Parable Series: The Shrewd Steward (Luke 16:1–13)
“Preparing for Tomorrow with Heaven in View”
The Parable:
A steward is accused of wasting his master’s goods and faces dismissal. To secure his future, he reduces the debts of his master’s clients so that they will welcome him later. Surprisingly, his master commends him, not for dishonesty, but for his shrewdness.
Initial Misunderstanding:
It seems as if Jesus is praising corruption or deceitful business practices.
The Deeper Meaning:
Jesus is not commending dishonesty but wisdom in foresight. The steward recognized the urgency of his situation and acted decisively. The lesson: if worldly people can prepare so carefully for their future, how much more should God’s people prepare for eternity?
What did we learn?
Live with eternity in view.
Steward resources faithfully for Kingdom purposes.
Remember: no one can serve both God and money.
A Prayer
Heavenly Father,
Teach us to live with eternity in view. Help us to be wise stewards of all You have entrusted to us, our time, our talents, and our resources. Guard us from serving wealth or self, and lead us instead to serve You with faithfulness and foresight. May our choices today bear fruit that lasts forever, and may our lives bring glory to Your Kingdom.
In Jesus’ name, Amen.