Luke 16:11

If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true [riches]?

If {G1487} therefore {G3767} ye have {G1096} not {G3756} been {G1096} faithful {G4103} in {G1722} the unrighteous {G94} mammon {G3126}, who {G5101} will commit {G4100} to your {G5213} trust {G4100} the true {G228} riches?

So if you haven’t been trustworthy in handling worldly wealth, who is going to trust you with the real thing?

So if you have not been faithful with worldly wealth, who will entrust you with true riches?

If therefore ye have not been faithful in the unrighteous mammon, who will commit to your trust the true riches?

Commentary

Luke 16:11 (KJV) is a pivotal verse within Jesus' teaching on the proper use of material wealth, following the Parable of the Unjust Steward. It emphasizes that our handling of earthly possessions is a test of our character and a prerequisite for receiving spiritual blessings.

Context of Luke 16:11

This verse comes directly after the conclusion of the Parable of the Unjust Steward (Luke 16:1-9), where Jesus commends the steward's shrewdness (though not his dishonesty) in preparing for his future. Jesus then draws a direct application, teaching His disciples about the importance of using "unrighteous mammon" wisely. The preceding verse, Luke 16:10, states, "He that is faithful in that which is least is faithful also in much; and he that is unjust in the least is unjust also in much," setting the stage for verse 11's specific focus on wealth.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Stewardship and Faithfulness: The core message is about faithful stewardship. God observes how we manage the resources He entrusts to us, even worldly wealth, which Jesus calls "unrighteous mammon." Our faithfulness in this area is a direct indicator of our capacity for greater, spiritual responsibilities.
  • Earthly vs. Heavenly Riches: The verse draws a sharp contrast between "unrighteous mammon" (earthly, temporary wealth) and "true riches" (spiritual, eternal treasures). Jesus implies that how we handle the former determines whether we are deemed worthy of the latter. This echoes the teaching to lay up treasures in heaven, not on earth.
  • Trust and Responsibility: The question, "who will commit to your trust the true riches?" highlights the idea that spiritual blessings are entrusted to those who prove themselves reliable with lesser, material things. It's a matter of divine trust and a progression of responsibility.

Linguistic Insights

The term "mammon" (Greek: mamōnas) is a transliteration of an Aramaic word referring to wealth or property. In this context, "unrighteous mammon" does not necessarily mean money is inherently evil, but rather that it is often associated with the world's corrupt systems, temptations, and can easily become an idol. It is "unrighteous" because it belongs to this fallen world, is transient, and can be used for unrighteous purposes. The contrast with "true riches" (Greek: alēthinon plouton) clearly points to spiritual wealth, such as righteousness, eternal life, and a relationship with God, which are authentic and enduring.

Practical Application

Luke 16:11 challenges believers to re-evaluate their relationship with money and possessions. It calls us to:

  • Examine Our Stewardship: Are we managing our finances, time, and talents in a way that honors God? This includes giving, saving, spending, and investing with eternal perspective.
  • Prioritize Spiritual Wealth: This verse reminds us that material wealth is fleeting. Our ultimate focus should be on accumulating "true riches" – growing in faith, character, and service to God and others.
  • Build Trust with God: By demonstrating faithfulness in handling our earthly resources, we show God that we can be trusted with more significant, spiritual responsibilities and blessings. Our integrity in financial matters reflects our deeper spiritual commitment and our readiness for God's eternal kingdom. This principle is further underscored by Jesus' statement that no servant can serve two masters: God and mammon.

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Please note that only the commentary section is AI-generated — the main Scripture and cross-references are stored on the site and are from trusted and verified sources.

Cross-References

  • Luke 12:33 (7 votes)

    Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

  • Ephesians 3:8 (6 votes)

    Unto me, who am less than the least of all saints, is this grace given, that I should preach among the Gentiles the unsearchable riches of Christ;

  • Proverbs 8:18 (6 votes)

    Riches and honour [are] with me; [yea], durable riches and righteousness.

  • Proverbs 8:19 (6 votes)

    My fruit [is] better than gold, yea, than fine gold; and my revenue than choice silver.

  • James 2:5 (6 votes)

    Hearken, my beloved brethren, Hath not God chosen the poor of this world rich in faith, and heirs of the kingdom which he hath promised to them that love him?

  • Luke 18:22 (5 votes)

    Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.

  • Luke 16:9 (5 votes)

    And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.