Untitled Sermon (5)

Counting the Cost: The Call to Follow Jesus

Bible Passage: Lk 18:18–27

Summary: In this passage, a wealthy young ruler approaches Jesus seeking eternal life. Jesus challenges him to sell all he has and give to the poor, showing that true discipleship requires a willingness to let go of earthly possessions and attachments.

Application: This passage helps Christians reflect on what they may be holding onto that keeps them from fully following Jesus. It encourages believers to evaluate their priorities and the sacrifices they may need to make in their spiritual journey.

Teaching: The sermon can teach that following Jesus is not just about belief, but also about the willingness to sacrifice and let go of material wealth and status, which can become barriers to discipleship.

How this passage could point to Christ: This passage reveals Christ as the one who demands full allegiance and highlights His role as the giver of eternal life. It points to the ultimate cost of discipleship and how Jesus Himself exemplified sacrifice, ultimately giving His life for our salvation.

Big Idea: True discipleship requires a radical commitment that often challenges us to relinquish our worldly treasures and fully trust in Christ for our identity and worth.

Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider using Logos to delve deeper into the cultural implications of wealth in the 1st century and how that affects interpretations of the text. You might also explore commentaries that discuss the theological implications of Jesus's command to the rich young man, including potential text-critical issues related to the manuscript variants of this passage.

1. Question of Eternal Longing

Lk 18:18–21

You could begin by highlighting the young ruler's initial question, emphasizing his longing for eternal life and the assumed connection between commandment-keeping and salvation. This point sets the stage for Jesus' challenge by illuminating a common misconception that eternal security is found in adherence to the law. Reflect on how Jesus affirms the commandments while pointing towards something more profound—true devotion to God and others, hinting at the need for a heart transformation, not just outward obedience.

2. Radical Call to Surrender

Lk 18:22

Perhaps focus this point on Jesus' specific instruction to the young man to sell everything. This radical command underscores the heart of discipleship: unconditional surrender. This passage challenges listeners to examine their own lives for anything they might value over their relationship with Christ. Jesus asks for a radical shift in priorities, where allegiance to Christ surpasses all else. Encourage the audience to consider what "one thing" they may still lack in their walk with Jesus, possibly holding them back from full commitment.

3. Riches as a Restrictive Barrier

Lk 18:23–25

Maybe take this point to express the sadness of the young ruler as he walks away, burdened by his own wealth. This response illustrates how material wealth can trap and inhibit one from truly following Jesus. It's a moment to reflect on the barrier that possessions can create, not just in this rich man's life, but in ours as well. Discuss the challenge Jesus poses about rich individuals entering the kingdom, provoking thought on dependencies and what it means to trust in God alone.

4. Reliance on Divine Possibility

Lk 18:26–27

You could close with the disciples’ astonishment, pondering who can be saved if even someone so virtuous finds it difficult. Jesus' response, that what is impossible for humans is possible with God, shifts focus from human effort to divine grace. This point reassures believers of God's power to transform lives and bring about salvation. Encourage the audience to trust in God's abilities rather than their own, pointing them towards faith-filled reliance on God for overcoming life's challenges and obstacles to true discipleship.