How should Luke 20:34 influence our relationships and commitments on earth? Setting the Scene • Luke 20:34 frames Jesus’ answer to the Sadducees’ question about the resurrection: “Jesus answered, ‘The sons of this age marry and are given in marriage.’” • He contrasts “this age” (our present earthly life) with “that age” (resurrection life, v. 35). • Marriage and other earthly commitments are God-given, but they belong to the present order that will give way to eternity. The Heart of Luke 20:34 • Jesus affirms marriage as normal and good for “the sons of this age.” • Yet He implies marriage is temporary, confined to earthly life. In the resurrection, relationships will be transformed beyond current social structures. • Knowing this helps us keep earthly ties in biblical perspective—treasured, but not ultimate. Implications for Marriage and Family • Treat marriage as a sacred stewardship for this life only. – Genesis 2:24 shows its divine origin. – Ephesians 5:25 calls husbands to Christlike love. • Because marriage is temporary, it cannot replace or rival our eternal bond with Christ. • The family is a training ground for eternity: learning sacrificial love, forgiveness, and servant leadership that reflect heaven’s values. Cultivating Eternal Priorities • Colossians 3:1-2: “Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” • 1 Corinthians 7:29-31 reminds believers that “the time is short… this world in its present form is passing away.” • Marriage, career, and possessions are important, yet they should be held with an open hand, subordinated to kingdom purposes. Living Faithfully in Present Commitments • Seek first God’s kingdom (Matthew 6:33); let every relationship serve that aim. • Show heaven’s love now: – Romans 12:10: “Be devoted to one another in brotherly love.” – 1 Peter 4:8: “Above all, love one another deeply.” • Practice gospel-shaped priorities: – Honor marriage vows while refusing to idolize the institution. – Nurture children, aiming more for their eternal destiny than mere earthly success. – Engage friendships and church family as anticipations of the fellowship to come. Practical Takeaways • Hold earthly relationships gratefully, but loosely—only Christ is forever. • Use your home as a mini-mission field; invest in others’ eternal good. • Let marital love mirror Christ’s love for the church, pointing beyond itself. • Keep citizenship in heaven (Philippians 3:20) at the forefront; let that hope steady your choices, loyalties, and sacrifices here. |
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