Here it is implied that mammon (or, riches) is “least,” or “little.” Again it should be pointed out that Jesus did not commend the dishonesty of the steward (see on v. 8). Lest the disciples, or others in the audience, should seize upon this parable as providing, in any measure, an excuse for dishonesty, Jesus here clearly states the profound truth that all who would be His disciples must be characterized by scrupulous integrity and diligence. According to the Midrash (Rabbah, on Ex. 3:1, Soncino ed., p. 49), God does not give a big thing to a man until He has tested him in a small matter; afterward He promotes him to a great thing. The Midrash then gives as an example the supposed words of God to David: “Thou hast been found trustworthy with thy sheep; come, therefore, and tend my sheep.”