9-21-2025
Luke 16: 1 – 13
PHilemon 1: 1 – 16
Philemon 1: 1 – 16 Using Earthly Opportunities for Eternal Impact
Join us this week as we commit to becoming a good steward of what God has blessed us with.
In Luke 16:1–13, Jesus tells the story of the unjust steward—a man who, though dishonest, used foresight to secure his future. The lesson is not about dishonesty but about urgency, wisdom, and planning. Believers are called to be good stewards of everything God has entrusted to us: our resources, our time, our gifts, and even our relationships. Faithfulness in small things leads to greater opportunities, while divided loyalties reveal where our hearts truly are. Jesus makes it clear—we cannot serve both God and money; we must decide who our true master is.
In Philemon 1:1–16, Paul demonstrates what faithful stewardship of relationships looks like. He appeals for Onesimus, a runaway slave who had come to faith in Christ, urging Philemon to no longer see him as property but as a beloved brother. Paul does not command, but instead appeals out of love, showing that the gospel reshapes human relationships with grace, mercy, and reconciliation. What was once broken can be made whole when Christ is at the center.
Together these passages remind us that every earthly opportunity—whether through resources or relationships—is a chance to make an eternal impact. Our stewardship, our faithfulness, and our reconciliation with others all testify to the transforming power of Christ.
Challenge Statement
This week, take stock of what God has placed in your hands—your finances, your time, your influence, and your relationships. Ask yourself: Am I stewarding these for myself, or for eternity? Choose today to serve God over mammon, to use your blessings for His kingdom, and to extend forgiveness and love in Christ. The world does not need more Christians who hoard, judge, or divide. It needs disciples who live transformed—faithful stewards who shine with grace, mercy, and love, leaving an eternal impact that points directly to Jesus.
Stewardship Requires Wisdom and Faithfulness
Jesus calls us to handle our time, money, and opportunities with foresight and faithfulness. How we use even the smallest blessings reveals whether we are ready to be entrusted with greater, eternal responsibilities.
The Gospel Transforms Relationships
Paul’s appeal to Philemon shows that in Christ, broken relationships can be healed. No longer slave or master, we are brothers and sisters in the Lord. The gospel redefines how we see and treat one another.
Our Earthly Opportunities Carry Eternal Impact
Every resource, trial, and relationship is a chance to glorify God. Whether through generosity, service, or reconciliation, we are called to use what we have today to leave an eternal mark for Christ.