One person working in an organization compared their leaders with Egyptian taskmasters. They did not give resources (raw materials) but expected to complete the quota. (Exodus 5:7-9) Stewardship is taught in at least two parables: the Parable of Ten Minas and the Parable of the Talents. (Luke 19:11-27; Matthew 25: 14-30)
Resources: In both the parables, a substantial amount is provided to each to invest and be engaged in a profitable business. God has given certain resources to all in equal measure. For example, twenty-four hours is a gift for all humans irrespective of their education, race, employment, age, nationality, and context. Talents are given to all humans and Spiritual Gifts to all believers.
Authority: Those who received talents or minas received delegated authority to use the resources according to best practices and according to the law. Sadly, some leaders do not delegate authority but seek accountability from others.
Responsibility: They were expected to go out, use their wisdom, creativity, and opportunity along with the minas/talents, and earn profit. Each person could operate in his arena of call, interest, and expertise. Those who are diligent would be able to harness all opportunities to bring maximum benefit.
Accountability: In both parables, the Master made the workers accountable. Without accountability, resources, authority, and responsibility could be unused, misused, or abused. In the Parable of Talents, one with a single talent did not even invest in a bank to earn interest but buried it.
Growth: The Master snatched the ten minas the lazy, unproductive, worthless, and foolish servant, and gave it to the servant who had twenty minas. Similarly, the man with Five talents was rewarded in the Parable of Talents. “For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away.” (Matthew 25:29)
Foolish stewards: Those leaders who give responsibility but refuse to give adequate resources and authority are foolish oppressors. They are accountable to God for their foolish stewardship.
Am I a wise multiplying steward or a lazy losing steward?