Read Luke 16:1-18
What is Jesus saying here? Is He celebrating the actions of this dishonest manager? Did He really say, “Make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth”?
Well, yes. And no.
Jesus calls it “unrighteous wealth” not necessarily because it was gained dishonestly, but because it is temporary—perishable, fading, and so often tangled up in idolatrous and self-serving motives. Earthly wealth does not last. It cannot save. It so easily becomes a master. In contrast, our true riches are found in the “inheritance that is imperishable, undefiled, and unfading, kept in heaven” (1 Peter 1:3–5).
Jesus is not encouraging dishonesty. Rather, He points to the manager’s shrewdness. This man understood something about urgency. He acted decisively in light of what was coming. In that sense, he was prudent.
As Christians, we should not be less thoughtful or intentional with wealth. In fact, knowing how fleeting it is—and knowing the eternal treasure already secured for us—gives us even more reason to use what God has entrusted to us wisely. Our Lord is merciful and always has His kingdom ways and eternal realities in view. Therefore, we too live and give with eternity in mind. We manage His gifts not as owners, but as stewards, shaped by mercy and focused on His Kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, all good gifts come from You. You have already secured for me the treasure and inheritance of eternal life. Grant me wisdom in my stewardship, that I would use faithfully and effectively all that You place into my hands. Amen.