New Testament
Luke 16:4
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, the steward realizes he is about to lose his job and is thinking strategically about his future.
- Author
- Luke the physician
- Written
- Around AD 60-62
- Genre
- Gospel and history
- Original Audience
- Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
I am determined what to do, so that when I am removed from the stewardship, they will welcome me into their homes.
I am resolved what to do, that, when I am put out of the stewardship, they may receive me into their houses.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the steward realizes he is about to lose his job and is thinking strategically about his future. He decides to act wisely by reducing the debts of his master's debtors, hoping that they will be grateful and take him in when he is dismissed. This reflects a clever but morally questionable approach to securing his future. The steward's actions highlight the importance of planning ahead and using one's resources wisely, even if the methods are not entirely ethical. His resolve to act shows a sense of urgency and a desire to ensure he is not left without support after losing his position. This story serves as a reminder that while we should be prudent and resourceful, we must also consider the moral implications of our actions and the impact they have on others. Explore related wisdom.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Luke 16:4 to your life
This verse encourages us to think ahead and make wise decisions in our lives. While planning for the future is important, we must also ensure that our actions align with our values and ethics. Consider how you can use your resources wisely to benefit yourself and others.
Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Luke 16:4 mean?
Luke 16:4 shows a steward who, facing job loss, plans to reduce his master's debtors' obligations to secure his future. His actions reflect a strategic but questionable approach to ensure he has support after losing his position.
What is the meaning of stewardship in Luke 16:4?
Stewardship in Luke 16:4 refers to the management of resources or responsibilities entrusted to someone. The steward is responsible for managing his master's assets and must navigate his impending dismissal wisely.
How does Luke 16:4 relate to planning for the future?
Luke 16:4 highlights the necessity of thinking ahead and making strategic decisions in the face of uncertainty. It encourages individuals to consider how their actions today can impact their future security.
What lessons can we learn from Luke 16:4?
From Luke 16:4, we learn the importance of being resourceful and planning for the future. However, it also serves as a reminder to evaluate the morality of our actions and their effects on others.

The Book of Luke
Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold
In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.
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