Ascribing proper value: Part 2

(One Perfect Life Chapters 138-143) In this portion of the Gospel we continue to expand our understanding of how God wants us to value the eternal and the things of this world. Last week we concluded with the rich young ruler valuing his possessions over his eternal destination. This week we look at several examples of God’s value system.

In the parable of the equal wages we see a landowner paying men equal amounts for very different durations of work – from one hour to twelve hours. Those that worked longer expected more when they saw those who worked less getting the amount they agreed to for an entire day’s work. The landowner states he is not being unfair because he paid what he had promised. In the same way we will all enjoy eternity in heaven whether we experience a deathbed conversion or serve our entire lives in ministry. There will be a difference in rewards (1 Corinthians 3:12-15) but there will be equal salvation.

On their way to Jerusalem Jesus tell the disciples again what will happen to Him (Matthew 20:17-19). They still do not understand and instead of being supportive of Jesus they scramble to achieve places of prominence in His Kingdom. Jesus tells them that they will suffer for the Kingdom. But He tells them that service to the Kingdom is what defines greatness not positions of authority and having others serve you. This is the exact opposite of how our current political systems work. But we are to follow His example not man’s fallen legacy.

The next parable reveals Jesus’ expectations for our service and describes how we will be rewarded (Luke 19:11-28). He describes a nobleman that entrusts his resources to his servants. He gives one man ten, one man five and the final man one measure of money. He instructed them to increase it while he was gone. The first two servants double their money while the one that received the least did nothing. The servant that was not obedient in service is punished for not using what had been given to him.

We are expected to use the gifts that God has given to us (out talents and resources) to advance His Kingdom. Our gain is measured in the people that come to faith rather than in material objects. So while there are rewards for faithful service we must also understand there will be consequence for failing to serve while we are on earth. We will not lose our salvation but we will lose out on blessing we could have received in heaven.

The account of Jesus encounter with Zaccheus draws these ideas together (Luke 19:1-10). Zaccheus understands his need for forgiveness and seeks Jesus out. Zaccheus is obedient to Jesus command to take Him into his home. He goes further to show the sincerity of His faith by giving half his possession to the poor. He holds some resources back not to support himself but to make restitution to those he defrauded. Zaccheus truly understood the economy of God.