How do true followers of the Lord view "filthy mammon" – that is, money, possessions, and the like? For supposedly, the Lord Jesus Christ calls us to make friends with unrighteous mammon (Luke 16:9). Isn't that a contradiction in terms, when the Lord later instructs us to hate mammon (Luke 16:13)?
The parable of the unjust steward (Luke 16:1-13) poses problems according to traditional translations, as it contradicts various biblical principles in the New Testament. The unjust steward commits several moral transgressions, gains advantages through deception, and is praised by his master for doing so. It can hardly be that this is supposed to be a model for people in Christ. For we do not earn our place in heaven through financial manipulation.
In truth, the Lord does not command us to make friends with unrighteous mammon, but ultimately questions this as an impossible path. The unjust steward is therefore not praised for his manipulation, but for his foresight, which he exercised through a clever move. If we apply this fact to spiritual people, we should be concerned about whether we are truly in Christ. For only our being and resting in Christ enables us to enter the kingdom of God.
But the Lord Jesus Christ has incorporated even deeper meaning into this parable. It is about the correct way to deal with "mammon," or rather, that our true spiritual condition is revealed by our relationship to "mammon." Countless believers live under enormous illusions – and religious illusion is widespread and highly fatal. Ultimately, it is not about highly sophisticated theological knowledge – but simply about our real behavior in everyday life – e.g., how we deal with "mammon," i.e., our finances. Those who do not deal with it in accordance with the Lord's will never possess spiritual authority, bear true fruit of the Spirit, etc.
This parable contains some highly sensitive areas of tension. What, for example, about the "tithe principle" practiced everywhere? How should one deal with "mammon" correctly? A very profound and momentous parable, interpreted with pastoral competence and conveying some completely new perspectives – with massive consequences!
A brief and concise summary of this lecture can also be found under the category "Study Topics" > Am I telling you to make friends with unrighteous mammon - Lk.16,9 (html/pdf)
The lecture was filmed afterwards and is available to watch and study on Bruno Schaer Ministries' YouTube channel: 
