Are Riches Your Priority?

N.T.#620 "Are Riches Your Priority?"

August 26, 2025 

Luke 18-Part 5 

LET IT GLOW 

The rich young ruler allowed his riches to separate himself from Jesus. Had he followed Jesus, he would have come to the cross for redemption. (McGee)

Riches were the guy's security and identity. Had he given them up, he would have found more security in Jesus. If utter devotion to God is the standard of salvation, then no one qualifies. We fail drastically. We can't obtain heaven through our merits, good deeds, works, words, etc. So it would be impossible for salvation on our own. We could never be good enough. 

It is hard for the rich to enter the kingdom of God. (verse 24) Jesus told us that. In fact, squeezing a camel through an eye of a needle would be easier. (verse 25) The rich think they are self-sufficient and their wealth makes them acceptable before God. (Tony Evans)

Boy did this shock the disciples. Where did it leave them?

Who then can be saved? (verse 26)

We are all sinners in need of a Savior. We deserve judgment for our sins. Agree?

LET IT GROW

And He said, The things which are impossible with men are possible with God. (verse 27)

Jesus came in the form of a man so He could pay the penalty of our sin, which we could not do. It required a perfect and blood sacrifice. He met God's requirement.

Folks, we can't even be perfect in our thoughts, words, and deed for one hour, I dare say. We can't keep all the Ten Commandments for a day. That puts us in a needy condition. We need God's grace and faith to believe in Jesus. You know, He can even work in the hearts and minds of the wealthy to humble them so they look to Him and not their riches for eternal life.

God can do the impossible. Pray for the wealthy to see their spiritually needy condition. (Jesus doesn't ask everyone to sell all and follow Him. However, it is a matter of attitude.)

Who or what is in first place in your life? 

LET IT GO

Anything you need to let go so you can be a faithful follower of Jesus?

Search our hearts, Lord. 

Change our hearts so we can be like you.