What does "sons of this age" imply about earthly priorities and values? Setting of the Phrase Luke 16:8: “The master commended the dishonest manager because he had acted shrewdly. For the sons of this age are more shrewd in dealing with their own kind than are the sons of light.” Defining “Sons of This Age” • A Hebrew-style expression meaning “people who belong to this present world order.” • In Luke 20:34 Jesus uses the same phrase to describe those whose horizons are limited to this life. • Scripturally, they are those who have not been transferred “from the domain of darkness” to the kingdom of God’s Son (Colossians 1:13). Earthly Priorities Highlighted by the Expression • Temporal focus: what can be secured or enjoyed now (cf. Matthew 6:19). • Horizontal relationships: navigating social networks for immediate advantage. • Survival and self-promotion: maximizing comfort, status, and resources while time and opportunity last. Values That Drive the Sons of This Age • Pragmatism over principle—success often trumps honesty (Luke 16:1-8). • Material accumulation—treasure stored on earth is assumed to be the ultimate security (Matthew 6:24). • Short-sighted shrewdness—keen insight into markets, trends, and people, yet a blindness to eternal outcomes (1 Corinthians 2:14). • Relativistic ethics—right and wrong flex to accommodate profit or reputation (Proverbs 14:12). Contrast With Kingdom-Minded Living • Sons of light weigh decisions against eternity (2 Corinthians 4:18). • They invest in people and gospel purposes, “laying up treasure in heaven” (Matthew 6:20). • Their shrewdness is sanctified—wise as serpents yet harmless as doves (Matthew 10:16), stewarding resources for redemptive ends. • Their identity and citizenship are “in heaven” (Philippians 3:20), redefining success and security. Take-Away Applications • Recognize how easily daily decisions can default to “this age” calculations—budgeting, scheduling, networking. • Evaluate motives: Am I seeking maximum earthly gain, or maximum Kingdom impact? • Leverage the same diligence and creativity seen in the “sons of this age,” but do it in service of eternal goals (Luke 16:9). |
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