HOW MUCH DOES IT COST

 

Thursday, April 18, 2024

 

HOW MUCH DOES IT COST

 

READ: Acts 8:16-20 and Matthew 19:16-20

 

Acts 8:20

20 But Peter said unto him, Thy money perish with thee, because thou hast thought that the gift of God may be purchased with money.

 

Matt 19:16

16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

 

          We have not advanced very far from the prevalent thinking of Jesus’ time. Both in Matthew and in Acts we see two examples of wrong thinking. Simon (the sorcerer) wanted to PURCHASE the ability to disburse the Holy Spirit and His effects. The rich young ruler wanted to know how he could assure himself eternal life and was willing to barter whatever necessary to obtain it.

 

          There is something incongruous about a “mega-church” and the life and times of Jesus. Now, there are larger churches that do not necessarily fit the term, but a huge church that promises more than can be delivered doesn’t fit Jesus’ template.

 

          Political “haninframus,” unjust justice, and positional entitlement were never part of Jesus’ plan. In fact, in John 16:33, He warned His followers that they would have tribulation and some trouble is an absolute side effect of believing in and receiving Christ. It is a package deal.

 

          The gift of God may not be purchased with money, or influence, or good deeds. While we, as beneficiaries, enjoy the things of God freely, the cost was incalculable to Jesus. These gifts are, therefore, to be received and enjoyed with thanksgiving and devotion only. Instead of riches and fame, Jesus indicated that the life of the Jesus follower would likely be one of need and obscurity.

 

Matt 6:19-21

19 Lay not up for yourselves treasures upon earth, where moth and rust doth corrupt, and where thieves break through and steal:

20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

21 For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.

 

Dear Lord, thank you for promising that for all my needs there would be enough. AMEN