The principle of stewardship is a foundational concept in the Bible, emphasizing the responsibility of humans to manage and care for the resources and gifts that God has entrusted to them. This principle is woven throughout Scripture, highlighting the role of believers as caretakers of God's creation, time, talents, and treasures.

Biblical Foundation

The concept of stewardship is first introduced in the creation narrative. In Genesis 1:28 , God commands Adam and Eve, "Be fruitful and multiply, and 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 mandate establishes humanity's role as stewards of the earth, entrusted with the care and management of God's creation.

In the New Testament, Jesus further elaborates on stewardship through parables. The Parable of the Talents (Matthew 25:14-30) illustrates the expectation that believers will wisely manage the resources given to them. The master in the parable entrusts his servants with varying amounts of money, expecting them to invest and multiply it. The faithful servants are rewarded for their diligence, while the unfaithful servant is reprimanded for his negligence.

Stewardship of Resources

The Bible teaches that all resources belong to God, and humans are merely caretakers. Psalm 24:1 declares, "The earth is the LORD’s, and the fullness thereof, the world and all who dwell therein." This understanding calls believers to manage resources—whether financial, natural, or personal—in a way that honors God and aligns with His purposes.

Financial stewardship is a significant aspect of this principle. Proverbs 3:9 instructs, "Honor the LORD with your wealth and with the firstfruits of all your harvest." This verse underscores the importance of prioritizing God in financial matters, encouraging believers to give generously and manage their finances wisely.

Stewardship of Time and Talents

Time is another resource that believers are called to steward. Ephesians 5:15-16 advises, "Pay careful attention, then, to how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, redeeming the time, because the days are evil." This passage emphasizes the importance of using time purposefully and in alignment with God's will.

Similarly, believers are entrusted with various talents and spiritual gifts, which are to be used for the edification of the church and the advancement of God's kingdom. 1 Peter 4:10 states, "As good stewards of the manifold grace of God, each of you should use whatever gift he has received to serve one another." This directive encourages believers to actively employ their God-given abilities in service to others.

Stewardship of the Gospel

The principle of stewardship extends to the spiritual realm, particularly concerning the Gospel. Believers are entrusted with the message of salvation and are called to share it with others. In 1 Corinthians 4:1-2 , Paul writes, "So then, men ought to regard us as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. Now it is required of stewards that they be found faithful." This passage highlights the responsibility of believers to faithfully proclaim and live out the Gospel.

Accountability and Reward

The Bible consistently teaches that stewards will be held accountable for their management of God's resources. Romans 14:12 reminds believers, "So then, each of us will give an account of himself to God." This accountability underscores the seriousness of the stewardship role and the expectation of faithfulness.

Moreover, Scripture promises rewards for faithful stewardship. In Luke 12:42-44 , Jesus says, "Who then is the faithful and wise manager, whom the master puts in charge of his servants to give them their portion at the proper time? Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns. Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions." This promise of reward serves as an encouragement for believers to diligently fulfill their stewardship responsibilities.