Dr. McKellar’s Lesson for March 19, 2017

“A Case of Kingdom Economics” Matthew 19:16-30 Bible Study 03/19/17
This morning we will turn our attention to the dialogue between Jesus and a rich young ruler. This dialogue and the subsequent discussion of Jesus with His disciples show us the stunning contrast between the world’s economy and the Kingdom’s economy.

I. Background/Context

-Judea beyond the Jordan (19:1)
-moving closer to Jerusalem and the cross
-tested by Pharisees (19:3-9)
-children brought to Him (19:13-15)

II. Dialogue with a Rich Young Ruler (16-22)

-rich, young, ruler (Luke 18:18)
-question about salvation: eternal life
-corrective question of Jesus: focus on divine goodness
-clarifying answer of Jesus: keep commandments
-question about “lack”
-challenging answer of Jesus: wholeness-sell, give, follow
-a “grieving” departure

III. Directive to the Disciples (23-30)

-difficulty for the rich
-impossibility illustrated: getting a camel through a needle’s eye
-astonishment of disciples
-a gaze and a “truth bomb”
-Peter pipes up
-promise of uncountable blessings
-19:30 and 20:16: surprise, surprise, surprise!

IV. So what?

-Since the Lord initiates and empowers Kingdom entrance, commit to His gospel exclusively and communicate it expectantly.
-Make sure your concept of “good” is God-informed.
-Our ultimate problem is not a money problem but a heart problem.
-Grasp the contrast between the world’s perspective and God’s perspective.
-Pray for an “impossible” person this week.
-Remember that the Lord rewards faithfulness with uncountable blessings.
-“I’d Rather Have Jesus…” (Rhea Miller, 1922)