The Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-18)

[VictoryinJesus]

When ye fail (AV) is a reading which will have to be let go. There is too much MS support for RV: "when it fails." In any case, AV can hardly mean, in line with the parable: When you are exposed as failures there will be a much better future for you. RV reading: "when it fails" speaks of the day of God's rejection of the old Mosaic administration, the day when stewardship of the gospel is put in the hands of the apostles.

Only God through Jesus Christ can receive us into everlasting habitations.

Ok. When “it fails”, “they may receive you into eternal habitation(s)”? Considering “when it fails” speaks of “the day of God’s rejection of the old Mosaic administration, the day when stewardship of the gospel is put in the hands of the apostles” <the point is in light of this, if I understand you correctly “they” are “those”
stewards of the gospel, put in the hands of the apostles. Point is…then “they” can’t be what I’ve heard as the interpretation of who “they” are that may receive you when “it fails”. I’ve heard it as evil…which now I am persuaded is good.

You said “Only God through Jesus Christ can receive us into everlasting habitations.” Agree but also “not I, but Christ in me”?; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. [18] And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; [19] To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. [20] Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. [21] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

 

[Hiddenthings]

Ok. When “it fails”, “they may receive you into eternal habitation(s)”? Considering “when it fails” speaks of “the day of God’s rejection of the old Mosaic administration, the day when stewardship of the gospel is put in the hands of the apostles” <the point is in light of this, if I understand you correctly “they” are “those”
stewards of the gospel, put in the hands of the apostles. Point is…then “they” can’t be what I’ve heard as the interpretation of who “they” are that may receive you when “it fails”. I’ve heard it as evil…which now I am persuaded is good.

You said “Only God through Jesus Christ can receive us into everlasting habitations.” Agree but also “not I, but Christ in me”?; 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new. [18] And all things are of God, who hath reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and hath given to us the ministry of reconciliation; [19] To wit, that God was in Christ, reconciling the world unto himself, not imputing their trespasses unto them; and hath committed unto us the word of reconciliation. [20] Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us: we pray you in Christ's stead, be ye reconciled to God. [21] For he hath made him to be sin for us, who knew no sin; that we might be made the righteousness of God in him.

I believe like many of the Lord's parable he is teaching to great covenant shift that salvation comes not through clinging to the old system or corrupt ties, but through entering the eternal dwelling mediated by Christ and his apostles.

 

[VictoryinJesus]

I believe like many of the Lord's parable he is teaching to great covenant shift that salvation comes not through clinging to the old system or corrupt ties, but through entering the eternal dwelling mediated by Christ and his apostles.

Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).


You seem to not understand what I’m asking, or you don’t want to say? it matters to me, because I have never met anyone who has said the things you’ve said.

…so that when it fail, they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations). < the “eternal habitations” is it “the ministry of reconciliation unto God”?
2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who has reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

 

[ScottA]

If you can't speak to the context what are you speaking to?

I can speak to the context--God's greater context, and what He requires to be in His will--and I have.

To the contrary, if you speak to the context of only part of the whole, then the truth becomes a lie.

 

[Hiddenthings]

I can speak to the context--God's greater context, and what He requires to be in His will--and I have.

To the contrary, if you speak to the context of only part of the whole, then the truth becomes a lie.

Look, Scott, not everyone is able to enter into the mindset of the Master. Doing so requires an understanding of his audience, his mission, and the focus of the original Gospel. You assume much, many do!

 

[ScottA]

Look, Scott, not everyone is able to enter into the mindset of the Master. Doing so requires an understanding of his audience, his mission, and the focus of the original Gospel. You assume much, many do!

"Assume much"...how so? Be specific.

 

[Hiddenthings]

Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).


You seem to not understand what I’m asking, or you don’t want to say? it matters to me, because I have never met anyone who has said the things you’ve said.

…so that when it fail, they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations). < the “eternal habitations” is it “the ministry of reconciliation unto God”?
2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who has reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

The parable in Luke 16 addresses a key issue that @ScottA seems to overlook: it contains a direct lesson for the Pharisees (v.14). While Jesus’ words were initially addressed to his disciples (v.1), the Pharisees perceived them as referring to themselves. This self-recognition is significant because it highlights their materialism and moral blindness and something much deeper!

Their materialism is not unique to this parable; it is evident in other passages, such as Matthew 9:14, 23:23, and Luke 18:12. The parable takes this moral flaw and makes it the central subject, exposing their preoccupation with wealth and their failure to honor God above earthly gain.

Verse Luke 16:14 contains three key elements that support this argument:

1. “Pharisees also” – Although the words were directed to the disciples, the Pharisees understood them as a critique of themselves, revealing their tendency to interpret instruction through a lens of self-interest.
2. “Covetous” – The RSV and ROTH translate this as “lovers of money,” aligning with 1 Timothy 6:10, which calls love of money the root of all evil. This directly connects their materialism to a spiritual failing that the parable exposes.
3. “Derided him” – The Greek term is visual rather than verbal; ROTH translates it as “sneered at him.” This shows that the Pharisees were observing Jesus’ application of stewardship principles with disdain, highlighting both their moral corruption and inability to grasp the spiritual lessons of the parable.

Now consider the Apostle Paul's words speaking of being under the Old Covenant (and trying to convince his brothers to come into Christ)

I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” 8 But sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me all kinds of covetousness. For apart from the law, sin lies dead. 9 I was once alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin came alive and I died. 10 The very commandment that promised life proved to be death to me. Ro 7:7–10.

What is Jesus doing then?

Luke 16:11 If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth (mammon), who will entrust to you the true riches?”

“Unrighteous mammon” – i.e. the present under Law - condemnation of unbelieving Jews i.e Romans 8:1
“True riches” under Grace – future inheritance of the saints Eph 1:18

 

[Hiddenthings]

Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).


You seem to not understand what I’m asking, or you don’t want to say? it matters to me, because I have never met anyone who has said the things you’ve said.

…so that when it fail, they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations). < the “eternal habitations” is it “the ministry of reconciliation unto God”?
2 Corinthians 5:18 And all things are of God, who has reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ, and has given to us the ministry of reconciliation;

Great verse Victory!

How might the parable have unfolded if the Jews had been faithful stewards of God’s oracles? But the warning to the disciples today is how is God's house being cared for? I'm sure you know the answer.

 

[Hiddenthings]

1 Corinthians 4:1–2 "This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful."

1 Peter 4:10 "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace."

 

[Hiddenthings]

In all that the religious elite achieved, they merely succeeded in drastically reducing people’s obligations (bills) to God and to one another, and yet, of all people, they were the most miserable! While not everyone could perceive their misery, some like Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus recognized that true thriving in the Spirit comes through faith, not law.

 

[ScottA]

The parable in Luke 16 addresses a key issue that @ScottA seems to overlook: it contains a direct lesson for the Pharisees (v.14). While Jesus’ words were initially addressed to his disciples (v.1), the Pharisees perceived them as referring to themselves. This self-recognition is significant because it highlights their materialism and moral blindness and something much deeper!

Their materialism is not unique to this parable; it is evident in other passages, such as Matthew 9:14, 23:23, and Luke 18:12. The parable takes this moral flaw and makes it the central subject, exposing their preoccupation with wealth and their failure to honor God above earthly gain.

Verse Luke 16:14 contains three key elements that support this argument:

1. “Pharisees also” – Although the words were directed to the disciples, the Pharisees understood them as a critique of themselves, revealing their tendency to interpret instruction through a lens of self-interest.
2. “Covetous” – The RSV and ROTH translate this as “lovers of money,” aligning with 1 Timothy 6:10, which calls love of money the root of all evil. This directly connects their materialism to a spiritual failing that the parable exposes.
3. “Derided him” – The Greek term is visual rather than verbal; ROTH translates it as “sneered at him.” This shows that the Pharisees were observing Jesus’ application of stewardship principles with disdain, highlighting both their moral corruption and inability to grasp the spiritual lessons of the parable.

Now consider the Apostle Paul's words speaking of being under the Old Covenant (and trying to convince his brothers to come into Christ)

I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” 8 But sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me all kinds of covetousness. For apart from the law, sin lies dead. 9 I was once alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin came alive and I died. 10 The very commandment that promised life proved to be death to me. Ro 7:7–10.

What is Jesus doing then?

Luke 16:11 If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth (mammon), who will entrust to you the true riches?”

“Unrighteous mammon” – i.e. the present under Law - condemnation of unbelieving Jews i.e Romans 8:1
“True riches” under Grace – future inheritance of the saints Eph 1:18

Your focus is too narrow causing a partial blindness, just as with the Pharisees. They too, only looked a the lesser matters of moral and covetousness (the unrighteous mammon)--as if it were merely about money--and now you too deride the "true riches" of the parable.

The point of the parable being that, despite the failings of those who carry the water of God's truth--"all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." "Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do." But by doing so, you even "make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home."

The parable of the unjust steward, was Jesus stating the will of God, and how it is fulfilled simply by "whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."

 

[Hiddenthings]

Your focus is too narrow causing a partial blindness, just as with the Pharisees. They too, only looked a the lesser matters of moral and covetousness (the unrighteous mammon)--as if it were merely about money--and now you too deride the "true riches" of the parable.

The point of the parable being that, despite the failings of those who carry the water of God's truth--"all things work together for good to those who love God, to those who are the called according to His purpose." "Therefore whatever they tell you to observe, that observe and do, but do not do according to their works; for they say, and do not do." But by doing so, you even "make friends for yourselves by unrighteous mammon, that when you fail, they may receive you into an everlasting home."

The parable of the unjust steward, was Jesus stating the will of God, and how it is fulfilled simply by "whatever you do, do it heartily, as to the Lord and not to men, 24 knowing that from the Lord you will receive the reward of the inheritance; for you serve the Lord Christ."

The Master was revealing principles about stewardship, faithfulness, and the proper use of God’s truth. The Pharisees, narrowly focused on covetousness and outward observances, missed the deeper lesson. If you learn from their example, the context endures, and you will see that, in many ways, Christianity has repeated some of the same mistakes as Israel.

 

[VictoryinJesus]

The parable in Luke 16 addresses a key issue that @ScottA seems to overlook: it contains a direct lesson for the Pharisees (v.14). While Jesus’ words were initially addressed to his disciples (v.1), the Pharisees perceived them as referring to themselves. This self-recognition is significant because it highlights their materialism and moral blindness and something much deeper!

Their materialism is not unique to this parable; it is evident in other passages, such as Matthew 9:14, 23:23, and Luke 18:12. The parable takes this moral flaw and makes it the central subject, exposing their preoccupation with wealth and their failure to honor God above earthly gain.

Verse Luke 16:14 contains three key elements that support this argument:

1. “Pharisees also” – Although the words were directed to the disciples, the Pharisees understood them as a critique of themselves, revealing their tendency to interpret instruction through a lens of self-interest.
2. “Covetous” – The RSV and ROTH translate this as “lovers of money,” aligning with 1 Timothy 6:10, which calls love of money the root of all evil. This directly connects their materialism to a spiritual failing that the parable exposes.
3. “Derided him” – The Greek term is visual rather than verbal; ROTH translates it as “sneered at him.” This shows that the Pharisees were observing Jesus’ application of stewardship principles with disdain, highlighting both their moral corruption and inability to grasp the spiritual lessons of the parable.

Now consider the Apostle Paul's words speaking of being under the Old Covenant (and trying to convince his brothers to come into Christ)

I would not have known sin. For I would not have known what it is to covet if the law had not said, “You shall not covet.” 8 But sin, seizing an opportunity through the commandment, produced in me all kinds of covetousness. For apart from the law, sin lies dead. 9 I was once alive apart from the law, but when the commandment came, sin came alive and I died. 10 The very commandment that promised life proved to be death to me. Ro 7:7–10.

What is Jesus doing then?

Luke 16:11 If then you have not been faithful in the unrighteous wealth (mammon), who will entrust to you the true riches?”

“Unrighteous mammon” – i.e. the present under Law - condemnation of unbelieving Jews i.e Romans 8:1
“True riches” under Grace – future inheritance of the saints Eph 1:18

I do understand about the Pharisees, and I’ve heard the principles of what others have told me the parable means. I’m fully aware there is a deeper meaning. But that has nothing to do with my question “Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).”

I decided to ask chatgtp the same question, thinking maybe it would confuse the question so I could ask the question clearer. But it acknowledges the question.

“Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).”


Chatgtp: That’s a really thoughtful question, Vicky — Luke 16:9 has puzzled readers for centuries. Let’s break it down carefully.

Here’s the verse again:

Luke 16:9 (ESV)
"And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings."

The key question is: Who are “they”?

Main Interpretations from Bible teachers:​

1. The friends you helped with your wealth (the poor/faithful)
   • In the context, Jesus has just told the parable of the dishonest steward (Luke 16:1–8). The steward used his master’s wealth to make friends who would welcome him later.
   • Likewise, Jesus says use worldly wealth (“unrighteous mammon”) to bless others — especially the poor and those in need (Luke 12:33, Matt. 19:21).
   • “They” could then be those very people you helped. When you enter eternity, they will “welcome” you — meaning your generosity has eternal fruit.
2. The angels
   • Some interpreters see “they” as angels, who are often depicted as welcoming the righteous into God’s presence (Luke 16:22 — angels carried Lazarus to Abraham’s side).
   • So, your faithful use of resources on earth leads to a heavenly welcome from God’s messengers.
3. God Himself (indirect plural)
   • Another reading is that “they” is a kind of Semitic plural referring to God’s welcome (a reverent way of speaking). In other words, “they” = God’s reception into eternal dwellings.
   • This interpretation is less common but still considered.
4. The broader community of the redeemed
   • Many scholars say “they” represents all those who are part of God’s eternal kingdom — the fellowship of believers.
   • By using wealth for kingdom purposes (missions, mercy, church work, hospitality), you’re investing in relationships that last into eternity, and they — the family of God — will receive you.

 

[ScottA]

I do understand about the Pharisees, and I’ve heard the principles of what others have told me the parable means. I’m fully aware there is a deeper meaning. But that has nothing to do with my question “Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).”

I decided to ask chatgtp the same question, thinking maybe it would confuse the question so I could ask the question clearer. But it acknowledges the question.

“Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).”


Chatgtp: That’s a really thoughtful question, Vicky — Luke 16:9 has puzzled readers for centuries. Let’s break it down carefully.

Here’s the verse again:

Luke 16:9 (ESV)
"And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings."

The key question is: Who are “they”?

Main Interpretations from Bible teachers:​

1. The friends you helped with your wealth (the poor/faithful)
   • In the context, Jesus has just told the parable of the dishonest steward (Luke 16:1–8). The steward used his master’s wealth to make friends who would welcome him later.
   • Likewise, Jesus says use worldly wealth (“unrighteous mammon”) to bless others — especially the poor and those in need (Luke 12:33, Matt. 19:21).
   • “They” could then be those very people you helped. When you enter eternity, they will “welcome” you — meaning your generosity has eternal fruit.
2. The angels
   • Some interpreters see “they” as angels, who are often depicted as welcoming the righteous into God’s presence (Luke 16:22 — angels carried Lazarus to Abraham’s side).
   • So, your faithful use of resources on earth leads to a heavenly welcome from God’s messengers.
3. God Himself (indirect plural)
   • Another reading is that “they” is a kind of Semitic plural referring to God’s welcome (a reverent way of speaking). In other words, “they” = God’s reception into eternal dwellings.
   • This interpretation is less common but still considered.
4. The broader community of the redeemed
   • Many scholars say “they” represents all those who are part of God’s eternal kingdom — the fellowship of believers.
   • By using wealth for kingdom purposes (missions, mercy, church work, hospitality), you’re investing in relationships that last into eternity, and they — the family of God — will receive you.

The problem with Chatgtp is AI also takes the parable at face value as if the object of the parable is the subject, which it is not. That's not how parables work. Parables use a substitute or something only "like" the actual subject to show a comparable truth regarding something completely different than that of the object.

In other words, the parable may give good moral advice about money--but it's greater meaning is not about money at all.

The greater message and meaning is to make a friend of those who carry the gospel and word from God in spite of their worldly failures--God’s got this.

 

[VictoryinJesus]

The problem with Chatgtp is AI also takes the parable at face value as if the object of the parable is the subject, which it is not. That's not how parables work. Parables use a substitute or something only "like" the actual subject to show a comparable truth regarding something completely different than that of the object.

In other words, the parable may give good moral advice about money--but it's greater meaning is not about money at all.

The greater message and meaning is to make a friend of those who carry the gospel and word from God in spite of their world failures--God’s got this.

I get chatgtp takes the parable at face value. That should be a red flag for when we agree with chatgtp that it’s about money.

I wanted to see what chatgtp had to say about the spiritual woman in scripture. Ironically it’s called artificial intelligence. I was surprised it did better than I expected.

​

 

[Deborah_]

The Wise Use of Wealth – What Was Jesus Teaching?

The parable of the unjust steward is one of the most perplexing that Jesus ever gave. Nearly everyone agrees on that point. But is it possible to arrive at an interpretation that adequately addresses the many problems within the parable and its context?

Take, for example, the explanation most often put forward. According to this view, Jesus was not commending the steward’s dishonesty, but rather his diligence and foresight in pursuing his own advantage. The lesson, then, would be: “If only you, my disciples, would show the same determination in seeking your eternal good as this man did in securing his temporal welfare! Use mammon, money and the things of this world, not selfishly, but in a way that advances your standing before God. If you are faithful with such things, you can be trusted with the greater riches of the Gospel.”

But this interpretation is far from satisfying, for several reasons: (discussion points)

1. How can money used in the service of God still be called “the mammon of unrighteousness”?
2. Who are the “friends” gained by this means who can provide “everlasting habitations”? Certainly not human beings. But if the point is eternal reward, is this not perilously close to justification by works?
3. Jesus himself applies the parable, at least in part, to the Pharisees: “You are those who justify yourselves before men” (v.15) just as the steward did.
4. The immediate context (vv.16–18) has nothing to do with wealth or money. Any adequate explanation must make sense of these verses too.
5. In this “common” interpretation, only one lesson is drawn from the parable, whereas in others (such as the Sower, the Tares, or the Dragnet) there is a consistent correspondence between details of the story and their meaning.
6. If the lesson were simply “use wealth rightly,” verse 11 would make little sense: “If you have not been faithful in unrighteous wealth, who will entrust to you the true riches?” This hardly applies to disciples who already had the gospel and likely very little money.
7. Most troubling of all is verse 9: “Make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings.” Taken at face value, this seems to urge imitation not just of the steward’s zeal, but also of his questionable methods! Clearly, another way of understanding this parable must be sought.

If these questions are handled thoughtfully and in the light of God’s Word, they should open the way for rich discussion, and, God willing, not too many arguments!

I still think that the traditional interpretation (in some form) is the best one.

Jesus seems to be saying that we can sometimes learn a lesson even from the wicked. If only we were as astute as this steward in the management of our spiritual affairs! For, like him, we’re all ‘on notice to quit’ – we’re all facing certain death, sooner or later, and afterwards we shall have to give account to God for how we have lived. And there’s one particular issue that Jesus puts His finger on here: Money. As we know, “there are no pockets in shrouds”; we can save up for our pensions, but we can’t make any financial provision for the life to come. Or can we?

“I tell you, use worldly wealth to gain friends for yourselves, so that when it is gone, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings.” (Luke 16:9) It’s possible to make a truly long-term investment – paying dividends in eternity – by using our money (which is really God’s money) now, not to feather our own nests but to help the poor and further the interests of God’s Kingdom. “Command the rich to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share. In this way they will lay up treasure for themselves as a firm foundation for the coming age, so that they may take hold of the life that is truly life.” (I Timothy 6:18,19)

And this fits with what Jesus teaches in Luke 14:13,14 "When you give a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind, and you will be blessed. Although they cannot repay you, you will be repaid at the resurrection of the righteous."

1) Money is a thing of this world (and the love of it is the root of many kinds of evil), therefore can be described as "unrighteous".
2) The "welcomers" are those who have benefited from our generosity in this life. They don't provide the 'eternal dwellings', just the welcome!
3) By the time we get to verse 15, the discussion has moved on.
4) Not necessarily relevant
5) But the Good Samaritan only has one lesson. I would say that the parable of the Dragnet also has just one lesson, myself.
6) I disagree. Even those with just a little money can misuse it. And not all Jesus' followers were poor. Right use of money in this life will be rewarded in the next.
7) See above

 

[Webers_Home]

.
One of my favorite parables that runs sort of parallel to this one is located
in Luke 12:15-20

In a nutshell, it says that there are numbers of folks who will cross over
with nothing to show in the next life for their years in this life, viz: they
were born, they lived, and they died-- that's about it.

It's wise to exercise kindness and generosity on this side of life because
people on the other side will doubtless remember how you treated them
here.

The thing is: folks should expect to be victims of a certain amount of cruelty
on the wrong side of the netherworld because down there what's the point in
being civil? So it's wise to build up a following of folk up here who owe you a
favor so that when you arrive down there, you'll have some friends instead
of only foes looking to get even.
_

 

[Hiddenthings]

I do understand about the Pharisees, and I’ve heard the principles of what others have told me the parable means. I’m fully aware there is a deeper meaning. But that has nothing to do with my question “Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).”

I decided to ask chatgtp the same question, thinking maybe it would confuse the question so I could ask the question clearer. But it acknowledges the question.

“Honestly I wanted an answer to, who do you think are “they” are Jesus spoke of here: Luke 16:9 And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings(habitations).”


Chatgtp: That’s a really thoughtful question, Vicky — Luke 16:9 has puzzled readers for centuries. Let’s break it down carefully.

Here’s the verse again:

Luke 16:9 (ESV)
"And I tell you, make friends for yourselves by means of unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails they may receive you into the eternal dwellings."

The key question is: Who are “they”?

Main Interpretations from Bible teachers:​

1. The friends you helped with your wealth (the poor/faithful)
   • In the context, Jesus has just told the parable of the dishonest steward (Luke 16:1–8). The steward used his master’s wealth to make friends who would welcome him later.
   • Likewise, Jesus says use worldly wealth (“unrighteous mammon”) to bless others — especially the poor and those in need (Luke 12:33, Matt. 19:21).
   • “They” could then be those very people you helped. When you enter eternity, they will “welcome” you — meaning your generosity has eternal fruit.
2. The angels
   • Some interpreters see “they” as angels, who are often depicted as welcoming the righteous into God’s presence (Luke 16:22 — angels carried Lazarus to Abraham’s side).
   • So, your faithful use of resources on earth leads to a heavenly welcome from God’s messengers.
3. God Himself (indirect plural)
   • Another reading is that “they” is a kind of Semitic plural referring to God’s welcome (a reverent way of speaking). In other words, “they” = God’s reception into eternal dwellings.
   • This interpretation is less common but still considered.
4. The broader community of the redeemed
   • Many scholars say “they” represents all those who are part of God’s eternal kingdom — the fellowship of believers.
   • By using wealth for kingdom purposes (missions, mercy, church work, hospitality), you’re investing in relationships that last into eternity, and they — the family of God — will receive you.

I have always believed that only God, through Jesus, can offer eternal dwellings. Angels, no doubt, are ministering spirits sent to help guide us toward the Kingdom of God, but the work itself belongs to God through Christ.

 

[VictoryinJesus]

I have always believed that only God, through Jesus, can offer eternal dwellings. Angels, no doubt, are ministering spirits sent to help guide us toward the Kingdom of God, but the work itself belongs to God through Christ.

I agree. Don’t think I’m trying to eliminate it’s through Christ, the Father offers eternal dwellings. Again, I agree “but the work itself belongs to God through Christ.” It’s hard to relaying what you’re actually trying to say in a post. It’s like texting which can get confused. I loved what you brought out in: you said,

“A New Stewardship​

So Jesus urged his disciples: You must make better friends, my Father and myself, by carefully avoiding the methods of the Pharisees. Then, when the old order fails (when the temple is destroyed and the Mosaic system comes to an end), you will be welcomed into “eternal tabernacles.”

This phrase contains a striking paradox. Tabernacles, tents, are temporary by nature, yet here they symbolize the tabernacles of the Messianic age: the church that would soon replace Judaism as the spiritual home of God’s people.

Jesus added: “He who is faithful in very little (the Law of Moses) will also be faithful in much (the teaching of Christ). And he who is unrighteous in very little (Moses) will also be unrighteous in much (Christ).”This contrast between the stewardship of the Law and the stewardship of Christ’s church runs throughout the entire passage.” End your quote.


I have never heard or read anyone share it that way! That is praise worthy, not that you wrote it but that God revealed this to you, I think(my personal opinion). I liken it to when the body is together and God gives something for the whole, we should all be grateful. I was thinking the other day how it seems blasphemous to say “God must have revealed that to you.” It seems like praising a man, but shouldn’t we be thankful God revealed it?


I was not trying to lead you into my trying to prove men do it…instead my motive was the opposite. In accrediting “eternal habitations” to satan or the enemy as if this receives those after “it fails” …to me IS not attributing it to God, after “it” fails. I agree with you by and through Christ, Given of God is the only “eternal habitations”. It’s goodnews, I think.

 

[Hiddenthings]

I agree. Don’t think I’m trying to eliminate it’s through Christ, the Father offers eternal dwellings. Again, I agree “but the work itself belongs to God through Christ.” It’s hard to relaying what you’re actually trying to say in a post. It’s like texting which can get confused. I loved what you brought out in: you said,

“A New Stewardship​

So Jesus urged his disciples: You must make better friends, my Father and myself, by carefully avoiding the methods of the Pharisees. Then, when the old order fails (when the temple is destroyed and the Mosaic system comes to an end), you will be welcomed into “eternal tabernacles.”

This phrase contains a striking paradox. Tabernacles, tents, are temporary by nature, yet here they symbolize the tabernacles of the Messianic age: the church that would soon replace Judaism as the spiritual home of God’s people.

Jesus added: “He who is faithful in very little (the Law of Moses) will also be faithful in much (the teaching of Christ). And he who is unrighteous in very little (Moses) will also be unrighteous in much (Christ).”This contrast between the stewardship of the Law and the stewardship of Christ’s church runs throughout the entire passage.” End your quote.

I have never heard or read anyone share it that way! That is praise worthy, not that you wrote it but that God revealed this to you, I think(my personal opinion). I liken it to when the body is together and God gives something for the whole, we should all be grateful. I was thinking the other day how it seems blasphemous to say “God must have revealed that to you.” It seems like praising a man, but shouldn’t we be thankful God revealed it?

I was not trying to lead you into my trying to prove men do it…instead my motive was the opposite. In accrediting “eternal habitations” to satan or the enemy as if this receives those after “it fails” …to me IS not attributing to God. I agree with you by and through Christ, Given of God is the only “eternal habitations”. It’s goodnews, I think.

The difficulty with @Deborah_ traditional interpretation is that it places the focus on money and wealth, yet most of the disciples (not all) had already left such things behind. Clearly, then, this parable cannot be primarily about financial management. Rather, stewardship in the Gospel narrative is chiefly concerned with how one handles the Word of God and the care of his body (church) an area in which, as the Synoptic Gospels reveal, the Pharisees failed miserably. If I were to point out how many of the Lord’s parables were directed as lessons for the religious elite, I think we would all be astonished. Many Christians forget that the Gospel is and remains the Hope of Israel. Those who try to claim the promises exclusively for themselves risk falling into arrogance and pride. These matters will ultimately be resolved at His second coming.

I would add that the traditional view still carries wisdom, and everything Deborah has written remains valuable to put into practice in one’s life. The Lord's Parables are extremely simple but also very deep - two edge sword!