How does Luke 9:59 challenge our priorities in following Jesus today? The Encounter in One Sentence “Then He said to another, ‘Follow Me.’ But he replied, ‘Lord, first let me go and bury my father.’” (Luke 9:59) What Seemed Reasonable, Yet Revealed a Deeper Issue • In first-century Israel, caring for a parent’s burial was a sacred, culturally non-negotiable duty. • The man calls Jesus “Lord,” yet places a family obligation ahead of immediate obedience. • Jesus exposes the tension every disciple faces: Who or what truly claims first place? How Jesus’ Reply (v. 60) Clarifies the Call “Let the dead bury their own dead; you, however, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.” (Luke 9:60) • “Let the dead”—the spiritually dead—deal with routine matters. • “Go and proclaim”—kingdom proclamation outranks even urgent family expectations. • Jesus refuses delayed obedience because delayed obedience equals disobedience. Core Challenges to Our Modern Priorities • Family or faith first? Jesus insists He must be first (Matthew 10:37). • Comfort vs. calling: cultural respectability collides with radical discipleship (Luke 14:26-27). • Security vs. surrender: earthly responsibilities feel safer than kingdom adventure (Philippians 3:7-8). • Tomorrow vs. today: procrastination masks unbelief (Hebrews 3:15). Practical Ways to Put Jesus First Today • Guard the first block of every day for Word and prayer before tending to tasks. • Let kingdom commitments shape the family calendar, not vice versa. • Say “yes” promptly when the Spirit nudges—serve, give, speak, go. • Hold earthly ties loosely, viewing them as stewardship, not ownership. • Evaluate major decisions (career, finances, relationships) through the lens: “Will this advance or hinder gospel proclamation?” Scriptures That Reinforce the Priority Principle • Matthew 6:33 – “But seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be added unto you.” • 2 Timothy 2:4 – “A soldier refrains from entangling himself in civilian affairs, in order to please the One who enlisted him.” • Colossians 3:1-2 – “Set your hearts on the things above... Set your minds on things above, not on earthly things.” • Luke 12:31-32 – “But seek His kingdom, and these things will be added unto you. Do not be afraid, little flock...” Bottom Line Luke 9:59 pushes every disciple to settle the question of ultimate allegiance. Following Jesus is not one commitment among many; it is the commitment that puts every other priority in its proper place. |
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