Monday: Stewards in the New Testament
The two basic words for “steward”
in the New Testament are epitropos, occurring three times, and oikonomos, occurring 10 times. Both these words describe positions that incorporate managerial responsibilities entrusted to the steward by the owner.
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In both the New and Old Testaments, stewards are defined by what they do. The New Testament specifically describes the steward in terms of accountability (Luke 12:48) and expectations (1 Cor. 4:2). The Old Testament, though, is more focused on declaring God’s ownership than directly defining us as His stewards. Thus, while the concept of a steward is very similar for both Testaments, the New Testament expands the concept beyond just household management.
In the parable of the dishonest steward (Luke 16:1-15), Jesus expands the definition of steward. His lesson is about more than a steward escaping financial disaster. It is also applicable to those escaping spiritual disaster through a wise manifestation of faith. A wise steward will prepare for the future of Jesus’ return beyond the here and now (Matt. 25:21).
Read 1 Corinthians 4:1-2; Titus 1:7; and 1 Peter 4:10. What do they tell us about stewards and stewardship?
“Shall I open my heart to the Holy Spirit, that every faculty and energy may be aroused, which God has given me in trust? I am Christ’s property, and am employed in His service. I am a steward of His grace.” – Ellen G. White, Fundamentals of Christian Education, p. 301.
In Luke 12:35-48, Jesus also uses the term “steward” metaphorically. He tells of the wise steward being ready for the Son of man’s return, and describes the unfaithful steward as one who has given up caring because the master has delayed His return. The unfaithful steward has turned into a tyrant and has become abusive to those around him. He is no longer a pattern of good works or a manager of grace.
When we accept Christ, we are stewards, called to manage God’s resources. But more important, we are to manage the spiritual realities of the Christian life in preparation for heaven.
| Read Luke 12:45. Why must we as Seventh-day Adventists, who often struggle with a sense of “delay,” be especially careful about falling into this deception? |
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In answer to the question in blue: Christ has not finished His work on Earth yet so there is really no "delay" other than how we might view it. 2 Peter 3 talks about this - God is not slow to keep His promises, but is longsuffering, not willing that any should perish.
My family is yet to accept Christ and I'm so grateful for the delay in closing this world's history.
I think this is also the answer to Stewardship - giving to God's cause everything we have, whatever we have, so that one more soul may know about and accept the love of Jesus. Rather than thinking in terms of delay, it might be preferred to think in terms of "great patience and mercy" so that all possible will come into God's family. It's a good thing...for now at least.
Doing for Christ is made perfect when is the result of love! Love for God and friends! As we get close to Christ we feel compelled to actions! Eventhough we are saved just by the accepting of His mercy!
I do agree with the comment above. Dear father gel us is your people to be good stewards of all the time, talents and treasures you have given to us. Help us to be good stewards of our body temples. Help us to keep heaters and doers of your word. Amen.
In Mathew 25:21 He said unto Him,Well done,thou good and faithful servant: thou has been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy Lord." This parable is a great challenge on how God have trusted you and widened your area of stewardship.
Regarding the question above in blue, all Christians, Seventh-day Adventist and those in other folds, should be careful to guard against procrastination in their preparation for the Lord's coming. But, as faithful Stewards, Seventh-day Adventists have been given the Spirit of Prophecy to prepare God's people for translation in these last days! Our lesson points out 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 which states that we are to be faithful Stewards of the "Mysteries of God" which He has entrusted to us! The Lord desires that we faithfully use the gift of prophecy in the fulfilment of His will for the salvation of men. We have been given an awesome responsibility!
And as 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 the most important idea of our agenda is to learned, what is the most important of God is WHO JESUS IS and what Jesus has done for us humans.
In my short experience being around many Adventist, I've noted much pride in their length of religious exposure,their Biblical knowledge, education,material possessions, etc. However the managing of such is to gain in social and economic status in this world, or to provide for entertainment and more luxurious comfort for their families. Thankfully, I've noted also the generous who lovingly manage and share their time, gifts,efforts, etc. to gain souls for Jesus. I pray I can unselfishly become and remain as the latter as we await the return of Jesus.
Sounds like you know the meaning of: Luke 6:38. 2Corinthians 9:6-11.
May God forgive us if we , who are in the world ,have become as the world.Sad to hear how people see God's people. But I take courage and appreciate 2Chronicles 7:14. May God heal His people so we can be worthy of His name.
There is no delay in Jesus Second Coming. It comes to all believers and unbelievers as a thief simply because no one knows the day nor the hours of his second coming. But to all his followers the counsel is to "Watch," "Pray," and "Be Faithful," and "Become Like God himself," in Character of forgiveness etc.
The delay maybe, God waiting for us to get our act together. When enough take personal responsibility, the Lord's coming will be expedited. Maybe we aren't ready for the close of probation yet because personal efforts have not been made for those who do not know Christ, maybe we have delayed the later rain because we have fallen into a luke warm state. Yes you are right about the thief. 1 Thessalonians 4:2-8. Love and duty my friend. God gave us the ability to multitask. Love and duty.
I am sorry I intended 1 Thessalonians 5:2-8.
There's much concern on us the stewards of today. We blame our first parents not looking on ourselves. How do we care for everything as the stewards who are living in the last days.