Luke 16:2

And he called him, and said unto him, How is it that I hear this of thee? give an account of thy stewardship; for thou mayest be no longer steward.

Luke 16:2 (KJV)

Context

Jesus told the Parable of the Unjust Steward to His disciples, beginning with a rich man who had a steward, a manager entrusted with overseeing his affairs. The steward was accused of wasting the rich man’s goods, and in Luke 16:2 the master summons him and demands an explanation.

Meaning

The master’s question, “How is it that I hear this of thee?” expresses surprise and signals that the steward’s conduct has been reported and is now under review. The command to “give an account of thy stewardship” means the steward must explain how he managed what was not his own. The Greek word for stewardship (oikonomia) refers to the responsible management or administration of another person’s property. The steward is answerable for his choices, and the master will evaluate his faithfulness.

The phrase “for thou mayest be no longer steward” shows that his position is in jeopardy. Stewardship is a temporary trust, not a permanent possession. The steward’s future depends on the account he gives, and the master is prepared to remove him if he is found guilty.

Biblical connections

This verse establishes the central truth of the parable: every steward must one day render an account of their management. The principle of accountability also echoes the broader biblical teaching that God, as the ultimate Master, expects faithful management of all He gives.

Application

Luke 16:2 reminds us that we are stewards, not owners, of the resources, gifts, and opportunities God has entrusted to us. We should handle them wisely and faithfully, ready to give an account when called upon. The verse challenges us to examine how we manage our time, money, abilities, and relationships, and to live with the awareness that our stewardship will be reviewed.

Reflection

Consider what has been placed under your care. Are you managing it with the faithfulness that a steward owes to a master? The call to give an account is not meant to frighten but to focus our hearts on what truly matters: using every trust for the glory of the One who gave it.