A wealthy official walks straight up to Jesus without pushing through, the crowd parts for him respectfully, because he has everything parents wish for their children: status, money, education, and piety. He asks the most important question a person can ask, and Jesus’ answer turns his world upside down (Luke 18). The sermon presses on what our real treasure is, and shows that meeting Jesus can thoroughly unsettle a well-ordered life. Listen if you want to find out what you are holding on to more tightly than him.
Discussion questions
For your small group or for personal reflection after the sermon.
- The rich ruler in Luke 18:18-34 had everything parents wished for their children. Why did his question about eternal life and Jesus' answer surprise the listeners so much?
- Jesus quotes the commandments but skips the ones about our relationship with God, then says: sell everything and follow me. What did these words reveal in the ruler's heart?
- Before the ruler arrives, Jesus says the Kingdom of God belongs to children. What does this contrast say about who can receive the Kingdom and how?
- The sermon says many people simply want to add Jesus to a good, well ordered life. According to this passage, why is that not enough?
- In the story of the missionaries in China who could take only 90 kilograms, precious things suddenly became unimportant. What in your life might be a treasure that keeps you from following Jesus?
- What could making Jesus your greatest treasure look like for you this week, knowing He may shake up your plans?
