New Testament
Luke 16:2
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
So the rich man called him in and said, 'What is this I hear about you? Give an account of your management, because you may no longer be steward.'
Compare translations
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.
What Luke 16:2 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a wealthy man confronts his steward, or manager, about reports of mismanagement. The rich man demands an explanation for the steward's actions, indicating that he may lose his position. This moment highlights the importance of accountability in leadership roles. The steward is being asked to justify his actions and provide a clear account of how he has handled the resources entrusted to him. This scenario serves as a reminder that those in positions of authority must manage their responsibilities wisely and ethically, as their actions can have significant consequences. The rich man's decision to question the steward reflects a broader principle of stewardship, where individuals are expected to be responsible and transparent in their dealings, especially when managing someone else's assets. The steward's impending loss of his position emphasizes the need for diligence and integrity in all aspects of management, whether in business, personal finances, or any area where one is entrusted with the care of others' resources.
How to apply Luke 16:2 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own responsibilities and how we manage what has been entrusted to us. Whether in work, finances, or relationships, we should strive for transparency and integrity, knowing that our actions will be evaluated.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from John the Apostle's story: Mending Their Nets (Mark 1:19–20)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
John the Apostle
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Luke 16:2
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Luke 16:2
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Luke
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 16:2 teach about accountability?
Luke 16:2 emphasizes the importance of accountability in leadership roles. The rich man demands an explanation from his steward for mismanagement, highlighting that those in positions of authority must be responsible for their actions. This verse serves as a reminder that leaders are expected to manage resources wisely and be transparent about their decisions.
How can I apply the lessons from Luke 16:2 in my life?
You can apply the lessons from Luke 16:2 by reflecting on your own responsibilities, whether at work, in finances, or in personal relationships. Strive for integrity and transparency in your actions, understanding that your management of resources will be evaluated. This verse encourages you to be diligent and ethical in all areas where you hold responsibility.
What is the significance of stewardship in Luke 16:2?
Stewardship in Luke 16:2 signifies the responsibility one has when managing resources that belong to someone else. The rich man's confrontation with his steward illustrates that stewardship requires accountability and ethical management. It reminds us that we must handle entrusted resources with care and integrity, as our actions can have significant consequences.
What are the consequences of poor management as shown in Luke 16:2?
The consequences of poor management, as shown in Luke 16:2, include the potential loss of position and trust. The rich man’s decision to question the steward indicates that mismanagement can lead to serious repercussions. This serves as a warning that failing to manage responsibilities wisely can result in losing opportunities and credibility.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.