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ASSIGNMENT INSTRUCTIONS:
The Importance of Striving to Become an Exemplary Steward. ▪ 3,500 – 4,000 words ▪ APA-
▪ Minimum of eight scholarly references
▪ Integrate data and information completed in the template and supported by scholarly and/or biblical references. ▪ Add your completed templates as appendices to your research paper
HOW TO WORK ON THIS ASSIGNMENT (EXAMPLE ESSAY / DRAFT)
Introduction:
Being a steward means taking responsibility for something that does not belong to you. In the context of our world, it means taking responsibility for managing the resources we have been given by God. The resources may include our time, talents, finances, environment, and relationships. To become an exemplary steward is to excel in managing these resources effectively and ethically. This paper aims to explore the importance of striving to become an exemplary steward in light of biblical principles and contemporary research.
Biblical Perspective on Stewardship:
The concept of stewardship is deeply rooted in the Judeo-Christian tradition. In the Bible, God has given humanity the responsibility to manage the earth and its resources. In Genesis 1:28, God blesses humanity and commands them to “be fruitful and multiply, and fill the earth and subdue it.” This mandate implies that humans have been given the authority to manage the earth’s resources, but it also implies that they have been entrusted with the responsibility to care for the earth and its inhabitants.
Furthermore, the Bible teaches that God is the owner of all things, and humans are His stewards. In Psalm 24:1, it says, “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.” Therefore, the resources we have are not ours to waste or abuse. Instead, we are called to manage them wisely and ethically, with a view to serving God and others.
The Parable of the Talents in Matthew 25:14-30 provides an excellent example of the concept of stewardship. In this parable, a man goes on a journey and entrusts his possessions to his servants. To one, he gives five talents, to another two, and to another one, according to their abilities. When he returns, the man rewards the servants who have used their talents wisely and punishes the one who buried his talent in the ground. The parable teaches that God expects us to use the resources He has given us to produce good fruit and to advance His kingdom.
Contemporary Research on Stewardship:
Contemporary research also supports the importance of becoming an exemplary steward. A study by the World Wildlife Fund found that human consumption has exceeded the earth’s regenerative capacity. The report states that “humans are using 1.5 times the amount of resources that the earth can sustainably produce.” The report calls for a shift towards sustainable consumption and production patterns to ensure the long-term health of the planet.
Another study by the Barna Group found that Christians are not always good stewards of their finances. The study found that only 10% of Christians tithe regularly, and only 17% of Christians give to their church regularly. The study also found that Christians tend to spend their money on material possessions rather than charitable causes. The study suggests that Christians need to be more intentional about using their financial resources to support God’s work in the world.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, becoming an exemplary steward is a vital aspect of the Christian life. It involves managing the resources God has given us in a way that honors Him and serves others. As stewards, we are called to use our time, talents, finances, environment, and relationships wisely and ethically. We are also called to care for the earth and its inhabitants, recognizing that everything we have belongs to God. Contemporary research supports the importance of becoming an exemplary steward, particularly in the areas of environmental sustainability and financial stewardship. By striving to become exemplary stewards, we can contribute to the flourishing of God’s creation and the advancement of His kingdom.
References:
Barna Group. (2017). Christians are often terrible stewards of their money. Relevant Magazine. https://www.re
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