Luke 16:13

Afrikaans Bible (ABA) 2007 (Bybel vir almal)

'n Werker kan nie vir twee persone werk nie, want hy sal niks hou van die een persoon nie en hy sal baie hou van die ander persoon, óf hy sal hard werk vir die een persoon en hy sal niks wil doen vir die ander persoon nie. Julle kan nie vir God dien en óók dink geld en goed is ook so belangrik soos Hy nie.”

What Does This Mean?

This verse from Luke says that you can't serve two masters because eventually, you'll prioritize one over the other. Jesus is speaking here and warns against serving both God and wealth (mammon). The key message is to choose where your ultimate loyalty lies.

Explained for Children

Imagine having two best friends who always want different things from you. You can't give all of your time and love to both equally, so you'll end up liking one friend more than the other. Jesus says it's like that with God and money; you have to pick which one is most important.

Historical Background

This verse appears in the Gospel of Luke, written by Luke around 80-100 AD. It was directed towards early Christians who were grappling with material wealth and spiritual devotion within a Roman context where wealth could bring both influence and temptation.

Living It Out Today

Consider a modern scenario where an individual is torn between advancing their career for more money or investing time in faith-based activities that might not offer financial gain. This verse suggests making a choice that aligns with one's core values, such as prioritizing spiritual growth over material success.

Topics

• loyalty
• wealth
• spirituality
• priorities
• servitude
• choice

Related Verses

• Matthew 6:24
• Deuteronomy 5:7-10
• Mark 8:36
• Proverbs 11:4
• James 4:4

Frequently Asked Questions

What is mammon according to Luke 16:13?

Mammon refers to wealth or riches, often used in a negative sense as an idol that can distract from spiritual devotion.

Can one serve God and still be wealthy?

While it's possible to have wealth and follow God, the verse cautions against letting material possessions become a higher priority than divine service.

How does this apply to career choices?

When choosing careers or jobs, one should ensure that their decisions align with their spiritual values rather than just pursuing financial gain.

Is there historical evidence of people facing these dilemmas?

Yes, in ancient times as well as today, individuals have struggled between material wealth and spiritual commitments, reflecting the tension Luke addresses here.