Matthew 19:27-28…Ready

Matthew 19:27-28…Ready

19:27 Peter answered him, “We have left everything to follow you! (Peter may have been saying it for Jesus’ benefit. “It’s okay, don’t feel sad Lord, we still left everything to follow you.”- Peter may also be saying in effect; “I guess it is possible with God, because that’s exactly what has happened in our case.) what then will there be for us? (Not a self-righteous attitude, like what am I going to get out of all this) 28 Jesus said to them, (Because Jesus doesn’t rebuke them as He did when they were arguing as to who was the greatest in the Kingdom. That it’s okey to ask what kind of reward can we look forward to. It’s a fair question)  “I tell you the truth, (A strong affirmation that is to be believed on and acted on. You’re missing the bigger picture Peter) at the renewal of all things, (The Regeneration is where the divine cures of creation is lifted at Christ’s return,-(Rom. 8:18-25) resulting in a new earth during the Millennium-(Rev. 21, 22)  when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. (For a Complete Expository see Book)

Extended Sermon Notes

“Teaches how there’s nothing in this world we wouldn’t trade or give up to be with Jesus in heaven.” → As believers grow in their faith, the things that once seemed important—material wealth, recognition, personal ambition—become less significant. This is not because such things are inherently evil, but because the light of God’s grace and the hope of eternal glory cast them in a new perspective. The transformation brought about by Salvation leads to a reordering of values. What once captivated the heart and mind loses its hold as the believer’s attention shifts toward the promises of God. The assurance of God’s presence and the anticipation of future glory make temporary gains and pleasures seem “strangely dim.” Rather than being consumed by the pursuit of earthly rewards, those who are Saved find deeper contentment and purpose in their relationship with God. This perspective is not simply a matter of religious duty, but the natural result of encountering the grace of God. The more believers fix their eyes on the eternal inheritance prepared for them, the more the fleeting nature of worldly things is revealed. In light of what is to come, the sacrifices made in following Christ become worthwhile, and the longing for earthly fulfillment is replaced by the joy of knowing and serving God.

“Even today, following Jesus often requires us to sacrifice many things; work, school, careers, relationships, personal ambitions, etc. Such decisions can be difficult, even questioning whether it is truly worth it. But the hope of reigning one day with Jesus makes it all worth it and will gladly do it again if we have to” → This future assurance gives meaning and purpose to our sacrifices, making the challenges we face not only bearable but also worthwhile. Knowing that our faithfulness will be rewarded in eternity encourages us to persevere, even if we were called to make these sacrifices again and again. Our willingness to surrender earthly pursuits for His sake is more than compensated by the promise of sharing in His reign, affirming that every sacrifice made in obedience to Him is truly worth it.

Additional Notes & Applications

Warns against seeing our relationship with God as though it was a business transaction, “I gave X, so I deserve X, Y, Z”

Teaches how following Christ requires present decisions and eternal perspectives.

Calls for living like pilgrims here on earth, knowing that our true citizenship is in heaven.

Note: There’s nothing sinful or wrong in wanting to know what the future holds for us. In fact God expects it that’s why He gave us the book of Revelation and many other promises in scripture.

Note: There can be a fake version of leaving all to follow Christ. There have been people who impoverished themselves for false religion. There have been people who have heard the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ and have impoverished themselves in a way that doesn’t reflect genuine faith. Don’t forget Judas is in this group of “We left everything to follow you”.

Note: Peter’s boast in all that they had left everything, is not as bad as it seems, because first God wants us to think about and look forward to and be motivated by our eternal rewards.-(Matt. 6:19) And second Jesus does not display displeasure nor does He rebuke Peter for it. But instead encourages Peter and the other disciple that their sacrifices would not be in vain.-(V. 29)

Note: God’s purpose in postponing rewards later in eternity may be for our own good. That if God gave material rewards for every good deed we did, we would get prideful of our achievements or act out of wrong motives.

Note: Some biblical commentaries emphasize that Peter’s inquiry regarding the disciples’ sacrifices was not motivated by selfishness or self-centeredness. Instead, Peter spoke on behalf of all the disciples, expressing a concern that was shared among them collectively.  Additionally, the response of Jesus to Peter’s question is noteworthy. Jesus did not express anger or displeasure, nor did He rebuke Peter. Rather, He recognized the legitimacy of the question and addressed it directly. This interaction highlights that it is appropriate to seek clarity about the spiritual consequences of one’s actions and decisions, especially when those decisions involve significant personal sacrifice for the sake of following Christ.

Note: Some question the legitimacy of Peter’s boast by pointing out; What did he really give up, some stinking fish and a old boat & net, and what he got in return was eternal life!.