The Parable of the Unjust Steward: Understanding True Stewardship

Executive Summary ✨

Luke 16 presents profound teachings on stewardship, responsibility, and the proper use of earthly possessions in light of eternity. The parable of the unjust steward challenges us to be shrewd in managing what God has entrusted to us, not for selfish gain, but for eternal rewards. Then comes the jarring statement on serving two masters. Finally, the poignant narrative of the rich man and Lazarus vividly illustrates the eternal consequences of neglecting the poor and prioritizing worldly comfort. This chapter emphasizes the importance of using wealth wisely, prioritizing spiritual riches over material possessions, and demonstrating compassion towards those in need. The core message resonates deeply within Coptic Orthodox tradition: to live a life of repentance, charity, and faithful stewardship, preparing for the judgment to come. Ultimately, **understanding true stewardship** transforms our perspective on earthly possessions.

Luke 16, a cornerstone of Christ’s teachings, dives into the intricate relationship between wealth, responsibility, and eternal life. It challenges the listener – and the modern reader – to re-evaluate their priorities and embrace a life centered on God rather than material possessions. This chapter, filled with parables and stark contrasts, forces us to confront the question: are we truly stewards of God’s gifts, or merely consumers in a fleeting world? We must focus on **understanding true stewardship**.

Commentary Sections 📖

Luke 16:1-2 (KJV)

And he said also unto his disciples, There was a certain rich man, which had a steward; and the same was accused unto him that he had wasted his goods. And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.

The parable opens with a rich man and his steward, who is accused of wasting the rich man’s possessions. This immediately raises the question: What constitutes waste? In the Coptic Orthodox understanding, waste is not just reckless spending, but also the failure to use resources for God’s glory and the benefit of others. The steward’s impending dismissal serves as a stark reminder of accountability. We are all stewards of God’s gifts – time, talents, wealth, and opportunities – and we will be held accountable for how we use them. Consider the words of St. Basil the Great: “Ὁ γὰρ πλεονάζων τῷ πένητι ἐκκλέπτει” (“He who has abundance and does not share with the poor steals from him.” – Homilia in illud Lucae, Destruam horrea mea). This highlights the communal responsibility ingrained within our faith.

Spiritual Application: Reflect on the areas of your life where you may be “wasting” God’s resources. Ask yourself: How can I be a more faithful steward of the gifts I have been given? Perhaps you can start building an online presence, and host your own domain with dohost, and begin posting content that will impact people across the world.

Luke 16:3-4 (KJV)

Then the steward said within himself, What shall I do? for my lord taketh away from me the stewardship: I cannot dig; to beg I am ashamed. I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.

The steward faces a crisis. He is unfit for manual labor (“I cannot dig”) and too proud to beg (“to beg I am ashamed”). This paints a vivid picture of his desperation and resourcefulness. He resorts to a cunning plan to secure his future. While his actions are morally questionable, Jesus uses this as a lesson in prudence. This resonates with the Coptic emphasis on practical wisdom, or *phronesis*, in navigating the complexities of life. We are called to be wise and discerning, especially when faced with challenges.

Spiritual Application: When facing difficult situations, seek God’s wisdom and guidance. Don’t be afraid to think creatively and strategically, but always ensure your actions align with ethical and moral principles. How can you use your intellect and abilities to serve God and others?

Luke 16:5-7 (KJV)

So he called every one of his lord’s debtors unto him, and said unto the first, How much owest thou unto my lord? And he said, An hundred measures of oil. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and sit down quickly, and write fifty. Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.

The steward cleverly reduces the debts of his master’s debtors, securing their favor for when he loses his position. This highlights a key aspect of the parable: using earthly resources to secure future favor. This is not necessarily condoning dishonesty, but rather illustrating the importance of foresight and planning for the future, especially in the context of eternity. St. Cyril of Alexandria comments on this passage: “Τὴν γὰρ φρόνησιν ἐπαινεῖ, οὐ τὴν ἀδικίαν” (“He praises the prudence, not the injustice.” – *Commentarii in Lucam*). This reinforces the point that while the steward’s methods were questionable, his shrewdness is what Jesus emphasizes.

Spiritual Application: Consider how you can use your resources – time, money, talents – to invest in your eternal future. This could involve acts of charity, service to others, or investing in your spiritual growth. How are you “writing down” your debts to God and others?

Luke 16:8-9 (KJV)

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. And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.

This is the crux of the parable, often causing confusion. The master commends the *shrewdness*, not the dishonesty, of the steward. Jesus contrasts the “children of this world,” who are adept at worldly affairs, with the “children of light,” who often lack the same zeal in spiritual matters. The call to “make…friends of the mammon of unrighteousness” urges us to use worldly wealth to gain eternal favor. This can be achieved through charitable giving, acts of mercy, and investing in the Kingdom of God. This echoes the ancient monastic ideal of detachment from material possessions in order to gain spiritual riches.

Spiritual Application: Examine your own level of shrewdness in spiritual matters. Are you as diligent in pursuing your relationship with God as you are in pursuing worldly success? How can you use your resources to build lasting friendships in Heaven?

Luke 16:10-12 (KJV)

He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much: and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much. If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches? And if ye have not been faithful in that which is another man’s, who shall give you that which is your own?

Faithfulness in small things leads to faithfulness in greater things. This principle applies to all aspects of life, including stewardship. If we are not trustworthy with earthly wealth (“unrighteous mammon”), how can we be entrusted with true spiritual riches? Furthermore, Jesus emphasizes that earthly possessions ultimately belong to God (“that which is another man’s”). Our faithfulness in managing them demonstrates our readiness to receive our own eternal inheritance. This mirrors the Coptic understanding of progressive sanctification – growing in holiness through consistent faithfulness in all things.

Spiritual Application: Focus on cultivating faithfulness in the small, everyday tasks of your life. Are you diligent in your work, responsible with your finances, and faithful in your relationships? These seemingly small acts of faithfulness prepare you for greater responsibilities in the Kingdom of God.

Luke 16:13 (KJV)

No servant can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

A stark and unwavering declaration: allegiance cannot be divided between God and wealth (“mammon”). Serving one necessarily diminishes devotion to the other. This resonates deeply with the ascetic tradition of the Coptic Church, which emphasizes detachment from material possessions as a pathway to spiritual freedom. St. Anthony the Great famously sold all his possessions to follow Christ, embodying this principle of undivided devotion. The choice is clear: prioritize God above all else.

Spiritual Application: Identify the areas of your life where you may be trying to serve both God and mammon. What compromises are you making in your faith in order to pursue wealth or material comfort? Repent and re-commit to placing God first in all things.

Luke 16:14-15 (KJV)

And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him. And he said unto them, Ye are they which justify yourselves before men; but God knoweth your hearts: for that which is highly esteemed among men is abomination in the sight of God.

The Pharisees, known for their love of money (“covetous”), scoff at Jesus’ teachings. They are self-righteous, seeking approval from men rather than from God. Jesus rebukes them, stating that what society values – wealth, status, power – is often an abomination to God. This underscores the importance of seeking God’s approval rather than the world’s. It is a call to genuine humility and a rejection of worldly values. The Coptic Church emphasizes a “hidden life” of piety, where true righteousness is cultivated in secret, pleasing God alone.

Spiritual Application: Examine your own motivations. Are you seeking to please God or impress others? Are you prioritizing external appearances or internal transformation? Seek God’s approval above all else, and cultivate a humble and sincere heart.

Luke 16:16-18 (KJV)

The law and the prophets were until John: since that time the kingdom of God is preached, and every man presseth into it. And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass, than one tittle of the law to fail. Whosoever putteth away his wife, and marrieth another, committeth adultery: and whosoever marrieth her that is put away from her husband committeth adultery.

Jesus clarifies the transition from the Old Covenant to the New Covenant, highlighting the urgent call to enter the Kingdom of God. Yet, He also affirms the enduring validity of the Law. This section, seemingly disjointed, is connected by the theme of commitment and faithfulness. Just as the Law remains steadfast, so too should our commitment to marriage. This reaffirms the sanctity of marriage within Coptic Orthodox tradition, which views it as a lifelong covenant.

Spiritual Application: Embrace the urgency of the Gospel message and strive to enter the Kingdom of God with zeal. Uphold the sanctity of marriage and honor your commitments. Remember that true faithfulness is unwavering.

Luke 16:19-21 (KJV)

There was a certain rich man, which was clothed in purple and fine linen, and fared sumptuously every day: And there was a certain beggar named Lazarus, which was laid at his gate, full of sores, And desiring to be fed with the crumbs which fell from the rich man’s table: moreover the dogs came and licked his sores.

The parable of the rich man and Lazarus presents a stark contrast between worldly comfort and abject poverty. The rich man lives in luxury, while Lazarus lies at his gate, destitute and suffering. The use of “purple and fine linen” to describe the rich man underscores his extravagant lifestyle and his indifference to Lazarus’ suffering. Lazarus’ name, meaning “God is my help,” hints at his faith and reliance on God in the midst of his hardship. The dogs licking his sores further emphasize his utter degradation.

Spiritual Application: Be aware of the needs of those around you, especially the poor and vulnerable. Don’t become blinded by your own comfort and privilege. Extend compassion and practical help to those who are suffering. How can you be “God’s help” to someone in need?

Luke 16:22-23 (KJV)

And it came to pass, that the beggar died, and was carried by the angels into Abraham’s bosom: the rich man also died, and was buried; And in hell he lift up his eyes, being in torments, and seeth Abraham afar off, and Lazarus in his bosom.

A dramatic reversal occurs after death. Lazarus is carried by angels to “Abraham’s bosom,” a place of comfort and rest, while the rich man is in torment in Hades. This vividly illustrates the eternal consequences of our choices in this life. The rich man’s burial emphasizes the earthly pomp and circumstance that ultimately mean nothing in eternity. The Coptic Church teaches that after death, souls are in a state of waiting for the final judgment, experiencing either comfort or torment based on their earthly deeds.

Spiritual Application: Remember that your earthly life is temporary, and your eternal destiny is determined by your choices in this life. Prioritize spiritual riches over material possessions, and live a life of repentance, faith, and love.

Luke 16:24-26 (KJV)

And he cried and said, Father Abraham, have mercy on me, and send Lazarus, that he may dip the tip of his finger in water, and cool my tongue; for I am tormented in this flame. But Abraham said, Son, remember that thou in thy lifetime receivedst thy good things, and likewise Lazarus evil things: but now he is comforted, and thou art tormented. And beside all this, between us and you there is a great gulf fixed: so that they which would pass from hence to you cannot; neither can they pass to us, that would come from thence.

The rich man, now in torment, pleads for mercy, requesting even the smallest comfort from Lazarus. Abraham reminds him that he enjoyed his “good things” in life, while Lazarus suffered. Now, their situations are reversed. Furthermore, Abraham emphasizes the impossibility of crossing the “great gulf” between them. This highlights the finality of judgment and the irreversible nature of eternal destiny. The Coptic Church teaches that repentance is only possible during our earthly life; after death, our fate is sealed.

Spiritual Application: Don’t delay in repenting of your sins and turning to God. Make the most of your time on earth to pursue spiritual growth and serve others. Remember that there is no second chance after death.

Luke 16:27-31 (KJV)

Then he said, I pray thee therefore, father, that thou wouldest send him to my father’s house: For I have five brethren; that he may testify unto them, lest they also come into this place of torment. Abraham saith unto him, They have Moses and the prophets; let them hear them. And he said, Nay, father Abraham: but if one went unto them from the dead, they will repent. And he said unto him, If they hear not Moses and the prophets, neither will they be persuaded, though one rose from the dead.

The rich man, now concerned for his brothers, begs Abraham to send Lazarus to warn them. Abraham refuses, stating that they have the Scriptures (“Moses and the prophets”). The rich man believes that a miraculous appearance from the dead would be more effective, but Abraham insists that if they reject the clear teachings of Scripture, they will not be persuaded even by a resurrection. This emphasizes the importance of heeding the Word of God and the futility of seeking signs and wonders to avoid personal responsibility. The Coptic Church places a high value on Scripture and Tradition as the authoritative sources of faith and practice.

Spiritual Application: Don’t rely on sensational experiences or miraculous signs to motivate your faith. Immerse yourself in Scripture, prayer, and the teachings of the Church. Let the Word of God transform your life and guide your decisions.

Key Reflections on True Stewardship 💡

Consider the following key reflections on **understanding true stewardship**:

Eternal Perspective: True stewardship requires viewing earthly possessions in light of eternity, not just immediate gratification.
Accountability: We are accountable to God for how we manage the resources He has entrusted to us.
Compassion: Genuine stewardship is characterized by compassion for the poor and a willingness to share our resources.
Prioritization: Choosing between God and mammon requires prioritizing spiritual riches over material wealth.
Faithfulness: Faithfulness in small things demonstrates our readiness for greater responsibilities in the Kingdom of God.
Transformation: Understanding and embracing true stewardship transforms our values, priorities, and actions.

FAQ ❓

Here are some frequently asked questions about Luke 16 and its teachings:

Q: Does the parable of the unjust steward condone dishonesty?
A: No. The parable commends the *shrewdness* of the steward, not his dishonesty. Jesus uses this example to illustrate the importance of being proactive and resourceful in spiritual matters.
Q: What does it mean to “make friends of the mammon of unrighteousness”?
A: This means using earthly wealth to gain eternal favor by investing in charitable acts and working for the Kingdom of God. It’s about transforming worldly resources into spiritual capital.
Q: Why did Abraham refuse to send Lazarus to warn the rich man’s brothers?
A: Abraham emphasized that they already had the Scriptures, which provided sufficient guidance. This highlights the importance of heeding the Word of God rather than seeking miraculous signs.
Q: How does the Coptic Orthodox Church interpret the parable of the rich man and Lazarus?
A: The Coptic Church emphasizes the eternal consequences of our choices in this life. The parable serves as a warning against neglecting the poor and prioritizing material possessions over spiritual riches.

Conclusion

Luke 16 powerfully illustrates the essential principles of Christian stewardship. The parable of the unjust steward, while controversial, pushes us to be as diligent in pursuing spiritual goals as the worldly are in pursuing earthly ones. The stark warning against serving two masters challenges us to examine our deepest allegiances and prioritize God above all else. Finally, the narrative of the rich man and Lazarus serves as a sobering reminder of the eternal consequences of our choices. By prioritizing spiritual riches, demonstrating compassion, and diligently managing what God has entrusted to us, we can truly embrace **understanding true stewardship** and prepare for the eternal inheritance that awaits those who are faithful. May we all strive to be wise and faithful stewards, using our resources to build the Kingdom of God and inherit everlasting life.

Meta Description

Explore Luke 16 and discover profound insights on stewardship, wealth, and eternal life from a Coptic Orthodox perspective. Learn how to practice **understanding true stewardship** and invest in your eternal future.

Luke 16 – Teachings on Stewardship and the Rich Man and Lazarus