Paul's Example: A Sacred Trust

In the writings of Paul, the word oikonomos is given its fullest significance. Paul sees his responsibility for preaching the gospel as a divine trust:

"For if I preach the gospel, I have nothing to boast of, for I am under compulsion; for woe is me if I do not preach the gospel" (1 Corinthians 9:17).

Administering God's Grace

Paul refers to his call from God as the administration — the stewardship — of the grace of God, for a ministry of the divine mystery revealed in Christ:

"...that is, the mystery made known to me by revelation... the administration of God's grace that was given to me for you" (Ephesians 3:2).

Paul portrays God as the master of a great household, wisely administering it through Paul himself as the obedient servant of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Not Our Own Strength

Once we are called and placed into the body of Jesus Christ, the stewardship required of us is not a result of our own power or ability. The strength, inspiration, and growth in the management of our lives must come from God through the Holy Spirit in us — otherwise our labor is in vain, and any growth in stewardship becomes self-righteous, human growth instead of Spirit-led growth.

Reflect

What has God specifically entrusted to you — not just financially, but in skills, relationships, and opportunities? How are you stewarding that trust?