New Testament
Luke 16:7
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Then he asked another, 'And how much do you owe?' He said, '100 measures of wheat.' The manager told him, 'Take your bill and change it to 80.'
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Then said he to another, And how much owest thou? And he said, An hundred measures of wheat. And he said unto him, Take thy bill, and write fourscore.
What Luke 16:7 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this passage, a manager is interacting with a debtor who owes him a significant amount of wheat. The manager, realizing he may lose his job, decides to reduce the debtor's bill from 100 measures to 80. This act of reducing the debt can be seen as a clever move to gain favor with the debtor, ensuring that he will have allies when he is dismissed. The manager's actions highlight themes of shrewdness and the use of resources wisely. It raises questions about ethics and the nature of financial dealings, as well as the importance of relationships in business. The manager's decision to forgive part of the debt reflects a strategic approach to his predicament, showing that sometimes, bending the rules can lead to better outcomes in the long run. This story encourages readers to think about how they handle their own resources and relationships, and the impact of their decisions on others.
How to apply Luke 16:7 to your life
This passage encourages us to be wise in our dealings with others, especially in financial matters. It reminds us that sometimes, showing kindness or forgiveness can lead to stronger relationships and better outcomes. We should consider how our actions affect those around us and strive to be fair and generous.
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Keep studying Luke 16:7
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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 16:7 mean?
Luke 16:7 describes a manager who reduces a debtor's bill from 100 measures of wheat to 80. This action reflects the manager's shrewdness in trying to secure favor with the debtor, highlighting themes of resource management and the importance of relationships in financial dealings.
What is the meaning of 'fourscore' in Luke 16:7?
In Luke 16:7, 'fourscore' means eighty. It is an old-fashioned way of saying the number 80, which is the amount the manager instructs the debtor to write on their bill.
What themes are present in Luke 16:7?
Key themes in Luke 16:7 include shrewdness, forgiveness, financial dealings, and the importance of relationships. The verse encourages readers to consider how their actions can impact their connections with others.
How can I apply Luke 16:7 to my life?
You can apply Luke 16:7 by being wise in your financial interactions and considering how acts of kindness or forgiveness can strengthen your relationships. It serves as a reminder to think about the long-term effects of your decisions on others.
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