A tale of two masters

Read > Luke 16:1-18

Use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends (v. 9).

Orson Welles’ great masterpiece Citizen Kane opens with Kane, a fictional media magnate, uttering his mysterious last word “Rosebud.”

Materially, Kane wanted for nothing, but he was haunted by the elusive “Rosebud.” It turns out “Rosebud” was a sledge he had as a boy. For him it represented a time of childhood innocence and happiness. The man who had it all was willing to give up everything to reclaim that one moment.

I wonder if there’s anything you desire so highly that you’d give up everything for it. According to Jesus, the kingdom of God should be the object of our greatest desire.

It may seem surprising that Jesus commends the actions of the scheming manager in Luke 16. But, as always, Jesus’ teaching runs against human expectations.

His message includes a clear instruction to make friends (v. 9). Why? Friendships are the right context for sharing the good news of Jesus. God doesn’t want us to have a “hit and run” attitude to evangelism. Our friends will find it easier to hear the gospel when they also see us living it out.

Think about the things you use every day – your car, your food, your pay cheque, your home. If used wisely, all of it can be useful for making friends (v. 9). In chapter 15, Jesus revealed the lavish way God welcomes His people into His kingdom. Praise God we have the opportunity to mirror that welcoming way of treating others!

The Christian life is rarely easy. That’s why Jesus likens it to carrying a cross (14:27). But everything we have is dispensable for the sake of the kingdom. It’s not worth holding anything back from God, as the Pharisees did (16:14). Instead we’re called to obey God’s Word (vv. 16-17). Whether it’s our possessions (v. 12) or our relationships (v. 18), it’s worth giving it all for the kingdom of God. – Jon Lindsay

More >

·         Matthew 6:19-21

·         Romans 12:1-2

·         1 Timothy 6:3-11, 17-1

Next >

Do you have friends who don’t know Jesus? How can you use your time and possessions to demonstrate kingdom living?