The subject of money is something most people don’t want to talk about in church, yet it impacts almost everything we do – every part of our lives.
Read the parable of the shrewd manager (Luke 16:1-15) read the parable
A manager was about to be fired for wasting his boss’ money. Before he left the job, he went to people who owed his boss money and forgave much of their debt. In this way, the manager would find favor with those people, and they might help him when he lost his job. Then this dishonest guy was actually commended for acting shrewdly and gaining friends! What is going on here??
Jesus is speaking to three groups of people: the tax collectors & sinners, the disciples, and the Pharisees. How would they process Jesus’ story, and what can we learn from that?
Sinners & Tax Collectors:
These guys understood about cutting corners and taking advantage of people. Jesus is speaking their language. And Jesus commends the dishonest manager! Why?? Because he still figured out a way to make the most of the resources he was given.
But then Jesus raises the bar and talks about trust, honesty and eternal riches. He didn’t judge these men. He challenged them to up the ante – to shoot for a higher reward than worldly wealth. He’s showing that he believes in them and offers them the hope of a better way.
The Disciples
These are Jesus’ students. He’s challenging their perspective on money; and He wants to teach them about dealing with the sinners and the Pharisees, because that’s who they will struggle with. Jesus wants them to be able to speak to these two groups in a way that stirs challenge and hope.
The Pharisees
These were the know-it-alls. When Jesus began the parable they thought that He would condemn the dishonest manager (in that way, the sinners and tax collectors gathered there would also be condemned). But when the story takes a turn and the manager was commended, the Pharisees were shocked and angry.
Then Jesus goes even further, comparing the Pharisees to the dishonest manager – exploiting people and using the resources of their Master to make things better for themselves. This story challenged them to the core.
Practical principles we can take from this story:
1. Principle of shrewdness
Most of us have a negative image of “shrewd”. But it also means: smart, wise, insightful. So
– what can we learn from this shrewd manager of the parable?
a. He saw things realistically. When we face a tough financial situation we need to look at
the brutal facts and be honest with ourselves.
b. He acted quickly. Don’t waste time with self-pity or procrastination.
c. He used what he had. Many times we focus on what we don’t have and it paralyzes
us. Look at what you have – and start moving so God can bless your action.
2. Principle of investment (Luke 16:9)
This manager used his boss’ wealth to gain friends – he was going to need them! Though our motivation is different, we too need to invest in people. We need to look for ways to bless others and make friends. Many of us have no unchurched friends. Who are we sharing our Christian message with? Are we investing in friendships that can make an impact now and forever?
3. Principle of trust (Luke 16:10, 11)
If people can’t handle little, they will not be able to handle much. Jesus wants to know what really matters to us. Ultimately, it’s about our character. Money tests us over time - how we handle it makes a difference.
4. Principle of choice. (Luke 16:13)
We cannot serve both God and money. Jesus isn’t teaching that money is bad. In fact, the more you have the more you can give. But who we serve is the choice. Is money our master, or is Jesus our master?
If money is our master it will be ever before us,
blocking our awareness of God, family, our neighbor, and eternal values.
If Jesus is our master, money will be a blessing,
a tool for impacting lives and extending God’s mercy,
a way to make an eternal difference.
Application Thoughts:
How much time do you spend thinking (or worrying) about money?
Are you being honest with yourself about your financial situation?
Are you waiting for “something” to happen, or using what you have?
Is there someone you can begin to “invest” in?
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