The liturgical reading for this day rightly introduces a break at verse 39, making it part of an introduction for the next section which we are made to understand would apply to leaders of the Christian community. The use of "pistos oikonomos" (singular: a majordomo, a steward) in place of "doulous" (servant); is an indication that Luke has in mind those who are put in charge of the community. But while the oikonomos is also a douloV (v.45), he however is still placed in charge of minor servants (paidas and paidiskas, servant-boys and servant-girls).
Verses 47-48a is best understood as applying to lesser servants who get their orders from the steward.
The servant who is made a steward is described as trustworthy and wise. He is the one who has been given much and from whom much will be asked (v. 48b). He is put in charge of household services (therapeias), and is expected "to give the measure of grain on time." Verse 43 is a macharism pronounced over the steward who ils found doing his job. Verses 44-46 however sounds as a warning to such a steward who abuses his authority.
The "dynamics" of a steward turning unfaithful (not worthy of trust, apistos, v. 46) is described in stages:
- first, he begins to think that the owner will delay in returning;
- then, he begins to take advantage of his power over the lesser servants;
- he eats and drinks (to excess) from the owner's pantry.
The steward begins to be unfaithful when he begins to think that the owner will be delayed. Perhaps, Luke here is answering a concern raised by the delay of the Parousia. The answer, however, is quite consistent with the reticence of the Lord about his unscheduled arrival. In any case, delayed Parousia or not, it is still unexpected and sudden. The untrustworthy steward will be put in his place among those not to be trusted, and given the proper number of lashes as required.
Perhaps, this passage is best understood with the exhortations given to "ministers" of the early Christian communities such as 1 Peter 5:2-4 or 1 Tim 3:8-13. These passages are directed to the elders and deacons respectively.
