What does Matthew 19:27 teach about rewards for following Jesus? Setting the Scene Matthew 19 records Jesus’ conversation with the rich young ruler. After the young man walks away, shocked at the cost of discipleship, Peter voices what every committed follower wonders about: if we surrender everything, what awaits us? The Heart Behind Peter’s Question • Peter speaks for all who have “left everything” (his boat, nets, livelihood, even family proximity) to follow Christ. • His inquiry is honest, not greedy; it flows from faith that Jesus rewards obedience (cf. Hebrews 11:6). • By asking “What then will there be for us?” Peter shows that it is biblical to anticipate God-promised rewards. What Verse 27 Reveals About Rewards • Expectation is permissible. Peter assumes God does not ignore sacrifice. • Rewards are linked to relationship. The phrase “to follow You” centers any future blessing squarely on Christ. • The verse sets up Jesus’ affirmation (vv. 28-29) that no true surrender goes unrewarded. Connecting Jesus’ Answer in Verses 28-29 Though outside the question’s verse, Jesus’ response clarifies Peter’s hope: • Twelve thrones await the apostles in the coming kingdom (v. 28). • “Everyone who has left houses or brothers…will receive a hundredfold and inherit eternal life” (v. 29). • Rewards are both future (millennial reign, eternal life) and “hundredfold” present—spiritual family, purpose, joy (Mark 10:30). Key Principles on Rewards for Believers • God notes every sacrifice (Malachi 3:16). • Rewards are gracious, not wages; they spring from God’s generosity (Matthew 20:1-16). • They vary in scope—crowns (2 Timothy 4:8), commendation (1 Corinthians 4:5), positions of service (Luke 19:17). Other Scriptures That Reinforce the Promise • Luke 18:28-30; Mark 10:28-31 – parallel assurances. • 1 Corinthians 3:8-14 – labor tested, reward preserved. • Galatians 6:9 – “we will reap a harvest if we do not give up.” • Revelation 22:12 – Jesus brings recompense “to repay each one for what he has done.” Personal Takeaways Today • Following Jesus may cost earthly security, yet He guarantees immeasurable gain. • Present obedience sows eternal dividends; nothing done for Christ is wasted. • Anticipating reward fuels perseverance without diminishing pure devotion—because the reward is ultimately more of Him. |
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