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Who then is that faithful and wise steward?

Text: Luke 12:41-48
11 January 2009

(I) THE PARABLES OF JESUS

1. Most for the multitudes (Luke 8:10)

2. But also for the disciples of the wise and faithful steward (Luke 12:42-48)

(II) THE PROTAGONIST IN THE PARABLE OF THE FAITHFUL STEWARD

1. He is described as “faithful” (Luke 12:42)

2. He is also described as “wise” (Luke 12:42)

3. He attends to the tasks assigned to him most faithfully

a) He is made steward over the master’s household ( Luke 12:42 )

b) He is to ensure that administration of the household is done faithfully

(III) THE ANTAGONIST IN THE PARABLE OF THE FAITHFUL STEWARD

1. The problem lies in his heart (Luke 12:45a)

2. His personal thoughts take precedent

a) His wrong rationalization and conclusion

“…My master is delaying his coming…” Luke 12:45b

b) His abuse of authority

“…and begins to beat the male and female servants…” Luke 12:45c

c) His misuse of things entrusted

“…and to eat and drink and be drunk” Luke 12:45d

d) He loses his perspective

“…he is not looking for him…” Luke 12:46

e) He rejects his Master’s will

“And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himselfto do according to his will…” Luke 12:47

(IV) REWARD AND PUNISHMENT

1. The faithful and wise steward

“Blessed is that servant whom his master will find so doing when he comes. Truly, I say to you that he will make him ruler over all he has.” Luke 12:43-44

2. The unfaithful and unwise steward

“And that servant who knew his master’s will, and did not prepare himself to do according to his will, shall be beaten with many stripes.” Luke 12:47

(V) THE VITAL PRINCIPLE OF FAITHFULNESS IN SERVICE

“…For everyone to whom much is given, from him much will be required; and to whom much has been committed, of him they will ask the more.” Luke 12:48

1. Much is required

2. More will be expected