Integrity in stewardship is a fundamental biblical principle that emphasizes the responsible and honest management of resources, gifts, and responsibilities entrusted to individuals by God. This concept is deeply rooted in Scripture and is exemplified through various biblical narratives and teachings.

Biblical Foundation

The Bible presents stewardship as a divine mandate, beginning with the creation account. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands humanity to "fill the earth and subdue it; rule over the fish of the sea and the birds of the air and every creature that crawls upon the earth." This directive establishes humans as stewards of God's creation, tasked with managing it with care and integrity.

Parables and Teachings of Jesus

Jesus frequently addressed the theme of stewardship in His parables, underscoring the importance of integrity. In the Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30), Jesus illustrates the expectation of faithful stewardship. The master entrusts his servants with varying amounts of talents, expecting them to manage and multiply them. The servants who act with integrity and diligence are rewarded, while the one who fails to do so faces consequences. This parable highlights the principle that God expects His stewards to act responsibly and with integrity, using their resources for His glory.

Old Testament Examples

The Old Testament provides numerous examples of integrity in stewardship. Joseph, for instance, is a model of faithful stewardship. Despite being sold into slavery, Joseph rises to a position of authority in Potiphar's house and later in Egypt. His integrity is evident in Genesis 39:4-6 , where he is entrusted with all of Potiphar's household affairs. Joseph's unwavering commitment to integrity, even in difficult circumstances, demonstrates the blessings that accompany faithful stewardship.

New Testament Exhortations

The New Testament further emphasizes the call to integrity in stewardship. In 1 Corinthians 4:2 , Paul writes, "Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." This verse underscores the expectation that stewards must be trustworthy and reliable. Additionally, in 1 Peter 4:10 , believers are encouraged to "use whatever gift he has received to serve others, as faithful stewards of God’s grace in its various forms." This passage highlights the diverse ways in which Christians are called to exercise stewardship, always with integrity and a focus on serving others.

Moral and Ethical Implications

Integrity in stewardship extends beyond financial or material resources to encompass all areas of life, including time, talents, and relationships. It requires a commitment to ethical behavior, transparency, and accountability. Proverbs 11:3 states, "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the perversity of the faithless destroys them." This wisdom literature emphasizes that integrity serves as a guiding principle for righteous living and effective stewardship.

Consequences of Lacking Integrity

The Bible also warns of the consequences of failing to uphold integrity in stewardship. Ananias and Sapphira, in Acts 5:1-11 , provide a sobering example. Their deceit in misrepresenting their financial contribution to the early church results in severe judgment. This account serves as a cautionary tale about the dangers of dishonesty and the importance of maintaining integrity in all dealings.

Conclusion

Integrity in stewardship is a vital biblical principle that calls believers to manage their God-given resources with honesty, faithfulness, and accountability. Through the teachings of Jesus, the examples of biblical figures, and the exhortations of the apostles, Scripture consistently affirms the importance of integrity in fulfilling the divine mandate of stewardship.