What does Luke 16:9 teach about the temporary nature of earthly possessions? The Verse at a Glance “ And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of worldly wealth, so that when it is gone, they will welcome you into eternal dwellings.” (Luke 16:9) “When It Is Gone” — Earthly Wealth Has an Expiration Date • Jesus speaks of wealth in the past tense: “when it is gone,” not “if it is gone.” • Possessions are called “worldly” (literally “unrighteous” or “of this age”)—things tied to a fallen system that will not last. • The word choice highlights a certainty: every coin, house, and portfolio will one day evaporate, whether through decay, loss, death, or Christ’s return. • Because wealth is temporary, clinging to it is shortsighted; using it with eternity in view is wise. Stewarding the Temporary for the Eternal • Wealth is a tool, not a treasure. • Jesus invites believers to convert fading assets into lasting impact—“make friends” points to using resources to bless people who will share eternity with us. • Eternal dwellings are permanent; investments in people’s spiritual good pay dividends forever (cf. 1 Timothy 6:18–19). • The verse affirms that material things perish, but the souls reached through generosity endure. Supporting Scriptures: The Bible’s Unified Witness • Matthew 6:19–21 — “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven… For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” • Proverbs 23:4–5 — “When you set your eyes on wealth, it is gone, for suddenly it sprouts wings, flying off like an eagle.” • James 1:10–11 — The rich man “will pass away like a wildflower.” • 2 Corinthians 4:18 — “What is seen is temporary, but what is unseen is eternal.” • 1 Timothy 6:17 – 19 — Command the rich “not to set their hope on the uncertainty of riches… so that they may lay hold of what is truly life.” Practical Takeaways for Today • Hold possessions loosely; they are on loan from God and will not follow you into heaven. • Prioritize giving that advances the gospel and serves people—these are returns the market cannot crash. • Evaluate spending habits: do they echo a belief that eternity is real and near? • Cultivate relationships with the resources God entrusts to you; people, not things, will greet you in eternity. |
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