What does Luke 18:28 mean?
What is the meaning of Luke 18:28?

“Look,” said Peter

Peter’s interjection comes right after Jesus tells the rich ruler that earthly riches are an obstacle to entering God’s kingdom (Luke 18:24-25). With an almost child-like candor Peter wants Jesus to notice the contrast:

• The rich man clung to wealth, but the Twelve let go.

Matthew 19:27 records the same moment: “Then Peter responded, ‘See, we have left everything and followed You. What then will there be for us?’ ”.

• Peter’s word “Look” underscores a disciple’s longing for the Lord’s affirmation rather than human applause (2 Corinthians 5:9).


“we have left”

Leaving is decisive; it is not a gradual downsizing but a clean break.

Luke 5:11: “They pulled their boats up on the shore, left everything, and followed Him.”

Mark 1:20 shows James and John “leaving their father” in the boat.

Luke 14:33 ties the theme together: “Any one of you who does not give up everything he has cannot be My disciple.”

The verse reminds believers today that Christianity is not an add-on but a total reorientation.


“all we had”

“All” cancels loopholes. It speaks of:

• Possessions—boats, nets, homes (Acts 4:34-35).

• Plans—careers, ambitions (Philippians 3:7-8: “Whatever was gain to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ.”).

• Personal safety—enduring hunger, hardship, and even martyrdom (1 Corinthians 4:11-13).

The disciples’ sacrifice exposes the futility of half-hearted commitments.


“to follow You.”

The goal of renunciation is relational, not merely ethical. Jesus Himself is the treasure (John 12:26).

Luke 9:23: “If anyone would come after Me, he must deny himself and take up his cross daily and follow Me.”

John 10:27: “My sheep listen to My voice; I know them, and they follow Me.”

Revelation 14:4 paints the ultimate picture: redeemed saints “follow the Lamb wherever He goes.”

Following means daily obedience, future reward (Luke 18:29-30), and eternal fellowship.


summary

Luke 18:28 is Peter’s honest reminder that true discipleship costs everything, yet that “loss” is counted joy because it secures life with Christ. The verse calls believers to hold nothing back, confident that Jesus notices every surrender and promises a hundredfold return—now and forever.

How does Luke 18:27 relate to the concept of miracles in the Bible?
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