What can we learn about stewardship from the manager's actions in Luke 16:6? Setting the Scene Jesus tells the parable of the dishonest manager to His disciples. In Luke 16:6 the manager, facing dismissal, renegotiates a debtor’s bill: “‘A hundred measures of olive oil,’ he replied. ‘Take your bill,’ said the manager, ‘sit down quickly, and write fifty.’”. Though the man’s motives were flawed, Jesus uses his actions to teach kingdom-minded stewardship. Key Observations from Verse 6 • The manager knows the exact amount owed—he has kept records. • He acts “quickly”; time matters. • He leverages his authority over accounts while he still can. • His move creates goodwill with the debtor, hoping for future help. Stewardship Principles Highlighted • Accurate oversight – Knowing the details of what we oversee reflects diligence (cf. Proverbs 27:23). • Resourceful problem-solving – He identifies a solution within existing constraints rather than freezing in crisis. • Sense of urgency – “Sit down quickly” signals that faithful stewards don’t procrastinate (cf. Ephesians 5:15-16). • Future-oriented planning – Though worldly, his foresight mirrors the eternal perspective believers need (Luke 16:9). • Accountability is inevitable – A coming audit drove his behavior; believers face Christ’s judgment seat (2 Corinthians 5:10). What Stewardship Is — and Is Not • Scripture never endorses his dishonesty; rather, it commends his shrewd initiative (Luke 16:8). • True stewardship marries ingenuity with integrity: – “Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.” (1 Corinthians 4:2) Practical Takeaways for Today • Keep clear, honest records of finances, time, and talents. • Act promptly on opportunities to use resources for God’s glory. • Plan with eternity in view—invest in people and gospel work that outlast this life. • Cultivate relationships marked by generosity; blessings often flow through trusted connections (Proverbs 11:25). Supporting Scriptures • Proverbs 13:4—diligence versus laziness. • Colossians 3:23—“Whatever you do, work at it with your whole being…” • Matthew 25:14-30—faithful and unfaithful servants illustrate stewardship’s eternal stakes. Closing Insight Luke 16:6 shows a manager who, even in failure, demonstrates urgency, resourcefulness, and forward thinking. When these qualities are joined to wholehearted faithfulness, they form the biblical portrait of a steward who hears, “Well done, good and faithful servant.” |
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