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One Thing You Still Lack — 11/19/2024 10:00 AM
Today's speaker is Erik Spohr, Lead Pastor at Centerville Christian Fellowship in Centerville, Ohio. Pastor Spohr looks at the story of the rich young ruler in Luke 18:18-30, and shares the tragic misunderstanding he had, and the unexpected warning and eternal promise that Jesus gave.
Notes
True Surrender: Reflections on Luke 18:18-30
In Luke 18:18-30, we encounter a wealthy ruler who asks one of the most important questions: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” This man appears to have it all—wealth, status, and a sincere desire for eternal life. Yet, as Jesus engages with him, it becomes clear that his heart is divided. His story offers three powerful lessons about surrender, salvation, and the worth of following Christ.
1. A Tragic Misunderstanding (Luke 18:18-23)
The rich ruler’s question is significant, but his understanding is flawed. When he calls Jesus “good teacher,” Jesus challenges him, saying, “No one is good—except God alone.” Was this flattery, or was he truly recognizing Jesus as God? Regardless, Jesus quickly shifts the focus to the man’s heart. Jesus references the commandments, not to add another work to salvation but to reveal the man’s idolatry. Though the ruler claims to have kept the commandments, his wealth has become his god. When Jesus calls him to sell his possessions and follow Him, the man walks away sad, unable to surrender what he treasures most. The tragedy is not his wealth but his failure to see the infinite worth of Christ.
2. An Unexpected Warning (Luke 18:24-27)
Jesus warns, “How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God!” This astonishes His disciples. Wealth can be dangerous because it lures us into self-sufficiency, making us believe we don’t need God. But Jesus reassures them with hope-filled words: “What is impossible with man is possible with God.” This truth extends beyond money. Anything we depend on for identity, security, or meaning can become a barrier to surrender. Salvation is only possible because of God’s grace through repentance and faith.
3. An Eternal Promise (Luke 18:28-30)
When Peter reminds Jesus that they’ve left everything to follow Him, Jesus promises that anyone who sacrifices for the kingdom will be rewarded both now and in eternity. Kingdom living means prioritizing Christ, even when it costs relationships, comfort, or possessions.
Action Steps
- Reflect: What are the “riches” in your life that hinder full surrender?
- Surrender: Trust God with everything, knowing He provides true joy and life.
- Prioritize: Commit to kingdom living, valuing Jesus above all else.
True surrender is costly but infinitely worth it because it leads to life with Christ—a treasure beyond comparison.