“The Dishonest Manager"  < --- Click To Download the Speaker Notes.

Lesson Outline: The Dishonest Manager — Use Wealth Well

Text: Gospel of Luke 16:1–13

I. Introduction: What Are Your Kingdom Dreams?

Define a Kingdom Dream:

A faithful vision, in partnership with God, to help others grow closer to Jesus.

Connecting personal vision with stewardship

Key Question:

What does this parable have to do with my future, my finances, and my calling?

II. Context Matters

A. Part of a Triplet of Parables

The Prodigal Son (Luke 15)

The Dishonest Manager (Luke 16:1–13)

The Rich Man & Lazarus (Luke 16:19–31)

B. Shift in Audience

Luke 15:1 – Pharisees

Luke 16:1 – DisciplesLuke 16:19 – Pharisees

Insight: This teaching is directed to disciples — people already following Jesus.

III. The Problem: Mismanagement and Identity

A. The Accusation (16:1–2)

The manager is accused of squandering resources.

No details are given — why?

Accountability is unavoidable.

B. The Manager’s Crisis (16:3–4)

Fear of losing position

Identity tied to role

Social status and survival

Discussion Questions:

Do our jobs shape our identity?

How does culture assign identity, status, and influence?

How does this conflict with Galatians 3:27 (clothed with Christ)?

IV. The Shrewd Strategy (16:5–7)

Reduces the debts of the master’s debtors.

Secures future relationships.

Acts decisively with urgency.

Key Question:

Whose money is he giving away?

Answer: Not his own — he is a steward.

V. The Surprise: The Master’s Commendation (16:8–9)

The manager is praised for wisdom, not dishonesty.

“Children of this age” vs. “Children of light”

Make friends by means of worldly wealth.

Use temporary wealth to secure eternal impact.

VI. The Big Teaching on Stewardship (16:10–13)

A. Faithfulness in Little Leads to Much

Character is revealed in small responsibilities.

B. Wealth Is a Trust

If unfaithful with worldly wealth, who will trust you with true riches?

C. Divided Loyalty Is Impossible

You cannot serve both God and money.

VII. Theology of Stewardship

A. What Is a Steward?

One who manages what belongs to another.

B. Whose Wealth Is It?

Ultimately, God’s.

C. Is Wealth Stewardship a Salvation Issue?

It reveals allegiance.

It exposes what we truly serve.

VIII. Biblical Wisdom on Stewardship

A. Planning and Attention (Proverbs 27:23–24)
B. Generosity (Proverbs 11:24)

C. Avoiding Debt (Proverbs 22:7)

D. Building Legacy (Proverbs 13:22)

IX. Connecting Stewardship to Kingdom Dreams

A. Kingdom Dreams Require Preparation

Vision without preparation lacks foundation.

B. Prepare and Put Your Wealth to Work

Practical Areas:

Career, Debt, Retirement, Giving

X. Application Exercise

Group Discussion (4–6 People)

Share your Kingdom Dream(s).

Share how you are preparing for that vision.

Evaluate how your wealth management supports or hinders your dream.

XI. Closing Challenge

You are a steward, not an owner.

Your financial faithfulness shapes eternal outcomes.

Your Kingdom Dream will only grow as your stewardship matures.

Final Question:

Are you using what belongs to God in a way that advances what matters to Him?