Untitled Sermon (2)

Introduction

Good Morning! We are in our series in the book of Matthew; Following Jesus.

In many books, possibly your bible - Chapters 14-20 if titled the ‘Revelation of the King.’

Jesus, and his disciples, are on the move towards Jerusalem and ultimately the cross.

Jesus in all that he does he is revealing Himself to the world.

Jesus is continually mentoring his disciples while on this journey, showing them, telling them, leading them into experiences.

Jesus in all that he does he is revealing Himself to the world.

Jesus as saviour of his people; consistently points people to his mission, the cross.

The passage before Jesus used children as examples of what our faith is to look like;

In fact lets read it because its relevant:

Jesus has revealed and displayed his identity as King, he has continued on his mission of establishing his kingdom declaring the values of his kingdom.

Jesus, and his disciples, are on the move towards Jerusalem and ultimately the cross.

13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.

Jesus, and his disciples, are on the move towards Jerusalem and ultimately the cross.

14 But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” 15 And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left. [1]

Jesus is continually mentoring his disciples while on this journey, showing them, telling them, leading them into experiences which they maybe understand at the time – but defiantly have some of those ‘aha’ moments later.

The passage before Jesus used children as examples of what our faith is to look like;

Jesus is expressing complete and utter dependence on the grace of the Father, in order to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

In fact lets read it because its relevant:

SO lets read the ACTUAL text for today:

13 One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him.

16 Someone came to Jesus with this question: “Teacher, what good deed ( Agathon/ agathos – what good thing – usually an act of kindness or other morally positive action) must I do to have eternal life?”

On the road to Jerusalem, with crowds following him, Jesus is approached by a wealthy young man, Luke wants us to know - he was a ruler.

14 But Jesus said, “Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.” 15 And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left. [1]

Unlike the children, the disciples don’t stop him from coming to Jesus, they didn’t stand in the way of him getting access at all.

Jesus is expressing complete and utter dependence on the grace of the Father, in order to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.

SO lets read the ACTUAL text for today:

He is a man of prosperity and a man with a purpose coming to Jesus.

SO lets read the ACTUAL text for today:

This guy wasn’t coming as an opponent like the Scribes or Pharisees.

16 Someone came to Jesus with this question: “Teacher, what good deed ( Agathon/ agathos – what good thing – usually an act of kindness or other morally positive action) what good deed must I do to have eternal life?”

He doesn’t appear to be hoping to trap Jesus with some controversial question or as a desperate beggar. This man was coming to Jesus; not to be healed, not to have a child blessed, but specifically for the condition of his own soul.

On the road to Jerusalem, with crowds following him, Jesus is approached by a wealthy young man, Luke wants us to know - he was a ruler.

Unlike the children, the disciples don’t stop him from coming to Jesus, they didn’t stand in the way of him getting access at all.

This guy valued Jesus, sought Jesus, wanted answers from Jesus. He recognized all the money, possessions, authority, and youthful vigor he has; there is still something incomplete.

He is a man of prosperity and a man with a purpose coming to Jesus.

Let’s understand the question here? If someone came to me and said Pastor – what must I do to gain eternal life – my culture, my worldview interprets the question as – “how do I gain assurance about what happens when I die?” “How do I know I’m going to heaven rather than hell, how do I not fear when I’m coming to the end of my life?” All good questions, valid questions – but we are reading here a conversation 2000 years ago, in another culture, another country and its helpful for you to know therefore that although the words translate – directly – they don’t translate well.

This guy wasn’t coming as an opponent like the Scribes or Pharisees.

When we lived in Spain – we came back to the UK visiting we hit a point where we were a little embarrassed at our girls lack of politeness. They had been brought up like most with our British please and thank you’s – and here were staying with parents and they were saying things like – “give me a drink” or “give me a sweet”. = Dime

This guy wasn’t coming as an opponent like the Scribes or Pharisees.

He doesn’t appear to be hoping to trap Jesus with some controversial question or as a desperate beggar. This man was coming to Jesus; not to be healed, not to have a child blessed, but specifically for the condition of his own soul.

Life eternal (or everlasting) Zoe aion-ios is literal but a 1st century Palestine Jew would be asking so much more than what happens when I die – they didn’t see such a separation of life ending and death starting – its more of a how does eternal life start here, in this moment and carry on into eternity.

He doesn’t appear to be hoping to trap Jesus with some controversial question or as a desperate beggar. This man was coming to Jesus; not to be healed, not to have a child blessed, but specifically for the condition of his own soul.

This guy valued Jesus, sought Jesus, a wanted answers from Jesus. He recognized all the money, possessions, authority, and youthful vigor he has there is still something incomplete.

How do I live in such a way, in this day, in these days that follow that means when my time comes – I’m not worried.

Yet his question is “what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” Already we are seeing his question probably didn’t fit with his worldview.

Let’s understand the question here? If someone came to me and said Pastor – what must I do to gain eternal life – my culture, my worldview interprets the question as – “how do I gain assurance about what happens when I die?” “How do I know I’m going to heaven rather than hell, how do I not fear when I’m coming to the end of my life?” All good questions, valid questions – but we are reading here a conversation 2000 years ago, in another culture, another country and its helpful for you to know therefore that although the words translate – directly – they don’t translate well.

This man’s desire for truth is genuine but he is functioning as legalist, he believes there is a standard he can achieve or an action or actions he can perform that can essentially earn God’s eternal favour.

When we lived in Spain – when we came back to the UK visiting we hit a point where we were a little embarrassed at our girls lack of politeness. They had been brought up like most with our British please and thank you’s – and here were staying with parents and they were saying things like – “give me a drink” or “give me a sweet”. = Dime

Jesus will answer his question but in doing so he is seeking to more fully enlighten this man to his true spiritual condition, his heart.

Life eternal (or everlasting) Zoe aion-ios is literal but a 1st century Palestine Jew would be asking so much more than what happens when I die – they didn’t see such a separation of life ending and death starting – its more of a how does eternal life start here, in this moment and carry on into eternity.

How do I live in such a way, in this day, in these days that follow that means when my time comes – I’m not worried.

17 “Why ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good.

How do I live in such a way, in this day, in these days that follow that means when my time comes – I’m not worried.

Yet his question is “what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” Already we are seeing his question probably didn’t fit with his worldview.

This is important. There is one standard by which we measure “Good” or not “good/bad”. Jesus is clear only God is truly “good.” His creation, without corruption of sin is declared “good”. But that is not how things are today; there is sin, rebellion, brokenness, imperfection in the world, and in each of us. “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” This is a simple yet profound truth: each of us has a deep individual spiritual need.

Yet his question is “what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” Already we are seeing his question probably didn’t fit with his worldview.

This man’s desire for truth is genuine but he is functioning as legalist, he believes there is standard he can achieve or an action or actions he can perform that can essentially earn God’s eternal favour.

But to answer your question—if you want to receive eternal life, keep the commandments.”

This man’s desire for truth is genuine but he is functioning as legalist, he believes there is standard he can achieve or an action or actions he can perform that can essentially earn God’s eternal favour.

18 “Which ones?” the man asked.

Jesus will answer his question but in doing so he is seeking to more fully enlighten this man to his true spiritual condition.

Now again – strange question. Why?

17 “Why ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good.

This is important. There is one standard by which we measure “Good” or not “good/bad”. Jesus is clear only God is truly “good.” His creation, without corruption of sin is declared “good”. But that is not how things are today; there is sin, rebellion, brokenness, imperfection in the world, and in each of us. “All have sinned and fallen short of the glory of God.” This is a simple yet profound truth each of us has a deep individual spiritual need.

I’ve talked about this before - In the Jewish culture of Jesus’ day boys would enter the Jewish education system at the age of 6 years old into something called Bet Sefer – or House of the book.

They were taught the Torah (first 5 books of the Bible) in the local Synagogue (church) beginning at the age of 6. They had classes 5 days a week just like we do today. By the time they were about 10 years old, they had memorized all of the Torah – the first five books of the Bible.

But to answer your question—if you want to receive eternal life, keep the commandments.”

18 “Which ones?” the man asked.

The best of those would go onto Bet Talmud – House of Learning from 10-14, then those that showed great knowledge and learning would go onto Bet Midrash – House of Study after that[2]…

Now again – strange question. Why?

Even if this guy had not made it to Bet Talmud, Bet Midrash or even Bet Midler – they would have been at Bet Sefer, and even if they’d been the worst of students and not memorised the first 5 books of the bible – this guys would have been taught and be able to recite the 10 commandments – like that!

Now again – strange question. Why?

I’ve talked about this before - In the Jewish culture of Jesus’ day boys would enter the Jewish education system at the age of 6 years old into something called Bet Sefer – or House of the book.

And he would know – its not a pick and mix – it’s not “if I can keep these – I don’t have to worry about those ”

They were taught the Torah (first 5 books of the Bible) in the local Synagogue (church) beginning at the age of 6. They had classes 5 days a week just like we do today. By the time they were about 10 years old, they had memorized all of the Torah – the first five books of the Bible.

Which ones?” the man asked.

The best of those would go onto Bet Talmud – House of Learning from 10-14, then those that showed great knowledge and learning would go onto Bet Midrash – House of Study after that[2]…

And Jesus replied: “ ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. 19 Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

The best of those would go onto Bet Talmud – House of Learning from 10-14, then those that showed great knowledge and learning would go onto Bet Midrash – House of Study after that[2]…

Even if this guy had not made it to Bet Talmud, Bet Midrash or even Bet Midler – they would have been at Bet Sefer, and even if they’d been the worst of students and not memorised the first 5 books of the bible – this guys would have been taught and be able to recite the 10 commandments – like that!

Interesting - You must not murder. (6th) You must not commit adultery. (7th) You must not steal. (8th) You must not testify falsely. (9th) 19 Honor your father and mother. (5th) love your neighbour as yourself – how would you want people to treat you – one way would be not want your stuff for themselves – (10th)

Even if this guy had not made it to Bet Talmud, Bet Midrash or even Bet Midler – they would have been at Bet Sefer, and even if they’d been the worst of students and not memorised the first 5 books of the bible – this guys would have been taught and be able to recite the 10 commandments – like that!

And he would know – its not a pick and mix – it’s not “if I can keep these – I don’t have to worry about those ”

There are many commandments Jesus doesn’t mention, he only uses the “horizontal” commandments (how we are to love each other), to also show our deficiency is both “horizontal” and “vertical” (how we love God). We can’t even love each other perfectly, how can we possibly love God perfectly.

And he would know – its not a pick and mix – it’s not “if I can keep these – I don’t have to worry about those ”

Which ones?” the man asked.

20 “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,” the young man replied. “What else must I do?”

Again this man’s spiritual blindness comes out. “I’ve done all that.” He apparently missed the entire Sermon on the Mount

And Jesus replied: “ ‘You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely. 19 Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.’”

Interesting - You must not murder. (6th) You must not commit adultery. (7th) You must not steal. (8th) You must not testify falsely. (9th) 19 Honor your father and mother. (5th) love your neighbour as yourself – how would you want people to treat you – one way would be not want your stuff for themselves – (10th)

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’[a] 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. Jesus takes the law and doesn’t lower the standards, he raises them.

Interesting - You must not murder. (6th) You must not commit adultery. (7th) You must not steal. (8th) You must not testify falsely. (9th) 19 Honor your father and mother. (5th) love your neighbour as yourself – how would you want people to treat you – one way would be not want your stuff for themselves – (10th)

There are many commandments Jesus doesn’t mention, he only uses the “horizontal” commandments (how we are to love each other), to also show our deficiency is both “horizontal” and “vertical” (how we love God). We can’t even love each other perfectly, how can we possibly love God perfectly.

What a bold statement “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,”.

Never, been angry, never lusted, never coveted, never lied, ever? Doubtful.

20 “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,” the young man replied. “What else must I do?”

Again this man’s spiritual blindness comes out. “I’ve done all that.” He apparently missed the entire Sermon on the Mount where Jesus takes the law and doesn’t lower the standards, he raises them.

Yet, he does have a sense he is still lacking. He is. he can’t possibly actively love his neighbors as himself because of his relationship with his own wealth and possessions.

Again this man’s spiritual blindness comes out. “I’ve done all that.” He apparently missed the entire Sermon on the Mount where Jesus takes the law and doesn’t lower the standards, he raises them.

Jesus was concerned with this man’s heart. Luke again wants us to know, Jesus was instructing him lovingly. He knows this man was not in a place of radical dependence but rather perceived independence.

27 “You have heard that it was said, ‘Do not commit adultery.’[a] 28 But I say to you that everyone who looks at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart.

“I’ve got all the wealth I need, I’m a good person, I have never done anything “majorly wrong”. Jesus gives him his prescription for life.

What a bold statement “I’ve obeyed all these commandments,”.

Never, been angry, never lusted, never coveted, never lied, ever? Doubtful. Yet, he does have a sense he is still lacking. He is. he can’t possibly actively love his neighbors as himself because of his relationship with his own wealth and possessions.

21 Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

Never, been angry, never lusted, never coveted, never lied, ever? Doubtful. Yet, he does have a sense he is still lacking. He is. he can’t possibly actively love his neighbors as himself because of his relationship with his own wealth and possessions.

Jesus was concerned with this man’s heart. Luke again wants us to know, Jesus was instructing him lovingly. He knows this man was not in a place of radical dependence but rather perceived independence.

Sell all you have, don’t just give it away, but use your great wealth to specifically bless others, and follow me.

“I’ve got all the wealth I need, I’m a good person, I have never done anything “majorly wrong”. Jesus gives him his prescription for life.

22 But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

“I’ve got all the wealth I need, I’m a good person, I have never done anything “majorly wrong”. Jesus gives him his prescription for life.

21 Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.”

It’s the same command Jesus gave to Peter and the fishermen, to Matthew, the Tax collector. And yet the response this time is dramatically different. Rather than getting up, leaving everything, and following Jesus. He leaves dejected. He was sorrowful, he had grief because he realized he would have to give up his Great Possessions, to follow this “Good” Teacher. In this man’s estimation the value of being with Jesus, having eternal life, even “treasure for eternity” wasn’t as attractive to him as the treasures he had before him.

Sell all you have, don’t just give it away, but use your great wealth to specifically bless others, and follow me.

He didn’t argue with the prescription he just didn’t like it.

Sell all you have, don’t just give it away, but use your great wealth to specifically bless others, and follow me.

Jesus gave him clear instructions that following Him will lead to radical life changes and full abandonment of all he holds dear. The man started as a seeker of Jesus, but when he found what the cost of following Jesus would be he left discouraged.

22 But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.

It’s the same command Jesus gave to Peter and the fishermen, to Matthew, the Tax collector. And yet the response this time is dramatically different. Rather than getting up, leaving everything, and following Jesus. He leaves dejected. He was sorrowful, he had grief because he realized he would have to give up his Great Possessions, to follow this “Good” Teacher. In this man’s estimation the value of being with Jesus, having eternal life, even “treasure for eternity” wasn’t as attractive to him as the treasures he had before him.

Maybe that’s you this morning, you started out as a radical seeker of Jesus, thought you would pay any price but stuff got in the way.

It’s the same command Jesus gave to Peter and the fishermen, to Matthew, the Tax collector. And yet the response this time is dramatically different. Rather than getting up, leaving everything, and following Jesus. He leaves dejected. He was sorrowful, he had grief because he realized he would have to give up his Great Possessions, to follow this “Good” Teacher. In this man’s estimation the value of being with Jesus, having eternal life, even “treasure for eternity” wasn’t as attractive to him as the treasures he had before him.

He didn’t argue with the prescription he just didn’t like it.

I used a quotation is one of my sermons last year – which really impacted me. Its by Mark Batterson – his book “All In’ – “Most people in most churches think they are following Jesus, but I’m not too sure. They may think they are following Jesus but the reality is this: They have invited Jesus to follow them”

I’ve not met any true follower of Jesus who has not been asked by him to leave something behind, to sacrifice something valuable to them. To give something up or walk away from something that at the time feels costly to them (even if later they realised the true poor price).

Jesus gave him clear instructions that following Him will lead to radical life changes and full abandonment of all he holds dear. The man started as a seeker of Jesus, but when he found what the cost of following Jesus would be he left discouraged.

Maybe that’s you this morning, you started out as a radical seeker of Jesus, thought you would pay any price but stuff got in the way.

It may be things, material value, addictions, attitudes, patterns of behaviour – all things that cost us.

Maybe that’s you this morning, you started out as a radical seeker of Jesus, thought you would pay any price but stuff got in the way.

Be prepared if, or when you ask Jesus “What do I need to give up, to walk away from, to follow you whole heartedly?”

I’ve not met any true follower of Jesus who has not been asked by him to leave something behind. To give something up or walk away from something that at the time feels costly to them (even if later they realised the true poor price).

Don’t ask me to give that up! That’s what it will be.

It may be things, material value, addictions, attitudes, patterns of behaviour – all things that cost us.

Be prepared if, or when you ask Jesus “What do I need to give up, to walk away from, to follow you whole heartedly?”

When Jesus says “Follow me” you will have to walk away from a lot. But you also will be walking towards something infinitely greater. Jesus prescription says this treatment will cure your desire to “Be perfect”, Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, (teleios) can maybe better be translated “made complete””made whole”.

All desire for wealth, or possessions, position, is really just a desire for wholeness.

Don’t ask me to give that up! That’s what it will be.

When Jesus says “Follow me” you will have to walk away from a lot. But you also will be walking towards something infinitely greater. Jesus prescription says this treatment will cure your desire to “Be perfect”, Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, (teleios) can maybe better be translated “made complete”.

Musicians, actors, businessmen, public figures – history is littered with people who have gotten to the pinnacle of their game, the highest peak of possessions, power, profile, money and they still find it lacking.

All desire for wealth, or possessions, position, is really just a desire for wholeness.

We all recognize something is missing in our lives, we all want sense of peace and contentment that comes from true wholeness because what we experience is usually fleeting and incomplete. Think about your “best day” maybe it was a wedding day, maybe the birth of a child, a graduation, new home, a great vacation. Regardless of how great it was, we still want more. Where the rich young ruler was mistaken, was in thinking that which was missing was something small and easy to acquire, when in fact it is something massively great and impossible to procure.

Musicians, actors, businessmen, public figures – history is littered with people who have gotten to the pinnacle of their game, the highest peak of possessions, power, money and they still find it lacking.

Entering the kingdom of heaven, having eternal life with God, being saved from the eternal consequences of wrongdoings and death cannot be an add-on, option, accessory, or an upgrade to an already comfortable life. It is not cherry to top off the life you have now.

Musicians, actors, businessmen, public figures – history is littered with people who have gotten to the pinnacle of their game, the highest peak of possessions, power, money and they still find it lacking.

We all recognize something is missing in our lives, we all want sense of peace and contentment that comes from true wholeness because what we experience is usually fleeting and incomplete. Think about your “best day” maybe it was a wedding day, maybe the birth of a child, a graduation, new home, a great vacation. Regardless of how great it was, we still want more. Where the rich young ruler was mistaken, was in thinking that was missing was something small and easy to acquire, when in fact it is something massively great and impossible to procure.

Our problem is not that we want too much out of life it is that we want too little from it. We are made for an eternal lavish joyful kingdom and we settle for a decaying slum run by the destructive dictatorship of ourselves and wonder why we’re not whole.

We all recognize something is missing in our lives, we all want sense of peace and contentment that comes from true wholeness because what we experience is usually fleeting and incomplete. Think about your “best day” maybe it was a wedding day, maybe the birth of a child, a graduation, new home, a great vacation. Regardless of how great it was, we still want more. Where the rich young ruler was mistaken, was in thinking that was missing was something small and easy to acquire, when in fact it is something massively great and impossible to procure.

Being part of the kingdom ends your search for wholeness in what can be had in the life you have now, and replaces it with greater promises, hopes, and desires that become a consuming new reality in your life. This new reality changes all our relationships, our relationships with ourselves, with others, with God, and yes with money and possessions. We are no longer consumers, we are stewards.

Entering the kingdom of heaven, having eternal life with God, being saved from the wrath of sin and death cannot be an add-on, option, accessory, or an upgrade to an already comfortable life. It is not cherry to top off the life you have now.

Our problem is not that we want too much out of life it is that we want to little from it. We are made for an eternal lavish joyful kingdom and we settle for a decaying slum run by the destructive dictatorship of ourselves and wonder why we’re not whole.

While there are spiritual realties at play here we would be in error to over spiritualize this episode and miss clear personal implications.

Being part of the kingdom ends your search for wholeness in what can be had in the life you have now, and replaces it with greater promises, hopes, and desires that become a consuming new reality in your life. This new reality changes all our relationships, our relationships with ourselves, with others, with God, and yes with money and possessions. We are no longer consumers, we are stewards.

Jesus doesn’t tell this man “Go and think differently about your money and possessions and if you think about it try to be a little more charitable, if you have extra.” But that’s what we do when we read this or hear this. Yes Jesus is concerned with heart attitudes, and yes it’s clear money and possessions have become an idol for this man. However, Jesus is consistently clear, our actions show our hearts. We should not be so quick let ourselves off the hook and say I’m not the rich guy, I am poor, I barely have enough, and I can’t give. We have to really wrestle with who we are in this story.

Being part of the kingdom ends your search for wholeness in what can be had in the life you have now, and replaces it with greater promises, hopes, and desires that become a consuming new reality in your life. This new reality changes all our relationships, our relationships with ourselves, with others, with God, and yes with money and possessions. We are no longer consumers, we are stewards.

While there are spiritual realties at play here we would be in error to over spiritualize this episode and miss clear personal implications. Jesus doesn’t tell this man “Go and think differently about your money and possessions and if you think about it try to be a little more charitable, if you have extra.” But that’s what we do when we read this or hear this. Yes Jesus is concerned with heart attitudes, and yes it’s clear money and possessions have become an idol for this man. However, Jesus is consistently clear, our actions show our hearts. We should not be so quick let ourselves off the hook and say I’m not the rich guy, I am poor, I barely have enough, and I can’t give. We have to really wrestle with who we are in this story.

23 Then Jesus said to his disciples, “I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven. 24 I’ll say it again—it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!”

Its easy to look at others and consider ourselves poor. We live in a culture where riches are paraded alongside celebrity and excess inside our homes on dozens of channels hourly each day. We want that, we want more!

Yet if you have clean, safe running water, you are rich. Today 800million of the worlds population are accessing unsafe water.

Its easy to look at others and consider ourselves poor. We live in a culture where richest and paraded alongside celebrity and excess inside our homes on dozens of channels hourly each day.

Yet if you have clean, safe running water, you are rich. Today 800million of the worlds population are accessing unsafe water.

Places in the world today where infant mortality is over 1 in 10, ours is a decimal place.

Even if you are on basic benefits in this country you are probably in the top 15% richest of the worlds population. Your income is likely 8 times the global average (www.givingwhatwecan.org provides a great global calculator)

Places in the world today where infant mortality is over 1 in 10, ours is a decimal place.

Even if you are on basic benefits in this country you are probably in the top 15% richest of the worlds population. Your income is likely 8 times the global average (www.givingwhatwecan.org provides a great global calculator)

The point of this is not for us to feel guilty about where we were born or now live; the privileges we enjoy. Or to causally dismiss real economic pressure, and actual situations of need in our lives or in our community. It is to rightly recognize our status and place in the world understand how our material wealth can easily lead to spiritual poverty.

Jesus goes on to talk about the difficulty material wealth brings in following Him. The difficulty will be great and can hinder entrance into the kingdom to make it seem insurmountably impossible. He uses the image of a camel going through the eye of the needle. It is simply hyperbole (hyperbolee) , there was no “small” gate you could sort of shove a camel through where it’s difficult but if you just work hard enough you can make it. It was a purposely ludicrous image.

Jesus goes on to talk about the difficulty material wealth brings in following Him. The difficulty will be great and can hinder entrance into the kingdom to make it seem insurmountably impossible. He uses the image of a camel going through the eye of the needle. It is simply hyperbole, there was no “small” gate you could sort of shove a camel through where it’s difficult but if you just work hard enough you can make it. It was a purposely ludicrous image. The disciples respond “who then can be saved?” If the wealthy and t materially blessed don’t make it in who does? The disciples don’t have an “unbiblical” view of wealth necessarily. On the contrary numerous times in the OT, God’s blessing is equated with material wealth, hard work, stewardship, wisdom are all praised, and the rewards are bountiful. So don’t mistake Jesus teaching here to imply that wealth or even the wealthy (even us) are so evil they are without hope

25 The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked.

Jesus goes on to talk about the difficulty material wealth brings in following Him. The difficulty will be great and can hinder entrance into the kingdom to make it seem insurmountably impossible. He uses the image of a camel going through the eye of the needle. It is simply hyperbole, there was no “small” gate you could sort of shove a camel through where it’s difficult but if you just work hard enough you can make it. It was a purposely ludicrous image. The disciples respond “who then can be saved?” If the wealthy and t materially blessed don’t make it in who does? The disciples don’t have an “unbiblical” view of wealth necessarily. On the contrary numerous times in the OT, God’s blessing is equated with material wealth, hard work, stewardship, wisdom are all praised, and the rewards are bountiful. So don’t mistake Jesus teaching here to imply that wealth or even the wealthy (even us) are so evil they are without hope

25 The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked.

If the wealthy and it materially blessed don’t make it in who does? The disciples don’t have an “unbiblical” view of wealth necessarily. On the contrary numerous times in the OT, God’s blessing is equated with material wealth, hard work, stewardship, wisdom are all praised, and the rewards are bountiful. So don’t mistake Jesus teaching here to imply that wealth or even the wealthy (even us) are so evil they are without hope

25 The disciples were astounded. “Then who in the world can be saved?” they asked.

26 Jesus looked at them intently and said, “Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.”

Hope cannot be found in ourselves or our riches. The gospel is here in a big way in verse 26. What is absolutely impossible on our own, no amount of charity will pay our debt of sin, is absolutely possible with God. God is good, merciful and gracious in richly providing salvation for those, rich and poor, who’s hope is found in Him alone. This hope changes how we see and use our material wealth. We are to have a gospel and kingdom centered view recognizing our wealth is not our own but is to be stewarded for God’s purposes. That means we actively use the money and possessions we have with Godly wisdom and an others focus. Specifically, our material wealth we receive is never intended to terminate on ourselves, it is to be enjoyed by us AND be a blessing to others. Disciples of Jesus are counter cultural in how use our finances, including intentional, sacrificial, cheerful giving our local church, generosity to others near and far. When we don’t manage our finances that way we are placing more faith and hope in the wealth we’ve received rather than the God who provides all things.

Hope cannot be found in ourselves or our riches. The gospel is here in a big way in verse 26. What is absolutely impossible on our own, no amount of charity will pay our debt of sin, is absolutely possible with God.

Hope cannot be found in ourselves or our riches. The gospel is here in a big way in verse 26. What is absolutely impossible on our own, no amount of charity will pay our debt of sin, is absolutely possible with God. God is good, merciful and gracious in richly providing salvation for those, rich and poor, who’s hope is found in Him alone. This hope changes how we see and use our material wealth. We are to have a gospel and kingdom centered view recognizing our wealth is not our own but is to be stewarded for God’s purposes. That means we actively use the money and possessions we have with Godly wisdom and an others focus. Specifically, our material wealth we receive is never intended to terminate on ourselves, it is to be enjoyed by us AND be a blessing to others. Disciples of Jesus are counter cultural in how use our finances, including intentional, sacrificial, cheerful giving our local church, generosity to others near and far. When we don’t manage our finances that way we are placing more faith and hope in the wealth we’ve received rather than the God who provides all things.

27 Then Peter said to him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?”

What does your relationship with money and possessions look like?

God is good, merciful and gracious in richly providing salvation for those, rich and poor, who’s hope is found in Him alone.

17 Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. 19 By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. [3]

28 Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then. [3]

This hope changes how we see and use our material wealth. We are to have a kingdom centered view recognizing our wealth is not our own but is to be stewarded for God’s purposes. That means we actively use the money and possessions we have with Godly wisdom and an others focus.

27 Then Peter said to him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?”

Specifically, our material wealth we receive is never intended to terminate on ourselves, it is to be enjoyed by us AND be a blessing to others.

Disciples of Jesus are counter cultural in how we are to use our finances, including intentional, sacrificial, cheerful giving, to the local church, generosity to others near and far. When we don’t manage our finances that way we are placing more faith and hope in the wealth we’ve received rather than the God who provides all things.

[1] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

28 Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life.

Ok, lets say you have radically orientated your life to the values of God’s kingdom, faithfully responding to Jesus call to follow Him. Like Peter you’re asking “Jesus but what about us? What about those of us who did leave our jobs, leave our families, and are making great material sacrifices to follow you?” Peter and us are not so different from the young ruler. He wants to know, if and when we actually live like Jesus with our finances is there a payoff?

What does your relationship with money and possessions look like?

If so when?

[2] https://stevecorn.com/2010/11/01/jewish-educational-system/

17 Teach those who are rich in this world not to be proud and not to trust in their money, which is so unreliable. Their trust should be in God, who richly gives us all we need for our enjoyment. 18 Tell them to use their money to do good. They should be rich in good works and generous to those in need, always being ready to share with others. 19 By doing this they will be storing up their treasure as a good foundation for the future so that they may experience true life. [3]

27 Then Peter said to him, “We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?”

Jesus answers YES and LATER! Jesus is clear what we do and how we live maters, but what is to come is of exponentially greater value. He points forward a day, to a place, we see down the road when all things are restored/renewed, ( and /66) where there is a new heavens and new earth. A time where what was given up for the sake of following Jesus, for the sake of seeing His name made famous, for using what we have to bring His kingdom down into where we are placed, is returned and rewarded “hundred fold”.

[3] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

28 Jesus replied, “I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life.

This is awesome! Jesus teaches his disciples about wealth and doesn’t stay don’t desire, and don’t be unsatisfied, he says desire things that are actually great and can ultimately satisfy.

Ok, lets say you have radically orientated your life to the values of God’s kingdom, faithfully responding to Jesus call to follow Him. Like Peter you’re asking “Jesus but what about us? What about those of us who did leave our jobs, leave our families, and are making great material sacrifices to follow you?” Peter and us are not so different from the young ruler. He wants to know, if and when we actually live like Jesus with our finances is there a payoff?

Jesus is not anti-incentive. He promises lavishness!!! This is not the prosperity gospel because they think too small and too short-term, their answer is the life of the rich young ruler.

If so when?

Jesus is promising an unending kingdom life.

Jesus answers YES and LATER! Jesus is clear what we do and how we live matters, but what is to come is of exponentially greater value. He points forward to a day, a place, we see down the road when all things are restored/renewed, ( and /66) where there is a new heavens and new earth. A time where what was given up for the sake of following Jesus, for the sake of seeing His name made famous, for using what we have to bring His kingdom down into where we are placed, is returned and rewarded “hundred fold”.

We need to be more than ok with our reward, the prize of knowing/following Jesus will not be fully realized in this life and this life might not even be comfortable.

This is awesome! Jesus teaches his disciples about wealth and doesn’t say don’t desire, and don’t be unsatisfied, he says desire things that are actually great and can ultimately satisfy.

The call of a disciple is not go and acquire but to leave and follow.

Jesus is not anti-incentive. He promises lavishness!!! This is not the prosperity gospel because they think too small and too short-term, their answer is the life of the rich young ruler.

That following does lead to a great reward.

Jesus is promising an unending kingdom life.

It leads to a perfect wealthy, incorruptible, joyful, enjoyable kingdom existence! Jesus doesn’t call us to a life of no gratification but one of delayed gratification. That means for today, or tomorrow, or longer life should look a lot more like self-denial then self-indulgence but that is not how it will always be. Jesus sacrifice purchased an eternal life with Him so our sacrifices in this life are not eternal but temporary.

17 For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! 18 So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. [4]

We need to be more than ok with our reward, the prize of knowing/following Jesus will not be fully realized in this life and this life might not even be comfortable.

The call of a disciple is not go and acquire but to leave and follow.

Why don’t I believe this? Because what is right in front of me and around me seems so real, great, significant. Yet there is more than what is seen, there is more than today, or the promises of a few more tomorrows, there is eternity. How is this possible? It is not possible with any amount of giving or sacrifice on our part, only a perfect complete sacrifice can make us whole providing our entrance in to the eternal kingdom of God. Jesus preformed the great deed!

That following does lead to a great reward.

30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then. [5]

It leads to a perfect wealthy, incorruptible, joyful, enjoyable kingdom existence! Jesus doesn’t call us to a life of no gratification but one of delayed gratification. That means for today, or tomorrow, or longer, life should look a lot more like self-denial then self-indulgence but that is not how it will always be.

Don’t leave today dejected like the rich young ruler who only saw the short-term cost and missed the eternal promises.

Jesus sacrifice purchased an eternal life with Him so our sacrifices in this life are not eternal but temporary.

And if you do not fully recognise who Jesus is – the chances are that is what will happen.

He isn’t a rich young ruler of a small province in a corner of one planet, He is God, the richest eternal King of the entire UINVERSE. HE is the ALPHA and the OMEGA, that is as first as it can possibly get, and yet he willingly gave it up for the rescue mission of the Gospel and calls us to that same mission. “Don’t settle for the WESTERN DREAM, when Jesus is calling us to the Great Commission.” In doing that what we receive from God (both money and the treasure of the Gospel) will be always flowing to others. 4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

17 For our present troubles are small and won’t last very long. Yet they produce for us a glory that vastly outweighs them and will last forever! 18 So we don’t look at the troubles we can see now; rather, we fix our gaze on things that cannot be seen. For the things we see now will soon be gone, but the things we cannot see will last forever. [4]

Why don’t I believe this? Because what is right in front of me and around me seems so real, great, significant. Yet there is more than what is seen, there is more than today, or the promises of a few more tomorrows, there is eternity. How is this possible? It is not possible with any amount of giving or sacrifice on our part, only a perfect complete sacrifice can make us whole, providing our entrance in to the eternal kingdom of God. Jesus preformed the great deed!

5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

30 But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then. [5]

6 Though he was God,

Don’t leave today dejected like the rich young ruler who only saw the short-term cost and missed the eternal promises.

he did not think of equality with God

as something to cling to.

And if you do not fully recognise who Jesus is – the chances are that is what will happen.

7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges;

He isn’t a rich young ruler of a small province in a corner of one planet, He is God, the richest eternal King of the entire UNIVERSE. HE is the ALPHA and the OMEGA, that is as first as it can possibly get, and yet he willingly gave it up for the rescue mission of the Gospel and calls us to that same mission.

Don’t settle for the WESTERN DREAM, when Jesus is calling us to the Great Commission.”

he took the humble position of a slave

4 Don’t look out only for your own interests, but take an interest in others, too.

and was born as a human being.

5 You must have the same attitude that Christ Jesus had.

When he appeared in human form,

8 he humbled himself in obedience to God

6 Though he was God,

and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

he did not think of equality with God

as something to cling to.

9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor

and gave him the name above all other names,

7 Instead, he gave up his divine privileges;

10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

he took the humble position of a slave

and was born as a human being.

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

When he appeared in human form,

11 and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,

to the glory of God the Father. [6]

8 he humbled himself in obedience to God

Hope in the humble Jesus who comes as Savoir leads to our humble worship of Jesus as King. Trust Jesus!

and died a criminal’s death on a cross.

Benediction:

9 Therefore, God elevated him to the place of highest honor

and gave him the name above all other names,

9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say,

10 that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow,

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard,

and no mind has imagined

in heaven and on earth and under the earth,

what God has prepared

11 and every tongue declare that Jesus Christ is Lord,

for those who love him.” [7]

to the glory of God the Father. [6]

Hope in the humble Jesus, who comes as Saviour, leads to our humble worship of Jesus as King.

Benediction:

[1] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

9 That is what the Scriptures mean when they say,

[2] https://stevecorn.com/2010/11/01/jewish-educational-system/

“No eye has seen, no ear has heard,

and no mind has imagined

[3] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

what God has prepared

for those who love him.” [7]

[4] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[1] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[5] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[2] https://stevecorn.com/2010/11/01/jewish-educational-system/

[6] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[3] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[7] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[4] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[5] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[6] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .

[7] Tyndale House Publishers, Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Carol Stream, IL: Tyndale House Publishers, 2013), .