Luke 16:1-18

Luke 16:1-18

1. Who did the Rich Man’s creditors think was being generous to them? Why would the shrewd manager gain from lowering the bills of his master’s creditors?

2. After the manager lowered the bills, what choices did the master have?

3. What does “shrewd” mean? Is it bad to be shrewd?

4. What are some possible interpretations of this parable, especially Verses 8-9? (Hint: there are at least 6 interpretations, perhaps more.)

5. Is Jesus commending dishonesty? (16:8)

6. What is Jesus saying about (or to) “the children of the light?” (16:8, Matt 10:16)

7. What’s the bottom line meaning of Verse 16:9?

8. Verses 10 to 13 almost sound like proverbs of the New Testament. How do these relate to sayings in the “Wisdom books?” (Job 36:18, Psalm 37:16, 49:20, 62:10, Prov 8:18, 11:28, 23:4-5, 28:20, Eccl 5:10)

9. Verse 16:13 is one of the best-known Biblical teachings about money. What is the other one? (1 Timothy 6:10, Hebrews 13:5)

10. Why is it so difficult to keep a proper (Biblical) perspective about money? How do you need to change your attitude toward wealth?

11. Jesus’ statement in Luke 16:17 is very difficult to reconcile with current Christian beliefs. Jesus basically says that every one of the Laws of God passed down through Moses (spelled out in Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy) is in effect forever. How can we explain this? (Matthew 5:17)

12. Luke 16:18. What should be our attitude toward adultery? Toward divorce? How do you think Jesus would want you to treat Christians who are divorced?