Week 3: The Cost of DiscipleshipSample

Kingdoms come in all shapes and sizes. Some spread across thousands of miles of land encompassing millions of people while others are no bigger than your hometown. Yet, regardless of their differences, they share one commonality: authority.

A kingdom is composed of a group of individuals who submit themselves to the authority of another. They offer their allegiance in exchange for accountability, support, and guidance. Rather than centering their identity on their individuality, they become a part of something greater than themselves.

Following Jesus, becoming a citizen of his kingdom, is not a decision to be made on a whim. Accepting Jesus as your Lord means you serve him, not money, influence, or even yourself. You submit to his authority and follow his example by dying to your own selfish desires and ambitions.

In this passage, Jesus calls a rich man to give his wealth to the poor and come follow him. Despite his devotion to the Law, the young man discovers that his hunger for wealth outweighed his appetite for growing closer to the Lord.

As you read, reflect on Jesus' call to self-sacrifice and the promises he makes to those who decide to whole-heartedly follow him.

Read Luke 18:18-30

Reflection Questions

1. How is God speaking to me through these verses?
2. What does this set of verses teach me about God?
3. What does this show me about the good news of Jesus?
4. How can I apply what I read today?