... the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light. Luke 16:8. The first time I read this story with concentration, I wondered why Christ drew such a conclusion from such a story; In fact, it is one of the few passages of the Bible that defied my understanding for months until I confronted my Pastor for illumination. You know the background of the story is a portrayal of dishonesty, fraud and fiduciary betrayal. It is a parable of a steward, whom, upon realising his position is at stake devised an intelligent plot to stay in office. He doctored a report that helped him to maintain his position and yet, in our text, Christ commends him and uses his example to upbraid the children of the kingdom. Is Christ then encouraging us to be fraudulent and dishonest? That be far from Him. Christ cannot teach such a thing. What lesson does he want us to draw from this parable then? Christ want us to look at the spirit of the parable not the words. He want us to consider the principle not the evil practice of that ungodly steward. What did the ungodly steward want to accomplish? To maintain his job in spite of the foreboding odds. Did he achieve it? Yes. How? By all the means available to him and at whatever cost. This is where the lesson comes to light. Unbelievers will stop at nothing to achieve their goals. They will lie, cheat, maim, betray, conspire, plot, risk life and limb, spend, kill etc. to achieve their earthly objective just because of the fleeting benefits. ... the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light because believers are not so determined in running the heavenly race as sinners are in pursuing their objectives. You see all the terrorism going on? People are pushing thousands or even millions of dollars into it just to sustain their operations. Others are at the forefront to risk life and limb fighting to achieve a diabolic agenda. Political party and football club supporters are prepared to loose their all to keep their parties in power or clubs in good position. How much of your time, talent and treasure do you give to cushion evangelism, church projects, missionary activities, air broadcasts etc. How willing and enthusiastic are you about the things of God? You see how the children of this world are in their generation wiser than the children of light? If your zeal, consecration, commitment and contribution are put into the scales to be weighed vis-a-vis that of the children of this world, how will the balance be? I know there are many Christians who can single-handedly build churches, sponsor missions and do a lot for God and His Kingdom. But they do little. When they contribute a few dime above the average contributor, they feel theyve done very well. Remember, God is not going to judge you on the basis of how better you have done in comparison with another, but by His divine standard which is according to your several abilities because to whom much is given... Christ taught us that the kingdom of God demands our all. the kingdom of heaven is like unto a merchant man, seeking goodly pearls: Who, when he had found one pearl of great price, went and sold all that he had, and bought it. Matthew 13:45,46. There was never a time in history when Christian commitment was highly needed as today. False religions are sweeping souls to hell and we need to rise to dowse the evil flame for righteousness to shine on every street and corner. It can be done. The days are getting short, let the message of salvation ring everywhere. People must get born again, destinies have to change from hell to heaven. It will take the undivided effort of you and I. Will you do it?
Posted on: Sun, 11 Jan 2015 21:50:38 +0000
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