The Unjust Stewart - Troy Postlethwait

Let me speak to your heart today as we reflect on the teaching of Jesus in Luke 16. In this passage, we encounter the parable of the unjust steward-a story that challenges us to think deeply about how we handle what has been entrusted to us. Jesus begins by telling His disciples about a rich man who confronts his steward for wasting his goods. Facing dismissal, the steward cleverly reduces the debts owed to his master, seeking to secure favor with others for the uncertain future ahead. It’s a story that may seem puzzling at first, but it carries profound truths when examined closely.
The steward’s actions were undeniably dishonest, but his shrewdness-his ability to act decisively and use resources wisely in the face of crisis-is what Jesus highlights. The lesson isn’t in his dishonesty but in his cleverness. Jesus invites us to consider: Are we, as stewards of God’s resources, using what we’ve been given with eternity in mind? Are we as resourceful for God’s kingdom as this steward was for his future?
I want you to notice what Jesus says in verse 9: “Make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home.” Here, Jesus refers to “mammon,” or material wealth, as uncertain and fleeting. But it’s not wealth itself that’s the problem-it’s how we use it. Jesus calls us to use the temporary resources of this world to invest in eternal purposes. Are we using what God has given us to bless others, share the gospel, and store treasures in heaven?
Jesus then makes it clear: Faithfulness is key. In verse 10, He teaches that those faithful in little will be faithful in much, and those who are unjust in little will be unjust in much. How we manage material wealth is a test-a reflection of whether we can be entrusted with the true riches of heaven. If we can’t be faithful with what isn’t ours, how can we expect to be given what is eternal and truly ours in Christ?
The parable’s lesson is underscored by Jesus’ statement in verse 13: “You cannot serve God and mammon.” This is a call to wholehearted devotion. We cannot allow material wealth to become our master, for if it does, we will inevitably despise the true Master, who is God. The Pharisees, lovers of money, scoffed at Jesus because their hearts were captivated by wealth rather than God. But Jesus reminds them-and us-that God sees the heart. What is esteemed by man may be an abomination to Him.
The takeaway is clear: We are merely stewards of what God has entrusted us, and our time here is limited. How we use our resources-our money, time, and talents-reveals where our true allegiance lies. Are we using these gifts to glorify God, help others, and advance His kingdom, or are we hoarding them for ourselves? Are we faithful stewards or unjust ones?
Today, I urge you to examine your heart and your stewardship. Are you shrewdly using the resources entrusted to you to prepare for eternity? Are you investing in heaven by loving others, spreading the gospel, and living faithfully? Remember, everything we have is God’s, and He calls us to use it wisely for His glory.
If you’ve been trusting in this world's fleeting riches, it’s time to turn your heart fully to God. Let Him be your Master, and use what He has given you to build a foundation for the life to come. Reflect on where your treasure truly lies. Will you let God use you as a faithful steward for His eternal purposes?