by Doreen Kajulu | 19 October 2023 08:46 pm10
“And Abram said, ‘O Lord God, what will you give me, for I continue childless, and the heir of my house is Eliezer of Damascus?’”
(Genesis 15:2, ESV)
“Abraham said to his servant, the oldest of his household, who had charge of all that he had…”
(Genesis 24:2, ESV)
Joseph was appointed over all the household affairs of Potiphar. His faithfulness as a steward in a foreign land underlines the principle that stewardship is not based on status but on integrity and faith.
“He left all that he had in Joseph’s charge, and because of him he had no concern about anything but the food he ate.”
(Genesis 39:6, ESV)
Jesus extensively taught about stewardship, especially in relation to the Kingdom of God. He used stewards in parables to illustrate faithfulness, accountability, and readiness for His return.
Jesus emphasized the need for readiness and wise management. A faithful steward is one who lives in anticipation of the Master’s return, serving diligently.
“Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom his master will set over his household, to give them their portion of food at the proper time?”
(Luke 12:42, ESV)
“Everyone to whom much was given, of him much will be required…”
(Luke 12:48, ESV)
This parable reinforces the idea that God expects a return on what He entrusts to His people. The servants who multiplied their talents were commended, while the one who did nothing faced judgment.
“For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.”
(Matthew 25:29, ESV)
1. Stewardship Reflects God’s Ownership
Everything we have is from God and belongs to Him.
“The earth is the Lord’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein.”
(Psalm 24:1, ESV)
2. Stewardship Requires Faithfulness
It is not the size of the gift but the faithfulness in using it that matters.
“Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful.”
(1 Corinthians 4:2, ESV)
3. Stewardship Involves Accountability
God will hold each believer accountable for how they managed what He entrusted to them.
“So then each of us will give an account of himself to God.”
(Romans 14:12, ESV)
Stewardship is not just for pastors or church leaders. Every Christian is called to manage their gifts, time, and calling for God’s glory.
“As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace.”
(1 Peter 4:10, ESV)
Jesus’ instruction to Peter after the resurrection also confirms that love for Christ is shown through responsible care for others:
“He said to him the third time, ‘Simon, son of John, do you love me?’… Jesus said to him, ‘Feed my sheep.’”
(John 21:17, ESV)
All believers are stewards of Christ. Whether in ministry, business, family, or personal life, God expects faithfulness. Stewardship is a sign of maturity and a pathway to greater Kingdom impact.
“This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God.”
(1 Corinthians 4:1, ESV)
Other Key Verses on Stewardship (ESV):
May the Lord bless you as you serve Him faithfully.
Source URL: https://wingulamashahidi.org/en/2023/10/19/biblical-stewardship-what-is-a-steward-and-what-does-stewardship-mean/
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