What sacrifices might modern believers make to follow Jesus, as in Mark 10:28? “Peter began to say to Him, ‘Look, we have left everything and followed You.’ Jesus answered, ‘Truly I tell you, no one who has left home or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or fields for My sake and for the gospel will fail to receive a hundredfold in this present age—homes, brothers, sisters, mothers, children, and fields—along with persecutions, and in the age to come eternal life.’” Seeing the Pattern of Sacrifice • The disciples literally “left everything.” • Jesus affirmed both the cost and the multiplied reward. • The principle still stands: following Christ invites real, tangible surrender now, with eternal gain later (Philippians 3:7-8). Common Areas of Sacrifice for Today’s Believer • Family expectations – Choosing obedience to Christ over cultural or familial pressures (Luke 14:26). – Prioritizing church involvement, missions, or ministry even when relatives question the commitment. • Career and financial security – Turning down promotions that compromise integrity or hinder worship and family time (Proverbs 11:3). – Redirecting earnings to generous giving, missions, and compassion (2 Corinthians 9:7-8). • Comfort and convenience – Volunteering evenings or weekends rather than reserving all leisure for self. – Relocating to underserved areas for church planting or humanitarian outreach. • Social acceptance – Holding biblical convictions on sexuality, marriage, and sanctity of life despite ridicule (Romans 12:2). – Refusing entertainment or media that dishonors God, even when friends participate (Ephesians 5:11). • Personal ambitions – Laying aside dreams that compete with God’s calling (James 4:13-15). – Re-ordering life goals around the Great Commission (Matthew 28:19-20). Everyday, Ongoing Sacrifice Romans 12:1 calls believers to present their bodies “as a living sacrifice.” Practical expressions include: • Daily time in Scripture and prayer that overrides habit or haste. • Fasting to deepen dependence on God (Matthew 6:16-18). • Practicing forgiveness when wounded (Ephesians 4:32). • Speaking truth in love rather than remaining silent for ease (Ephesians 4:15). Why the Sacrifices Are Worth It • Jesus promises hundredfold returns “in this present age”—new spiritual family, deeper joy, and Kingdom purpose—“along with persecutions.” • Eternal life is the ultimate reward: unbroken fellowship with Christ (John 14:2-3). • Sacrifice proves genuine love: “If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself, take up his cross daily and follow Me” (Luke 9:23). Encouragement to Stand Firm • God equips what He commands (Philippians 2:13). • Present losses are momentary compared to “an eternal weight of glory far beyond comparison” (2 Corinthians 4:17). • The faithful testimony of past saints urges perseverance (Hebrews 12:1-2). Key Takeaway Modern believers may surrender relationships, resources, comfort, reputation, and personal plans, yet every sacrifice for Jesus’ sake is safeguarded by His promise of multiplied blessing now and forever. |
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