Preaching on Interest in Material Things Matthew 19:27

INTRODUCTION:

Sadly, many individuals live their lives primarily driven by an intense interest in material possessions and worldly comforts. This preoccupation often becomes a significant barrier, preventing them from heeding and obeying the transformative message of the gospel.

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I. THE DANGER OF INTEREST IN MATERIAL THINGS

• A. Peter showed an initial interest in material reward – Matthew 19:27.

◦ He asked Jesus, "See, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?" Peter's question, while understandable in a human context, seemed to focus more on the tangible reward for their sacrifice than on the intrinsic joy and privilege of serving Christ. How many today echo this sentiment: "What tangible benefit will following Jesus bring me?"

▪ Discussion: Why is it dangerous to primarily focus on the material rewards of following Christ? How can we cultivate a heart that values service and spiritual growth above earthly gain?

• B. The mother of Zebedee’s sons sought worldly power and prestige for her children – Matthew 20:20–21.

◦ She requested prominent positions of honor for James and John in Jesus' future kingdom, revealing a desire for earthly status and influence for her sons. But Jesus gently taught that true greatness in His kingdom is found in humble service (Matthew 20:26-27).

▪ Discussion: How does the pursuit of worldly power and prestige contradict the values of Jesus' kingdom? What does it mean to be "great" in God's eyes?

• C. Many followed Jesus primarily for the provision of physical food, not for the spiritual truth He offered – John 6:26.

◦ Jesus rebuked the crowds, saying, "Truly, truly, I say to you, you are seeking me, not because you saw signs, but because you ate your fill of the loaves." 1 These individuals sought Christ only for what they could materially receive. Tragically, even today, there are those who approach faith seeking prosperity and material blessings, rather than genuine salvation and a relationship with God.

▪ Discussion: What are some ways people today might seek Jesus primarily for material gain rather than spiritual transformation? How can we discern our own motivations for following Christ?

• D. Felix, the Roman governor, expected a financial bribe from the Apostle Paul – Acts 24:26.

◦ Luke records that Felix hoped that money would be given him by Paul. His interest in summoning Paul was not rooted in spiritual conviction or a desire for truth, but in the potential for monetary gain. Sadly, many today approach the church or religious figures with the primary intention of personal or financial benefit.

▪ Discussion: How can the pursuit of personal gain corrupt one's engagement with the church and spiritual matters? What should be our primary motivation for interacting with the Christian community?

• E. Felix's example serves as a stark confrontation for us.

◦ Paul, despite being imprisoned, did not offer a bribe to Felix, even though it could have secured his release. This highlights Paul's commitment to integrity and his refusal to compromise spiritual principles for worldly advantage. Contrast this with the prevalent practice in many societies, including potentially in some contexts , where people resort to bribery for licenses, to avoid fines, or even for illegal activities like crossing borders.

▪ Discussion: What does Paul's refusal to bribe Felix teach us about maintaining our integrity as Christians in a potentially corrupt world? How can we resist the temptation to seek personal gain through dishonest means?

• F. The rich young ruler ultimately preferred his material wealth over following Christ's call – Matthew 19:21–22.

◦ He was unwilling to relinquish his significant riches, demonstrating that his attachment to material possessions was stronger than his desire to follow Jesus. Similarly, today, many may not fully commit to worship or discipleship because they prioritize working long hours to accumulate wealth, spending time and resources on purchasing material goods, or constantly pursuing worldly acquisitions.

▪ Discussion: What are some ways that the pursuit of material wealth can hinder our worship and commitment to Christ? How can we maintain a healthy perspective on material possessions?

• G. Gehazi, Elisha's servant, lied out of greed for material gain – 2 Kings 5:20–27.

◦ His covetous desire for the gifts Naaman offered led him to deceit and ultimately to severe consequences. Today, the allure of financial gain can tempt many to falsify documents, lie in job interviews, or engage in other dishonest practices.

▪ Discussion: How can the love of money lead to moral compromise and sin? What are some practical ways to guard our hearts against greed?

• H. The deceitfulness of wealth and worldly worries can choke the Word of God in our hearts – Matthew 13:22.

◦ The parable of the sower illustrates how the anxieties of this world and the allure of riches can distract and ultimately lead many away from the path of the Lord, preventing the seed of the Word from bearing lasting fruit.

▪ Discussion: What are some of the "worries of this world" and "deceitfulness of wealth" that can hinder our spiritual growth and commitment? How can we cultivate a heart that allows the Word to flourish?

II. WE MUST FOCUS ON SPIRITUAL THINGS

• A. The realm of the spiritual is eternal and enduring, while the material world is temporary and will eventually pass away.

◦ Let us therefore not set our hearts and affections on things that are destined to perish, but on the eternal realities of God's kingdom and our relationship with Him.

• B. Let us prioritize seeking first the Kingdom of God and His righteousness – Matthew 6:33.

◦ This means placing our relationship with God and His will above our concerns for food, clothing, or drink. Jesus assures us that when we prioritize His kingdom, these necessary material things will be added to us.

▪ Discussion: What does it practically mean to "seek first the Kingdom of God" in our daily ? How does this principle impact our priorities and decision-making?

• C. Let us labor for the food that endures to eternal life – John 6:27.

◦ Jesus urged His followers to invest their effort not in perishable food but in the spiritual nourishment that leads to eternal life, which He alone can provide. Let us therefore invest our time, energy, and resources in things that will bear eternal fruit.

▪ Discussion: What are some ways we can "labor for the food that endures to eternal life"? How can we invest in spiritual growth and the advancement of God's kingdom?

• D. Let us set our sights and affections on heavenly things – Colossians 3:2.

◦ Our primary focus and allegiance should be directed towards the eternal realities of heaven, where Christ is seated at the right hand of God. Our ultimate priority must be to please God, not to accumulate earthly possessions or seek worldly approval.

▪ Discussion: How can we practically "set our minds on things that are above"? What disciplines can help us cultivate a heavenly perspective?

• E. Let us earnestly desire spiritual gifts and growth.

◦ ➤ The pursuit of the spiritual leads us to eternal life in heaven. In contrast, the material world and all its allurements will ultimately disappear and hold no lasting value (2 Peter 3:10).

▪ Discussion: What are some spiritual gifts we should earnestly desire? How can we actively pursue spiritual growth in our lives?

Preaching on Interest in Material Things Matthew 19:27

CONCLUSION:

We have clearly seen through various examples in Scripture that an excessive concern and preoccupation with material things has often led many away from God's path, hindering their obedience to the gospel and their pursuit of eternal life. Let us learn from these warnings and cultivate a heart that prioritizes the eternal over the temporal, seeking first the Kingdom of God and investing in the spiritual realities that will last forever.

Preaching on Interest in Material Things Matthew 19:27