commended as righteous, God commending him by accepting his gifts. And through his faith, though he died, he still speaks” (ESV)
Here, “speaks” is not a literal voice from the dead, but a testimonial — Abel’s life of faith continues to bear witness to God’s righteousness and the value of obedience. His example is part of the “cloud of witnesses” in Hebrews 12:1, urging believers to live faithfully. This is why the Bible calls the saints of old “witnesses” — their testimony remains active in the life of the Church.
So, the fact that Russell is dead but still alive is not about supernatural voices or visions, but about the enduring impact of his faith and teachings. His writings continue to instruct, encourage, and challenge believers.
I believe Jesus made it clear that He plans to choose a special servant during His Second Coming to give the right guidance for His followers. At the same time, He gives people the choice to disagree with this plan and look for other options if they want.
God didn’t reveal all the details about the end of the Age, even to His “wise and faithful servant.” If He had revealed everything, it might have weakened the challenging test He planned to establish once “that servant” was removed from the situation.
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