Read Luke 16
The
parable of the shrewd manager is probably the most difficult parable in Luke to
understand. But its point is clear to
see —be generous and responsible with your resources. The parable centers on a steward who
is accused of wasting the master's goods. This leads the master calling for an
accounting and the steward is fired.
Facing unemployment and having no marketable skills beyond being a
steward, he is in a dilemma, since he does not wish to beg or resort to
demeaning physical labor. He decides on a course of action that will bring him
into his neighbors' good graces. He cuts
the price that the Master is owed in order to remain in the good books of the
debtors. Many commentators believe that
he is cutting his own commission in reducing the price. In this case, it seems that the dishonest
steward has learned something by his failure and comes up with a generous
solution. He has given up his commission
now so that he can receive gain later.
This parable teaches the importance of thinking about how we are using
our resources, especially the long-term benefits of how we are using them. True disciples should apply themselves to
honor and serve God by their use of resources. They should think through their
actions, both short and long term.
Jesus’ teaching
in Luke 16 is briefly interrupted by this remark: “Now the Pharisees, who were
lovers of money, were listening to all these things, and they were scoffing at
Him (v. 14).” Jesus chose to address the Pharisees’ hearts. He knew that the
love of money reflected inner wickedness and lack of submission to God. This
was the real problem. Luke 16 ends with the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus
– yet another warning against greed (v 19-31). The rich man’s greed so consumed
him, that it prevented him from gaining access to eternal life.
Journaling and Prayer
1. What are 2-3 practical applications of the
Parable of the Shrewd Steward (v 1-13) in your life?
2. Re-read Luke 16:31. Then read Romans 1:18-21 and
2:14-16. God reveals Himself to us constantly. Two important ways He does this
are through the Law (both the written law and our consciences) and through
nature. Praise God for supplying us with all we need to come to know Him.
3. Look back at the action steps God gave you on day
thirteen (Luke 10:1-24). Did you follow through? If yes, thank God for helping
you. If not, ask Him if this is still something you should do.
4. Pray for Christians in the marketplace. Ask God
to protect them from greed. Pray that they would recognize that everything they
have comes from God. Pray that they would grow in generosity. Pray that through
this generosity they would lead many people to Jesus.
