The Light of Christ Journey

Encouraging people on their journey with Christ

The Cost of Following Jesus

Paula K. Graves

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October 26, 2025

The cost of following Jesus becomes apparent as Jesus travels towards Jerusalem. Jesus knew the hearts of those surrounding Him. Some wanted a new political kingdom to overthrow the Romans, while others sought casual discipleship, and a few truly sought Jesus as their Messiah.

Luke 14: 25 A large crowd was following Jesus. He turned around and said to them, 26 “If you want to be my disciple, you must, by comparison, hate everyone else—your father and mother, wife and children, brothers and sisters—yes, even your own life. Otherwise, you cannot be my disciple. [1]

Love or Hate?

Jesus is known for His command to love. John 13: 34 So now I am giving you a new commandment: Love each other. Just as I have loved you, you should love each other. 35 Your love for one another will prove to the world that you are my disciples.”[2] Yet, Jesus said in the above verses that to be a disciple, one had to hate one’s family and one’s own life. So, which is it, love or hate? Is there a Biblical discrepancy here?

In the Luke passage, Jesus used extreme exaggeration to make a point. Our love for Him must be so great that, in comparison, our love for family and ourselves would seem like hate. There would be Jewish opposition to following Jesus as Messiah. If people decided to follow Jesus, they had to be prepared for alienation from their families. Jesus was making it clear; a disciple’s allegiance had to be fully for Him.

Carrying a Cross

Following Jesus had to be a disciple’s first priority. Jesus was asking His listeners to either be willing to go deeper with Him or turn back. He next used an image that would have been familiar to His audience, a cross. Roman officials forced criminals to carry their cross to their execution.

Luke 14: 27 And if you do not carry your own cross and follow me, you cannot be my disciple. [3] “What does it mean to “carry the cross”? It means daily identification with Christ in shame, suffering, and surrender to God’s will. It means death to self, to our own plans and ambitions, and a willingness to serve Him as He directs.”[4]

Jesus was not asking His disciples to do something He would not do. When Jesus said this, He was on His way to Jerusalem to die on the cross. Jesus willingly gave up His will to do the Father’s will. He served God unto death out of love for us.

Romans 5: 8 But God showed his great love for us by sending Christ to die for us while we were still sinners. 9 And since we have been made right in God’s sight by the blood of Christ, he will certainly save us from God’s condemnation.[5] We still need to count the cost of following Jesus. But when we realize what Jesus did for us, how can we not but follow Him? To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/the-cost-of-discipleship

[1-3,5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Lk 14:25–26). Tyndale House Publishers.

[2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Jn 13:34–35). Tyndale House Publishers.

Focus on Heavenly Hope

Paula K. Graves

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October 25, 2025

The disciples rejoiced because evil spirits obeyed them when they used Jesus’ name, but Jesus told them to focus on heavenly hope. Luke 10: 20 But don’t rejoice because evil spirits obey you; rejoice because your names are registered in heaven.” [1]

Evidently, some of the healings the disciples did were exorcisms. They had delegated authority from Jesus to overcome spiritual enemies. The disciples rejoiced in their victories over the demonic forces. More than likely, these towns saw the disciples as miracle workers and praised their accomplishments. Yet, these miracles were to point to God’s Kingdom.

Remember God Has the Power and the Authority

Jesus had given the disciples delegated authority and power. They could not perform miracles on their own, but only in Jesus’ name. The miracles they were able to perform had been a heady experience. Jesus wanted to keep them on the right path. Their experiences of God’s power in ministry were not meant to lead to pride. Instead, they were to serve God out of love for Jesus and a desire to see more people join in following Jesus.

Thus, to prevent them from becoming proud of what they had done, Jesus had them focus on heavenly hope. Their joy was to come from their relationship with Jesus, not from the power of exorcism. They are not to assume they can sit back and enjoy these new powers. No, they are to realize that they are part of God’s purpose that is going forward.

Our Relationship With Jesus Guides Our Actions

Jesus gives us a similar assignment as He did the seventy-two. Mark 16: 15 And then he told them, “Go into all the world and preach the Good News to everyone. 16 Anyone who believes and is baptized will be saved. But anyone who refuses to believe will be condemned. 17 These miraculous signs will accompany those who believe: They will cast out demons in my name, and they will speak in new languages. 18 They will be able to handle snakes with safety, and if they drink anything poisonous, it won’t hurt them. They will be able to place their hands on the sick, and they will be healed.”[2]

We, as believers, also have authority as the seventy-two did. However, this is a delegated authority, not ours, but God’s. Therefore, we must heed Jesus’ instructions to operate in this authority effectively. To do this, we must hear the instructions, and the Holy Spirit enables us to do so. John 16: 14 He (the Holy Spirit) will bring me glory by telling you whatever he receives from me (Jesus).[3]

Therefore, just as the seventy-two, we must focus on our heavenly hope that stems from our relationship with Jesus. God enables miraculous victories over the demonic snakes and scorpions. We are not to be prideful over the victories over evil that God allows. However, we must acknowledge the source of this power and give glory to God.

To learn more, listen here:  

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

The Authority of the Believer

Tom Graves

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October 24, 2025

The authority of every believer is an incredible empowerment that the Lord grants to His followers. After the joyful return of the seventy-two disciples, who celebrated their victory over demons in Jesus’ name, Jesus offers a profound insight. Luke 10:18“Yes,” he told them, “I saw Satan fall from heaven like lightning! [1]This isn’t just a history of Satan’s expulsion. It’s a strong statement of Jesus’ victory and its importance for followers.

This also serves as a warning about pride. If Satan could fall, they too could fall into a similar trap.Their authority over demons was not a coincidence, but a sign of a cosmic truth: satan’s power is shattered, and his kingdom is fading.

This statement reassures the disciples—and us—that the spiritual battles we face are against a defeated enemy. Christ has already secured the ultimate victory. This perspective underscores the fundamental truth that all authority belongs to Jesus. Any power we exercise in His name originates from His supreme authority over darkness.

Power Over the Enemy

Jesus clearly grants authority to His disciples. Luke 10:19 “Look, I have given you authority over all the power of the enemy, and you can walk among snakes and scorpions and crush them.” Nothing will injure you.[2] The image of “treading on serpents and scorpions” symbolizes overcoming evil and dangerous forces. It’s not just about literal reptiles, but about spiritual enemies and the harmful influences they represent.

The phrase “all the power of the enemy” is broad, showing that no part of satan’s rule is beyond this delegated authority. Plus, the assurance that “nothing shall hurt you” speaks to divine protection during spiritual battles. This doesn’t promise immunity from all physical harm or life’s hardships, but rather protection from the enemy’s ultimate destructive power in their mission.

As believers, we can face spiritual challenges with confidence, knowing that God has given us the authority to succeed. It invites us to step into this truth, not with pride, but with humble confidence that Christ Himself has equipped us for victory.

Living in Delegated Authority

Jesus’ authority is to be used to advance His Kingdom, defeat darkness, bring healing, and share good news. The authority of a believer means understanding our role in influencing the world for God’s glory. We do this through prayer, speaking God’s truth, serving others, loving, and resisting evil.

When we face spiritual opposition, we can stand firm in Christ’s strength, actively demonstrating God’s authority. Although the disciples rejoiced over demons submitting, Jesus pointed out that our greatest joy is having our names written in heaven, proving that our security comes from God, not from our achievements. We are called to live confidently in Christ’s victory, empowered by His overcoming power.

To learn more about the authority of the believer, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Power in the Name of Jesus

Tom Graves

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October 23, 2025

Have you thought about the power in the name of Jesus? This gift belongs to every believer and is one of the greatest gifts God gives to each of His children. With that in mind, take time to learn about and use this gift to build God’s Kingdom. The story of the seventy-two highlights the power of victory that comes from using Jesus’ name. Luke 10:17 When the seventy-two disciples returned, they joyfully reported to him, “Lord, even the demons obey us when we use your name!” [1]

Imagine the scene: these disciples, sent out with little more than a divine commission and a warning about wolves among sheep, come back bursting with excitement. Their mission, which initially seemed daunting, had been remarkably successful. They hadn’t just proclaimed God’s word; they had witnessed tangible signs of His power.

The most astonishing revelation wasn’t just that people were healed or received the message, but that demons yielded to their authority. This wasn’t because of any power within themselves, but specifically “in your name”—in the name of Jesus. This verse serves as a potent reminder that when we act within God’s will and by His authority, even the most significant spiritual obstacles must bow.

Authority Delegated

The disciples explained, “Even the demons obey us when we use your name.” This emphasizes a profound theological truth: the power they used was not their own but delegated authority from Jesus. They didn’t cast out demons through their own strength or wisdom but by calling on the name of their Lord.

The concept of delegated authority is crucial to understanding Christian ministry and spiritual warfare.Jesus gives us more insight. Matthew 28:18I have been given all authority in heaven and on earth.[2] This wasn’t just a one-time event limited to the seventy-two; it’s a principle that applies to all believers. He now chooses to share that authority with His followers. When we pray, when we serve, when we oppose evil, we do so not in our own power but in the name of Jesus, knowing that all power is in Him.

Living in His Name

What does it mean for us today that there is power in the name of Jesus? It means that His name has just as much significance today as it did in Biblical times. When we pray “in Jesus’ name,” it acknowledges that we are approaching God based on Christ’s merit, and that our requests align with His will and purpose.

The power in His name extends to every part of our lives: for salvation, healing, deliverance, guidance, and overcoming sin. Just as the seventy-two returned happily, seeing the submission of demons, we too can experience the real authority of Jesus as we live and serve in His name. To learn more about power in the name of Jesus, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1-2] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.

Preparing for Judgment

Tom Graves

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October 22, 2025

Preparing for judgment is not something we like to think about, but this is the message Jesus delivers to the cities of Chorazin, Bethsaida, and Capernaum. These cities witnessed many of His mighty works—healing, casting out demons, and proclaiming God’s Kingdom. Yet, despite signs and God’s words, their hearts remained hardened.

It’s sad when people reject Jesus’ gift of salvation, but it is not too late for you as you read this. Jesus’ lament warns of the consequences of rejecting divine truth. He compares their stubbornness to Tyre and Sidon, wicked Gentile cities, which would have repented if given such demonstrations. This prompts us to consider our response to Jesus!

A Greater Condemnation

Jesus emphasizes the severity of their impending judgment. Luke 10:13 “What sorrow awaits you, Korazin and Bethsaida! For if the miracles I did in you had been done in wicked Tyre and Sidon, their people would have repented of their sins long ago, clothing themselves in burlap and throwing ashes on their heads to show their remorse. 14 Yes, Tyre and Sidon will be better off on judgment day than you.[1] 

This comparison shows that ignorance isn’t bliss with divine revelation; the more truth we know, the more accountable we are. Capernaum, Jesus’ center of His ministry, received the harshest rebuke. They were destined for Hades. Luke 10:15 And you people of Capernaum, will you be honored in heaven? No, you will go down to the place of the dead.” [2]

The Lord’s teaching shows us that we must go beyond just hearing His words. We must move forward and build a relationship with Him. Having God’s very presence among them, hearing His teachings directly, and witnessing His miracles, yet remaining unrepentant, was a deep act of rejection.

This passage compels us to examine our own lives. How do we respond to the truth God has given us? John 8:12 I (Jesus) am the light of the world.” If you follow me, you won’t have to walk in darkness, because you will have the light that leads to life.” [3]

Receiving and Rejecting

The final verse broadens Jesus’ warning. Luke 10:16Anyone who accepts your message is also accepting me. And anyone who rejects you is rejecting me. And anyone who rejects me is rejecting God, who sent me. [4] This statement affirms the authority of the disciples and all who proclaim the Gospel, indicating our response to God’s messengers reflects our response to Him. Rejecting Jesus’s word is rejecting the Father.

It’s a call for self-examination: Are we preparing for eternity by living according to God’s will, embracing His truth, and responding with faith? When we respond to God, He leads us to a rich and abundant life—one that transforms us in this lifetime and prepares us for eternity with Him. Don’t miss the most incredible gift.

To learn more about preparing for judgment, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1-4] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Persevere in Persecution

Paula K. Graves

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October 21, 2025

Jesus wanted His disciples to persevere in persecution. He also sent them with authority in the Kingdom of God. Luke 10: 9 Heal the sick, and tell them, ‘The Kingdom of God is near you now.’ 10 But if a town refuses to welcome you, go out into its streets and say, 11 ‘We wipe even the dust of your town from our feet to show that we have abandoned you to your fate. And know this—the Kingdom of God is near!’ 12 I assure you, even wicked Sodom will be better off than such a town on judgment day. [1]

Healing the sick was a sign of God’s Kingdom, as only God could heal. Jesus healed and gave His disciples the authority to do the same. Most people of the time assumed that Messiah’s Kingdom would rid them of Roman oppression and bring political peace to the nation. However, Jesus brought a Kingdom that began in people’s hearts. When someone was willing to allow Jesus to be King over their lives, God’s Kingdom came to them.

A Warning of Unbelief

Jesus gave His disciples a heads-up on how some people would react. Even when they preached the Gospel and did miracles of healing, some would refuse to welcome them. God was pursuing the people through the disciples, but they would miss the Kingdom because of their refusal. When the disciples shook the dust of the town from their feet, they demonstrated that the town had chosen their fate.

A town’s rejection of the disciples’ message wouldn’t change the message. God’s Kingdom had come near to them through the work of the disciples. These disciples were to persevere and continue preaching the Gospel message. The message’s urgency doesn’t change in the face of resistance. They were to remain steadfast even when the mission was difficult.

Rejection Has Consequences

We find the story of Sodom in Genesis 19. God destroyed this city because of its great wickedness. Even today, the city’s name remains a symbol of evil and immorality. God judged this city on earth, and its inhabitants will also come before God on judgment day. Yet, Jesus tells us that it will be better for Sodomites than those who refuse to welcome Jesus’ disciples.

Why would it be worse for the cities that refused the Gospel of Jesus? Unlike Sodom, God had given these people the opportunity to believe in Messiah. The disciples had performed miracles of healing, yet these people still refused to believe. Because they had turned away and refused salvation, their punishment would be more severe.

This is a warning for us. One day our life will end here on earth, but we are eternal beings. We are to accept Jesus’ sacrifice for our salvation and preach it to others. Just as there was a battle for souls in Jesus’ day, the struggle continues today. We must persevere in persecution. Our message doesn’t change even if others refuse to listen. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation (Lk 10:8–12). Tyndale House Publishers.

Peaceful Provisions

Paula K. Graves

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October 20, 2025

As Jesus sent the seventy-two out, they were not to carry their own supplies but rely on peaceful provisions from those they taught. Luke 10: 5 “Whenever you enter someone’s home, first say, ‘May God’s peace be on this house.’ 6 If those who live there are peaceful, the blessing will stand; if they are not, the blessing will return to you.[1]

What is the peace that Jesus speaks of here? It was traditional to wish shalom and use it as a greeting. In this instance, I think it stood for more. Jesus had sent these followers to prepare the people for the Messiah and His peace. If the householder had a proper attitude towards God, they would be open to receiving the message of the Gospel about the coming Kingdom. If not, the peace would return to the one who had given it. Then the disciples could redirect it to others who would receive it.

Housing and Food

Jesus gave those He sent out instructions about housing and food. Luke 10:7 Don’t move around from home to home. Stay in one place, eating and drinking what they provide. Don’t hesitate to accept hospitality, because those who work deserve their pay. 8 “If you enter a town and it welcomes you, eat whatever is set before you. [2]

By staying in the same house, the missionaries would avoid specific problems. If they left one house for another, they would offend the family who first took them in. By moving around, families might begin competing for the disciples’ presence. Others might assume they weren’t good enough to hear the message. Additionally, by staying in one place, the disciples would not waste time searching for a better deal. If the disciples refused the hospitality of the town, they might be so offended that they might not accept Jesus when He came.

Jesus told his disciples to accept hospitality graciously because their work made them worthy of it. 1 Timothy 5: 18 For the Scripture says, “You must not muzzle an ox to keep it from eating as it treads out the grain.” And in another place, “Those who work deserve their pay!” [3] As a result, the disciples should willingly accept what the hosts offered in terms of food and drink.

What Does This Mean for Us Today?

Those working to preach the Gospel still need to be supported by those they serve. It still requires a trust that God will provide through others. With this said, those workers of the Gospel are not to be searching for the best deal or offer. This attitude tends to build a kingdom for themselves rather than for God. Time spent seeking larger compensation is wasted when it should be used for God’s Kingdom.

Those receiving ministry should support their leader physically and emotionally. Obviously, a congregation should pay the pastor a living wage, and if there is a parsonage, it should be in good repair. But don’t forget to support church workers emotionally. Friendship is something money can’t buy. They also need to hear that the congregation appreciates their efforts.

To learn more about peaceful provisions, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Paired for Partnership

Tom Graves

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October 19, 2025

Paired for partnership was the strategy Jesus used to bring in the harvest of souls and to support each other. Luke 10:1The Lord now chose seventy-two other disciples and sent them ahead in pairs to all the towns and places he planned to visit.[1] As Jesus sent out the seventy-two, we see there were committed believers beyond the twelve disciples. In addition, Jesus knew that the time of his death was approaching, and many people had not yet heard his message.

As the seventy-two went out in pairs, it shows us the importance of working together. Two people working together can encourage each other and share the burden of ministry as they work in the harvest field. This is why God rarely calls us to isolated service.

Pause for a moment and imagine you are one of the seventy-two that Jesus is sending out into the harvest field. If that were me, the task ahead might seem daunting. Then, as you listen, Jesus gives some helpful instructions. Isn’t this how Jesus often works? I don’t know how I will fulfill what He has called me to do, but I trust that in His timing, He will provide the guidance we need.

The Harvest is Great

Luke 10:2 These were his instructions to them: “The harvest is great, but the workers are few. So pray to the Lord who is in charge of the harvest; ask him to send more workers into his fields.[2]  Growing up on a farm, I’ve learned that having a plentiful harvest can be stressful when there are few workers to do the work. Over time, if the grain becomes too ripe, it starts to fall off, reducing your crop and highlighting the need for urgency.

In this situation, the harvest represents people who are open to the good news of Jesus. The harvest is so urgent that Jesus calls people to ask God to move supernaturally on people’s hearts to help in the harvest. When we pray, we realize we can’t do this on our own and need God’s help. As we grow in faith, God repeatedly teaches us that we need His help, or our work becomes useless. James 5:16The earnest prayer of a righteous person has great power and produces wonderful results.[3]

The Harvest Won’t Be Easy

Luke 10:3 Now go, and remember that I am sending you out as lambs among wolves.[4] Not everyone the seventy-two will minister to is interested in the good news of Jesus, and some are hostile. Only through God’s work in us can we minister effectively in the harvest field.

Finally, Jesus gave them one more instruction about depending on Him. Luke 10:4 Don’t take any money with you, nor a traveler’s bag, nor an extra pair of sandals. And don’t stop to greet anyone on the road. [5] Dependence on God for workers, protection, and provision is all part of Jesus’ way of teaching the seventy-two disciples through personal experience.

You may find yourself in a situation today where the Lord wants you to rely on Him. It may not be easy, but the Lord wants to remind us all that He is always with us and will guide and protect us. To learn more about paired for partnership, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/sent-out-2-x-2

[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation. Tyndale House Publishers.

Earthly Wealth Versus Eternal Wealth

Paula K. Graves

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October 18, 2025

Jesus had just told the Parable of the Rich Fool, which compares earthly wealth versus eternal wealth. The rich fool had bought into the lie that the one who dies with the most wealth wins. The rich man did not have a posthumous win but a loss. Jesus summed up what genuine wealth is. Luke 12: 21 Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God. [1]

I don’t believe earthly wealth is wrong, but we do need to steward our treasure in a way that honors God. One can be physically wealthy but spiritually poor. When we hoard our finances without tithing or giving compassionately, our focus is on us rather than on God. If we think we must base our security on our possessions rather than God’s provision, we lack a rich relationship with God.

When we have a rich relationship with God, we want to use our blessings to fulfill His priorities. We trust that our loving God will continue to provide for our welfare. This relationship fills us with a passion to obey God, serve Him, and give to others to build His Kingdom, not our own.

Indestructible Treasure

This wasn’t the only time Jesus compared earthly wealth versus eternal wealth. Matthew 6: 19 Don’t store up treasures here on earth, where moths eat them and rust destroys them, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 Store your treasures in heaven, where moths and rust cannot destroy, and thieves do not break in and steal. 21 Wherever your treasure is, there the desires of your heart will also be. [2]

We realize how quickly earthly treasure can disappear as we watch news reports of tornadoes and floods. Worldly wealth disappears in minutes in these disasters. It is temporary. But what are treasures in heaven or eternal wealth? These are acts of obedience to God. It can involve acts of kindness, stewarding our finances, or sharing the gospel with others to help build the Kingdom.

God sees all the acts we do and can store them eternally. No floods, tornadoes, or thieves can destroy these treasures. No earthly wealth goes to heaven. There are no U-Hauls behind the hearse. Only what we do for God out of our relationship with Him follows us to eternity.

The Desires of Our Heart

When we speak of the heart, we refer to the mind, will, and emotions. The desires of these three things focus our actions. The Rich Fool fixated on himself. Luke 12: 19 And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!” ’ [3]

What we treasure the most controls us. This isn’t limited to financial wealth but can include physical possessions, jobs, or family. Any of these things can become idols to draw us away from our relationship with God.

We must remember that it is God who blesses us with everything we have. We, in turn, are to use these blessings to bless others and for God’s Kingdom. This is a result of a rich relationship with God, which Jesus made possible for us by His work on the cross. To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/the-consequences-of-not-following

[1-3] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.

Parable of the Rich Fool

Tom Graves

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October 17, 2025

In Luke 12:16-20, Jesus shares the touching Parable of the Rich Fool, a story that still resonates strongly in our modern, often consumer-driven world. The parable describes a wealthy man whose land yielded an abundant harvest. Instead of considering how he might share his excess or use it to help others, his immediate thought was for himself.

Luke 12:17 “What should I do? I don’t have room for all my crops.”[1] His solution was to tear down his current barns and build larger ones, believing this would secure his future and allow him to “eat, drink, and be merry.” He viewed his wealth as a guarantee of a long, carefree life, a personal kingdom built on material possessions.

This story serves as a powerful mirror, showing that God wants us to honestly examine ourselves, not to shame us, but to reveal the importance of a relationship with Him. It challenges us to consider where our true treasures are. Are our treasures found in Jesus or in worldly possessions that slip away from us like sand through our fingers?

Like Many, We Have Blind Spots

The rich fool’s tragic flaw wasn’t his wealth but his self-centeredness and shortsightedness. Like many of us, we can have blind spots that require the work of the Holy Spirit to illuminate. David offers us helpful words of wisdom. Psalm 139: 23 Search me, O God, and know my heart; test me and know my anxious thoughts. 24 Point out anything in me that offends you, and lead me along the path of everlasting life. [2]

What would the rich man have done if he had considered those words? What would we do if we put those words into practice? Like many today, his plans were entirely earthly, with no thought for God or eternity. But it doesn’t end well.

Luke 12:18‘I know! I’ll tear down my barns and build bigger ones. Then I’ll have room enough to store all my wheat and other goods. 19 And I’ll sit back and say to myself, “My friend, you have enough stored away for years to come. Now take it easy! Eat, drink, and be merry!” ’20 “But God said to him, ‘You fool! You will die this very night. Then who will get everything you worked for?’ [3]

True Riches are in God

Jesus ends the Parable of the Rich Fool with a significant warning: Luke 12:21 “Yes, a person is a fool to store up earthly wealth but not have a rich relationship with God.” [4]  To be “rich toward God” means to focus on eternal values: building a relationship with Him, loving our neighbors, helping those in need, and using our resources to glorify Him. This is what life is all about and why our relationship with Jesus is so important.

As we grow in faith, the Holy Spirit transforms our lives, making us more interested in building God’s Kingdom than our own. This is the miracle of transformation as Paul writes about. Ephesians 4:22Throw off your old sinful nature and your former way of life, which is corrupted by lust and deception. 23 Instead, let the Spirit renew your thoughts and attitudes. 24 Put on your new nature, created to be like God—truly righteous and holy. [5] To learn more, listen here:

https://podpoint.com/light-of-christ-church-podcast/the-consequences-of-not-following

[1-5] Tyndale House Publishers. (2015). Holy Bible: New Living Translation . Tyndale House Publishers.

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