Week 3 Parables – Parable of the Shrewd Manager (March 7)
STUDY
Read Luke 16:1-9. Let’s apply what we learned on Day 15 about interpreting parables.
1. Main Characters …
2. Ideas that are emphasized in the dialogue (what people are saying) …
3. Context: Read verses 10-12.
4. Don’t focus on the details too much: This is a great example of a parable that may be confusing if you get too caught up in the details. Some people might ask, “How can this parable be a good example to us if the manager is clearly doing something dishonest?” But we can see by looking at the context that Jesus, in the verses after the parable, emphasizes the importance of trustworthiness and honesty. So the parable is focusing in on the shrewdness of the manager and not endorsing the dishonesty.
IMMERSE
So what is the main point? Jesus tells us out front this time in verse 9, “Here’s the lesson: Use your worldly resources to benefit others and make friends. Then, when your earthly possessions are gone, they will welcome you to an eternal home” (NLT).
How can you use your worldly resources to benefit others?
Right after this parable Jesus says in verse 13, “No one can serve two masters. For you will hate one and love the other; you will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money” (NLT). Is the message of this verse something you can thank God you have all together, or is it a challenge to you? Ask God where you are at and refer to your Prayer Journal.