“Trusting the Stewards God Has Placed Among Us”

Reference

Luke 16:1-13

“Trusting the Stewards God Has Placed Among Us”

Sermon Summary

In a season of transition, the story of the shrewd manager from Jesus’ parable offers a surprising lesson. The manager, faced with a crisis, acts boldly and strategically—not out of self-interest, but to build relationships and secure a future. This challenges us to consider how we use our own resources, not just for personal gain, but for the flourishing of others and the community. Money and possessions can easily entangle us, but they can also be transformed into tools for generosity, relationship, and mission when used wisely and faithfully.

Our congregation is navigating uncertain waters, much like a ship’s crew in a storm. The church council and vision task force are entrusted with guiding us through the sale of our building and discerning our next steps. While not every decision is visible to all, trust and prayerful support for these leaders are essential. Each member’s contribution—whether time, talent, or treasure—may seem small, but together they form the larger picture of God’s vision for our church, much like pieces of a puzzle coming together.

Stewardship is not just about finances; it’s about cultivating a future we may not fully see, like gardeners planting seeds for generations to come. Our leaders are preparing the soil and tending the garden so that our ministry can thrive beyond this moment. The call is to trust, support, and pray for those leading us, and to invest ourselves in the life of the church through service, generosity, and relationship-building.

Ultimately, we are reminded that our true calling is not to cling to comfort or buildings, but to use all that we have—our resources, our gifts, our very selves—to serve God and one another. By coming together with trust, courage, and generosity, we participate in God’s ongoing work and ensure a vibrant future for our congregation and the wider community.

Key Takeaways

1. Strategic Faithfulness in Crisis When faced with uncertainty, bold and wise action rooted in faith can open new possibilities. The shrewd manager is commended not for dishonesty, but for his ability to act decisively and creatively in a time of need. In our own seasons of transition, God calls us to be both faithful and strategic, using what we have to build up the community and serve others. [01:01]
2. Trusting Leadership in Unseen Decisions Just as a ship’s crew must trust their captain and each other during a storm, we are called to trust the leaders God has placed among us. Even when we cannot see every detail or decision, our support and prayers empower those who guide us through challenging transitions. Trust is an act of faith that strengthens the whole body. [01:55]
3. The Power of Collective Stewardship Every individual gift—no matter how small—contributes to the larger mission and vision of the church. Like pieces of a puzzle, our time, talents, and treasures come together to reveal God’s purpose for our community. Stewardship is a shared journey, where each person’s participation is vital to the flourishing of all. [02:41]
4. Planting for a Future Beyond Ourselves True stewardship means investing in a future we may never fully witness, much like gardeners who plant seeds for generations to come. Our actions today—pruning, planting, and nurturing—prepare the way for future ministry and growth. Faithful stewardship is an act of hope and trust in God’s unfolding plan. [03:17]
5. Generosity as Relationship-Building Resources are not meant to be hoarded or used solely for self-preservation; they are tools for forging meaningful relationships and supporting God’s work. By giving generously and investing in others, we reflect God’s love and participate in the flourishing of the whole community. Generosity transforms both giver and receiver, drawing us deeper into God’s mission. [04:15]