Lk 16:9-15
God or mammon: Applying the parable of the dishonest steward, Jesus recommends the wise use of wealth. Those who have money should use it to make friends, like the steward did in the parable, so that when it is all used up, they will be welcomed into heaven.
Those who are in positions of authority must be faithful in their use of wealth. If one cannot use riches to make friends in this world, then how can God trust that person with the wealth of the kingdom of heaven? People are stewards of whatever God gives them.
Finally, no servant can serve two masters: God and wealth. Whichever master a person chooses to serve indicates upon whom or what he or she depends. According to Jesus, a true follower of his is dependent on God alone.
The Pharisees hold that wealth is a sign of God’s special love. Prosperity is an indication of righteousness. According to Jesus, however, it is not the outer appearance, riches, that is important; what matters is what is in the heart. Luke is calling attention to the hypocrisy of the Pharisees, who look like they are serving God but are, in effect, servants of mammon.
Wealth, according to Luke, is not necessarily a sign of God’s blessing or righteousness. Only an investigation of the heart can reveal authentic righteousness. Nevertheless, those with wealth have an obligation to share what they have with those who have none. In this way they serve one master, God, and provide for their being welcomed into his kingdom.