Definition and Overview:
Stewardship in the biblical context refers to the responsible management and care of resources, talents, and possessions that God has entrusted to individuals. It encompasses the idea that everything belongs to God, and humans are merely caretakers of His creation. Sharing resources is an extension of stewardship, emphasizing the distribution and use of one's blessings to serve others and fulfill God's purposes.

Biblical Foundations:

1. Creation Mandate:
The concept of stewardship is rooted in the Creation narrative. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands humanity, "Be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth." This mandate establishes humans as stewards of God's creation, responsible for its care and management.

2. Parables of Jesus:
Jesus frequently taught about stewardship through parables. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), the master entrusts his servants with varying amounts of money. The servants who wisely invest and multiply their master's resources are commended, while the one who buries his talent is rebuked. This parable illustrates the expectation of faithful and productive stewardship.

3. Old Testament Law:
The Mosaic Law includes provisions for sharing resources, such as the practice of gleaning. Leviticus 19:9-10 instructs, "When you reap the harvest of your land, you are not to reap to the very edges of your field or gather the gleanings of your harvest. You must not strip your vineyard bare or gather its fallen grapes. Leave them for the poor and the foreigner. I am the LORD your God." This law reflects God's concern for the needy and the responsibility of His people to provide for them.

4. Early Church Practices:
The early Christian community exemplified stewardship and sharing. Acts 4:32-35 describes the believers as being "one in heart and soul," with no one claiming private ownership of possessions. Instead, they shared everything they had, ensuring that "there was no needy one among them." This communal sharing was a powerful testimony to their unity and love.

Theological Implications:

1. Ownership and Accountability:
The Bible teaches that God is the ultimate owner of all things. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." As stewards, individuals are accountable to God for how they manage His resources. This accountability is both a privilege and a responsibility, calling for wise and ethical use of all that is entrusted to them.

2. Generosity and Sacrifice:
Stewardship involves a heart of generosity and willingness to sacrifice for the benefit of others. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 encourages believers, "Remember this: Whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows generously will also reap generously. Each one should give what he has decided in his heart to give, not out of regret or compulsion. For God loves a cheerful giver." Generosity reflects God's character and is a means of participating in His work.

3. Eternal Perspective:
Stewardship is guided by an eternal perspective, recognizing that earthly resources are temporary. Jesus taught in Matthew 6:19-21 , "Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moth and rust do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also." This perspective encourages believers to invest in what has lasting value.

Practical Applications:

1. Financial Stewardship:
Christians are called to manage their finances wisely, budgeting, saving, and giving in ways that honor God. This includes tithing, supporting the church, and contributing to charitable causes.

2. Environmental Stewardship:
Caring for the environment is an aspect of stewardship, reflecting respect for God's creation. This involves sustainable practices and advocating for the protection of natural resources.

3. Time and Talents:
Stewardship extends to the use of time and talents. Believers are encouraged to serve in their communities and churches, using their skills and abilities to glorify God and edify others.

4. Hospitality and Community:
Sharing resources includes opening one's home and life to others, practicing hospitality, and building community. Romans 12:13 exhorts, "Share with the saints who are in need. Practice hospitality."

In summary, stewardship and sharing resources are integral to the Christian life, reflecting a commitment to God's ownership, a heart of generosity, and a focus on eternal values.