To give the answer right at the beginning, Jesus said: “For the sons of this world are more shrewd in dealing with their own generation than the sons of light” (Luke 16:8).
In what way is the business world more shrewd – more astute – than the Christian world?
“The Parable of the Dishonest Manager” (Luke 16:1-13) gives us some obvious lessons between the sons of this age (the secular world) and the sons of light (the Christian world).
Before we consider those lessons, we should settle that Jesus didn’t share this parable in order to commend dishonesty. Rather, He commended being resolved and resourceful.
Are churches and ministries as resolved?
The dishonest manager was about to lose his job. As he considered his options, there was only one that stood out… become more dishonest for his own benefit.
Since this parable is meant to give a sharp contrast (see v. 10-13), especially in being faithful to the ultimate Master as sons of light, are churches and ministries as resolved to help others in need as this dishonest manager was resolved to help himself?
That is the main question.
The dishonest manager only thought of his own interest, completely undermining the interests of his master.
As a confronting and sobering reminder, Paul wrote in relation to Timothy: “For I have no one like him, who will be genuinely concerned for your welfare. For they all seek their own interests, not those of Jesus Christ” (Phil. 2:20-21). Paul’s “all” referred to Christians.
Generally speaking, the business world is far more shrewd when it comes to their agenda – serving money and possessions – than the sons of light are when it comes to Jesus’ agenda, serving His interests alone.
Are churches and ministries as resourceful?
Not only was the dishonest manager desperately resolved, he also became determinedly resourceful.
Desperation will often lead to finding ways to relieve one of one’s unfavorable circumstances. His dishonesty led to more and greater dishonesty… for his own benefit.
In sharp contrast: are churches and ministries as resourceful to help others in need by as many legitimate ways as possible?
When Paul was organizing a fundraiser for believers in poverty, we read: “For they gave according to their means, as I can testify, and beyond their means, of their own accord, begging us earnestly for the favor of taking part in the relief of the saints” (2 Cor. 8:3-4).
The believers in Macedonia begged Paul to help those in need.
What about you?
If your church or ministry could easily and freely receive additional funds to reach and help more people, would you make use of such an opportunity?
Actually, you’ll be a great blessing, because you’ll share classic Christian books that will encourage your audience in their faith and walk with Jesus.
And…
Your church or ministry will receive 50% for each purchase.
In order to make it appealing for your audience, there are $4.00 book deals that consist of numerous books by a particular author or are about a specific subject.
Or, you can share a $100.00 gift card for only $12.00, which gives the buyer all the books at Christ-Centered Books.
In all seriousness…
How much will your church or ministry receive if 5%, 10%, or even 15% of your email list or social media followers were to buy one book deal or the gift card?
While you can certainly do the math, here’s an overview of the gift card:
100 purchases gives you $600
250 purchases gives you $1,500
500 purchases gives you $3,000
1,000 purchases gives you $6,000
2,500 purchases gives you $15,000
5,000 purchases gives you $30,000
10,000 purchases gives you $60,000
This affiliate program will enable you to reach and help more people, without any cost or effort on your part.
Would the business world make use of such an affiliate program, especially since “the product” matches “the audience”?
If you have questions, don’t hesitate to contact me.
In Christ Alone,
Mr. Jan Blonk