2 Tim 2:15 "Study to shew thyself approved unto God, a workman that needeth not to be ashamed, rightly dividing the word of truth."
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PARABLE OF THE UNJUST STEWARD – WORLDLY WISDOM?
THURSDAY, JUNE 25
Luke 16:1-12
Memory verse: Luke 16:8
“…for the children of this world
are in their generation
wiser than the children of light.”
PARABLE OF THE UNJUST STEWARD – WORLDLY WISDOM?
The Parable of the Unjust Steward has been a problem for some because it appears as if Christ was commending the unjust nature of the steward in this parable. This conclusion is incorrect. The basic understanding of biblical parables is that Christ was not commending nor condemning the ethics depicted in the parables. Parables describe daily life experiences in Jesus’ time that He used to teach a spiritual truth.
The Parable of the Unjust Steward is a parable of a steward who knew he was about to be fired. He reasoned within himself, carnally, that he could not dig and was too ashamed to beg after losing his job. He did something commonly found in societies throughout the ages. While still employed, he reduced the debt of his lord’s debtors. By doing them this favour, he won “friends” whom he could turn to for favours after he became unemployed.
The steward thought of his future and did something in the present to ensure that his future was taken care of. He used his power and the material resources for personal benefit. The lord (not Jesus) of the unjust steward in the parable commended the unjust steward after he found out what the steward had done. He could reduce his lord’s debt at will while in employment. Luke 16:8: “And the lord commended the unjust steward, because he had done wisely: for the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light.” The second half of this verse is the application.
Jesus taught His disciples a very important truth regarding material possessions. Material possessions have been the foundation of man’s trust and confidence in life. The more one has, the more assured his future is, for himself and his loved ones. Therefore, hoarding things and feeling safe had been every disciple’s way of life. After salvation, they need to use their possessions differently. This parable teaches this truth. Learn from worldly wisdom!
THOUGHT: Do I have a godly relationship with my possessions?
PRAYER: Heavenly Father, help me to use things, and not let things use me, in Jesus’ Name I pray. Amen.