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The Cost of Following Jesus
In Mark 10:17-31, a rich man asks Jesus what he must do to have eternal life. Jesus tells him to follow God’s commandments, and the man says he has kept them all. Then Jesus tells him to sell everything he has, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man leaves sad because he has great wealth. Jesus then explains that it is very hard for the rich to enter God’s kingdom, but with God, all things are possible. He assures His disciples that those who give up things for Him will receive even greater blessings, both in this life and in eternity. Jesus teaches that true treasure is not in wealth but in following Him wholeheartedly.
God’s Generous Grace
In Matthew 20:1-19, Jesus tells a story about a landowner who hires workers throughout the day and pays them all the same wage, whether they worked all day or just an hour. Some workers complain, but the landowner reminds them that he has been fair and generous. Jesus uses this story to show that God’s grace is a gift, not something we earn. No matter when someone comes to faith, God welcomes them with the same love and promise of eternal life. Then, Jesus reminds His disciples that He is going to Jerusalem, where He will suffer, die, and rise again, fulfilling God’s plan to save the world.
True Greatness and Faith
In Mark 10:35-52, two of Jesus’ disciples, James and John, ask Him for special positions of honor in His kingdom. Jesus tells them that true greatness comes from serving others, not seeking power. He explains that He came to serve and give His life for many. Later, as Jesus travels, a blind man named Bartimaeus calls out to Him for mercy. Despite people telling him to be quiet, Bartimaeus keeps calling, and Jesus heals him because of his faith. This passage shows that God values humility, service, and faith in Him above worldly status or recognition.
A Changed Heart and a Call to Be Faithful
In Luke 19:1-27, Jesus meets Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, who climbs a tree just to see Him. Jesus calls Zacchaeus down and chooses to stay at his house, even though many people see him as a sinner. Zacchaeus is so moved that he promises to give half of his wealth to the poor and repay anyone he has wronged. Jesus declares that salvation has come to his house. Then, Jesus tells a story about a king who gives his servants money to invest while he is away. Some use it wisely, but one does nothing with it out of fear. Jesus teaches that God wants us to use what He gives us for good, and He rewards those who are faithful.
Mary’s Act of Love
In John 12:1-11, Mary, the sister of Lazarus, shows her deep love for Jesus by pouring expensive perfume on His feet and wiping them with her hair. Some, like Judas, criticize her, saying the perfume should have been sold to help the poor. But Jesus defends her, saying she is preparing Him for His burial. Meanwhile, many people come to see Jesus and Lazarus, whom He had raised from the dead. The religious leaders, feeling threatened by Jesus’ growing influence, even plot to kill Lazarus. This moment reminds us that true devotion to Jesus comes from the heart, and not everyone will understand it.
Jesus Enters as King
In Matthew 21:1-17, Jesus rides into Jerusalem on a donkey, fulfilling a prophecy about the coming King. Crowds welcome Him with joy, waving palm branches and shouting, “Hosanna!” recognizing Him as the Messiah. But when Jesus enters the temple, He finds people using it for business instead of worship. He overturns their tables, declaring that God’s house should be a place of prayer. Later, children praise Him, but religious leaders become angry. This passage shows Jesus’ authority and reminds us that true worship comes from a sincere heart, not just outward actions.
Jesus Speaks About His Purpose
In John 12:20-36, some Greeks ask to see Jesus, and He responds by talking about His coming sacrifice. He compares His life to a seed that must die to produce new life, showing that His death will bring salvation to many. Jesus also reminds the people that those who follow Him must be willing to give up their own way of living. As He speaks, a voice from heaven confirms His mission. Jesus warns that His time on earth is short and urges people to walk in His light while they still can, so darkness does not overtake them.
Jesus Calls People to Believe
In John 12:37-50, despite the many miracles Jesus performed, some people still refused to believe in Him. This fulfilled what the prophets had said—many would reject the Messiah. However, Jesus makes it clear that He came to bring light, not judgment. He explains that those who believe in Him are also believing in God who sent Him. His words are not meant to condemn but to save, yet those who reject Him will one day face judgment. Jesus reminds everyone that He speaks only what God has commanded, and His message leads to eternal life.
Faith, Prayer, and Authority
In Mark 11:20-33, Jesus teaches His disciples about the power of faith. When they see a withered fig tree that He had cursed the day before, He tells them that if they have faith, even mountains can be moved. He also emphasizes the importance of prayer and forgiveness—when asking God for something, they must forgive others so that God will forgive them too. Later, when religious leaders question Jesus’ authority, He challenges them with a question about John the Baptist, exposing their unwillingness to accept the truth. This passage reminds us that true faith trusts in God, prays boldly, and walks in forgiveness.
Listening to God and Bearing Good Fruit
In Matthew 21:28-46, Jesus tells two parables to challenge the religious leaders. The first is about two sons—one refuses to obey his father but later changes his mind, while the other agrees to obey but never follows through. Jesus explains that sinners who repent are like the first son, while the religious leaders, who claim to follow God but reject His message, are like the second. The second parable is about tenants who refuse to give the vineyard’s fruit to its owner and even kill his son. Jesus warns that those who reject God’s Son will lose their place in His kingdom. These stories remind us that true faith is shown through actions, not just words, and that we must listen to God with open hearts.