Stewardship
Shane Silva
Part of Why Give
April 22, 2024

Big Idea: What does it mean to be a

?


1. Defining our stewardship (1 Corinthians 4:1-5)

1 This is how one should regard us, as servants of Christ and stewards of the mysteries of God. 2 Moreover, it is required of stewards that they be found faithful. 3 But with me it is a very small thing that I should be judged by you or by any human court. In fact, I do not even judge myself. 4 For I am not aware of anything against myself, but I am not thereby acquitted. It is the Lord who judges me. 5 Therefore do not pronounce judgment before the time, before the Lord comes, who will bring to light the things now hidden in darkness and will disclose the purposes of the heart. Then each one will receive his commendation from God. —1 Corinthians 4:1-5

  • a. Who am I steward for (4:1)
  • b. What am I a steward of (4:1)
  • c. How am I to perform my stewardship (4:2)

Our stewardship should be a

of Christ’s . To be an effective Christ follower it must be the driving force that orders our .

Who owns what and

?

2. God’s deed to what He owns (Psalm 24:1-2)

1 A Psalm of David. The earth is the LORD’s and the fullness thereof, the world and those who dwell therein, 2 for he has founded it upon the seas and established it upon the rivers. —Psalm 24:1-2

  • a. His act of creation is established (24:1)
  • b. Ownership of His creation is ratified (24:1)
  • c. He is the sole name on the deed (24:2)

Once we establish that

our role becomes clear.

How then are we to live

?

3. Living out our stewardship (1 Peter 4:7-11)

7 The end of all things is at hand; therefore be self-controlled and sober-minded for the sake of your prayers. 8 Above all, keep loving one another earnestly, since love covers a multitude of sins. 9 Show hospitality to one another without grumbling. 10 As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace: 11 whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies–in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ. To him belong glory and dominion forever and ever. Amen. —1 Peter 4:7-11

  • a. Identify what you’ve been given to be a steward of (4:10)
  • b. It does not matter what you’ve been given to steward, what matters is your use of it (4:11)
  • c. Our stewardship should always result in service (4:11)

Our stewardship was meant to be used to serve

, , and to show a lost world the and contentment we have in this world has to offer.


Small Group Questions

  1. What did God teach you through this passage and message? Share the work of God in your heart with the group.

  2. What questions did this passage and sermon raise in your mind?

  3. Why do we struggle with the concept of stewardship vs. ownership?

  4. How has being a steward with what God has personally entrusted to you, given you a sense of freedom?

  5. If you had to pick one, which of the following three areas of your life would you say is the most challenging to see yourself as a steward and not an owner?
    a. Time
    b. Talents / Gifting / Abilities
    c. Treasure

  6. In 1 Peter 4:7-11 Peter teaches us that our stewardship for God should always result in service to God. What are you stewarding for the Lord that brings you the most joy?