Luke 16:6

A hundred measures of olive oil,' he answered. 'Take your bill,' said the manager. 'Sit down quickly, and write fifty.'

Study Bible

A hundred measures of olive oil,
In the context of first-century Palestine, olive oil was a valuable commodity, often used for cooking, lighting, and religious rituals. A "measure" here refers to a "bath," which is approximately 8-9 gallons or about 35 liters. Thus, a hundred measures would be a substantial amount, indicating a significant debt. Olive oil production was a key part of the economy in the region, and such a debt suggests a business transaction or a lease agreement involving agricultural produce. This reflects the agrarian society of the time, where landowners and tenants often settled accounts with produce rather than currency.

he answered.
The debtor's response indicates his acknowledgment of the debt. In the parable, this interaction highlights the relationship between the debtor and the manager, who acts on behalf of the master. The debtor's willingness to comply suggests a level of trust or desperation, as the reduction of the debt would be highly beneficial to him. This interaction can be seen as a reflection of the social and economic dynamics of the time, where debt and credit were common aspects of life.

Take your bill,
The "bill" refers to a written record of the debt, which was a common practice in ancient business transactions. Such documents were essential for maintaining accountability and ensuring that agreements were honored. The instruction to "take your bill" implies a personal involvement in the transaction, emphasizing the debtor's responsibility in the process. This phrase underscores the importance of written agreements in maintaining order and trust in economic dealings.

said the manager,
The manager, or steward, is a key figure in the parable, representing someone entrusted with the master's resources. His actions are central to the story, as he seeks to secure his future by reducing the debts of his master's debtors. This reflects the broader biblical theme of stewardship, where individuals are accountable for managing what has been entrusted to them. The manager's role also highlights the tension between self-interest and responsibility, a common theme in Jesus' teachings.

sit down quickly,
The urgency in the manager's instruction suggests a need for swift action, possibly due to the impending loss of his position. This urgency may also reflect the cultural context, where quick resolution of debts could prevent further complications or disputes. The phrase emphasizes the immediacy of the situation and the manager's desire to secure favor with the debtors before his dismissal.

and write fifty.
The reduction of the debt from a hundred measures to fifty is significant, representing a 50% discount. This act of reducing the debt can be seen as an example of shrewdness, as the manager seeks to gain favor with the debtor. In the broader context of the parable, this action raises questions about justice, mercy, and the use of resources. Theologically, it can be seen as a reflection of the grace and forgiveness offered by God, where debts are forgiven and relationships restored. This act also connects to other scriptural themes of mercy and generosity, as seen in passages like Matthew 6:12, where forgiveness of debts is linked to spiritual forgiveness.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Rich Man
In the parable, the rich man is the master who has a manager handling his affairs. He represents those in positions of authority and wealth.

2. The Manager
The central figure in the parable, the manager is accused of wasting his master's possessions and is called to account for his actions. He represents those who are stewards of resources and responsibilities.

3. The Debtor
In Luke 16:6, the debtor owes the rich man a hundred measures of olive oil. He represents those who are indebted or owe something to others.

4. The Measure of Oil
The "hundred measures of oil" is a significant debt, indicating the wealth and business dealings of the rich man. It symbolizes the material wealth and resources in the world.

5. The Parable Setting
The setting is a business transaction, reflecting the economic practices of the time and illustrating spiritual truths through everyday life.

Teaching Points

Stewardship and Accountability
As stewards of God's resources, we are accountable for how we manage what He has entrusted to us. This includes our time, talents, and treasures.

Wisdom in Financial Dealings
The manager's actions, though dishonest, demonstrate shrewdness. We are called to be wise and discerning in our financial and business dealings, ensuring they align with biblical principles.

Grace and Forgiveness
The reduction of the debtor's bill can be seen as an act of grace. We are reminded of the importance of extending grace and forgiveness to others, as we have received from God.

Eternal Perspective
The parable encourages us to consider how our earthly actions impact our eternal future. We should invest in what has lasting value in God's kingdom.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the concept of stewardship in Luke 16:6 challenge your current management of resources? Reflect on areas where you can improve.

2. In what ways can you apply the principle of accountability in your personal and professional life, as seen in the parable?

3. How does the manager's shrewdness in the parable inspire you to be more strategic in your spiritual and financial decisions?

4. Reflect on a time when you extended or received grace in a financial or relational context. How does this relate to the debtor's experience in the parable?

5. Considering the eternal perspective emphasized in the parable, what changes can you make to ensure your priorities align with God's kingdom values?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Matthew 25:14-30
This parable of the talents also deals with stewardship and accountability, emphasizing the importance of using what God has entrusted to us wisely.

1 Corinthians 4:2
This verse highlights the requirement for stewards to be found faithful, connecting to the theme of accountability in Luke 16.

Proverbs 22:7
This proverb speaks to the relationship between borrower and lender, which is relevant to the debtor's situation in the parable.