Definition: And I say unto you, Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness; that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.
Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Luke 16:9. It's a really important warning about living a life that prioritizes money and things over what truly matters – God’s love and purpose. Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying, “Don't chase after wealth and possessions (the "mammon" part) without considering what’s really important – God.” It warns against putting your happiness and well-being solely on material things. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “Luke 16:9” : This is the specific verse we're focusing on. “And I say unto you…” : This is Jesus speaking, setting a serious tone. He’s telling us something important. “…Make to yourselves friends of the mammon of unrighteousness…” : “Mammon” means money or wealth. This part suggests that focusing too much on money can lead you down a path where you're not truly happy and fulfilled, and it can become an addiction. It’s about prioritizing things that aren’t inherently good – like riches – over what is truly valuable: God’s love and a meaningful life. “…that, when ye fail, they may receive you into everlasting habitations.” : This is the crucial part. “Habitation” means a place to live – a home, a heavenly place. It's saying that if you become too focused on material things and lose sight of God, you’ll end up in a place where you’re not truly welcomed or comfortable. You might be stuck in a life filled with hardship and disappointment. In simpler terms, the verse is advising us to: Don't chase wealth for its own sake. It shouldn’t be your main goal in life. Seek true happiness and fulfillment through God’s love and purpose. It should be about serving Him, loving others, and living a righteous life – things that are far more important than money. Why is this important? Jesus talks about this idea often throughout the Bible. It's about recognizing that true richness isn't found in possessions but in relationships with God and in following His teachings. It’s a reminder to prioritize spiritual values over material ones, because ultimately, those are the things that will truly sustain us. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of what "unrighteousness" might look like?