Matthew 19:27-30 / Mark 10:28-31 / Luke 18:28-30…
The reward of true riches…
Peter attests to what Jesus said could be done by God. The disciples had been converted and have indeed left everything behind to follow Jesus, unlike the rich man. The truth is that eternal life is not inherited by good works. It is received by faith in those whom God’s grace works the impossible. Radical obedience is the result.
But not all people are called to give away all they have. Indeed, very few are. The problem is not the abundance of wealth or the absence of wealth. The problem is the love of wealth. Even among Christians, there will always be the poor (Mark 14:7), and there will always be the wealthy (1 Timothy 6:17-19). Nowhere do we find Jesus calling us to all live the same kind of life. Jesus calls some to radically sell all and give to the poor, but not all. He calls some to lifestyles of radical wealth in order to create more wealth so that His kingdom work can be financed. What we are called to lose is whatever it is that might keep us lost.
You may have to leave behind some earthly things; but you will gain spiritual and eternal things. Jesus said that we would receive many rewards. The bountiful blessings of now include a new relationship with God and a new spiritual family of fellow disciples that will last beyond death. Jesus wasn’t promising material wealth, He was promoting spiritual wealth. And eternal life with God will be a glorious existence that cannot be compared to earthly blessing.
Certainly, we need to be practically realistic about what we’re calling people to. Coming to Christ and giving up the control of your life can be very painful. But whatever the cost of discipleship, the rewards of discipleship more than make up for it (Romans 8:16-18 / 2 Corinthians 4:17-18 / 1 Peter 1:3-9).
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This passage causes me to think about "Christians" who believe God is calling them to the mission field and to leave their spouse and children at home for months and years at a time to fend for themselves. They would probably use this passage as a defense for their actions. The bible teaches us not to put anything or anyone above Christ but that doesn't mean we shirk our responsibilities. I don't believe God would ever condone that.
Great application, honey.
I have been struggling with that application MrsEvenSo. I see so many friends feeling individually called to serve God somewhere, raising money, doing fundraisers, etc, all to leave their young families for months at a time with no income. I cannot see how this is God-honoring. I don't see how this abandonment disciples their children either. So thank you for that.
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