Luke 16:9 as a General Principle with Dual Application

Luke 16:9 (AICNT) reads “[And] I say to you, make friends for yourselves from the unrighteous wealth, so that when it fails, they may receive you into the eternal dwellings.” In the context of the preceding parable of the unrighteous manager in Luke 16:1-8, the meaning, although having a worldly application more profoundly, has an eternal one. With Jesus's elaboration later in verses 12-15, the eternal one becomes more clear. It is a worldly or dual application that may not be clear or may trouble some readers.

Regarding the interpretation of verse 9, I believe it is a general principle that can be applied in an earthly frame of reference as well as a heavenly one. The hint about it being a dual application or general principle is the use of the plural pronoun “they.” In addition to the eternal application, the parable suggests there is also an earthly one. Of course, Jesus is emphasizing the eternal. But how it applies to the manager is an earthly one.

This verse can be interpreted to have a dual application:

Earthly Perspective: 

From an earthly viewpoint, Jesus is advising the use of worldly wealth (“mammon of unrighteousness”) in a manner that can cultivate relationships and goodwill. This pragmatic approach suggests that resources should be used wisely to support and help others, thereby building a network of friends who can offer assistance and support in times of need.

Eternal Perspective: 

From an eternal perspective, the verse implies that how one manages worldly wealth has spiritual consequences. By using material resources to aid others, particularly those in need, believers can lay up treasures in heaven. The “everlasting habitations” refer to the eternal reward and welcome in the afterlife. It underscores the principle that generosity and stewardship of earthly possessions can lead to spiritual rewards and eternal fellowship with God.

How can “they” be understood?

Friends Made Through Generosity: 

One interpretation is that “they” refers to the friends made through the wise and generous use of earthly wealth (“mammon of unrighteousness”). The idea is that by helping others with your resources, you build relationships and goodwill.

Heavenly Beings or Saints: 

Another interpretation is that “they” could refer to heavenly beings or saints who are in the presence of God. In this view, the verse suggests that the way you use your resources on earth is observed by heavenly beings, and when you die, they are the ones who will welcome you into eternal life, acknowledging the righteous use of your possessions.

General Concept: 

A broader interpretation is that “they” doesn't refer to specific individuals but to the general concept. It emphasizes the principle that generous actions lead to rewards and security.

What about “Eternal Habitations,” and how can that be understood with the dual application?

Eternal Perspective: 

The primary interpretation is that “everlasting habitations” refers to eternal life and the rewards in heaven. Jesus is emphasizing the importance of using earthly resources wisely and generously, which will lead to spiritual rewards.

Temporal Application: 

While the primary interpretation is eternal, there can be a secondary, more temporal application in the sense that the relationships and goodwill created by generous and righteous use of wealth can have immediate, earthly benefits. These benefits could include support and hospitality from those helped, reflecting the idea of being received into “homes” or “shelters” of friends made through acts of kindness. This can further be elaborated as follows:

1. Temporal Security and Influence: 

In a temporal sense, the homes and resources of the wealthy could be seen as more stable and enduring due to their financial power. Wealth can provide a degree of security and influence that allows for more permanent dwellings and a stable lifestyle. Therefore, “eternal tents” might be understood as metaphorically referring to the lasting impact and security that wealth can provide in this life.

2. Sustained Relationships: 

The idea could extend to the relationships built through the wise and generous use of wealth. By using wealth to build and sustain friendships and alliances, a person might ensure a lasting network of support and hospitality, which could be metaphorically referred to as “eternal tents” in a temporal sense.

3. Reputation and Legacy: 

Wealth can also create a lasting legacy or reputation. Philanthropic actions, charitable contributions, and the establishment of institutions (like hospitals, schools, etc.) funded by wealth can have enduring impacts that outlast the individual's life, contributing to a form of something lasting, although not eternal. 

Jesus did associate with the wealthy

Jesus did dine with Pharisees on several occasions, and He attended feasts where Pharisees were present. Here are a few notable examples:

Dinner at Simon the Pharisee's House (Luke 7:36-50):

Jesus was invited to dine at the house of Simon the Pharisee. During this meal, a sinful woman anointed Jesus' feet with perfume, and Jesus used the occasion to teach about forgiveness and love.

Dinner at a Pharisee's House on the Sabbath (Luke 14:1-24):

Jesus went to eat at the house of a prominent Pharisee on the Sabbath. During this meal, He healed a man suffering from dropsy and taught about humility, hospitality, and the Kingdom of God.

Dinner at Another Pharisee's House (Luke 11:37-54):

A Pharisee invited Jesus to dine with him, and during the meal, Jesus spoke critically about the hypocrisy of the Pharisees and teachers of the law.

These examples indicate that Jesus did dine with Pharisees and attended feasts with them. He had a willingness to eat and converse with them, despite their frequent opposition to his teaching.