THE UNRIGHTEOUS STEWARD

LUKE 16:1–12

“The master commended the dishonest manager [steward] because he had acted shrewdly. For the people of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the people of the light”

(Luke 16:8).

Today we consider one of Jesus’ most controversial lessons, the parable of the unrighteous steward. To understand this parable, we must bear in mind that Jesus is speaking to the Pharisees who complained that He associated with “sinners.” Jesus had told them the parables of the lost coin and of the lost sheep to show them that God loves sinners and rejoices when they repent. He had also told them the parable of the Prodigal Son, comparing them with the resentful older brother.

Speaking directly to His disciples, but with the Pharisees within earshot, Jesus tells them a story about a worthless steward who had been squandering his master’s possessions. The master discovered the steward’s dishonesty and was about to fire him, so the steward became concerned about his future. He decided to demand partial payment from all those who owed his master money. Curiously, when the master learned what his steward had done, he praised him for his shrewd action.

Many people misunderstand this parable and think that Jesus condoned unscrupulous behavior. Actually Jesus was commending the steward for planning for his future. That was Jesus’ message to the Pharisees. They were missing the kingdom of God and laying up damnation for themselves. They could learn something from the despised tax collectors, who at least were laying aside money for a rainy day.

Jesus went on to say that those who are faithful in the less significant matters are also faithful in the weightier ones. If we are not faithful in little things like money, then God will not give us true riches. Finally, Jesus said that we learn faithfulness by serving God first and foremost. That way, things like money will not have a strong hold on us.

CORAM DEO

Proverbs 1–3

1 Corinthians 13

When you think no one will ever know, do you find it easy to cheat in little ways in your responsibilities? Read Luke 16:10–13 and then determine your “faithfulness quotient.” If you discover some bad habits at home or on the job, ask the Holy Spirit to transform them into commendable habits.

For further study: Matthew 10:16; 24:36–51; 1 Corinthians 4:1–5; tape #B57INT.70/71

tuesday

september