Luke 18:29
And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God,
English Standard Version (ESV)
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Jesus is pointing out that while human relationships are precious, the reason for leaving them is paramount. It's not about simply abandoning loved ones, but about prioritizing the Kingdom of God so fully that these sacrifices become secondary and ultimately, deeply rewarding.
Jesus is responding to Peter's question about the reward for those who have left everything to follow him. This promise is given not just to the twelve disciples, but to anyone who sacrifices their dearest relationships and possessions for the sake of God's kingdom. The context emphasizes that such profound commitment will not go unnoticed or unrewarded, both now and in the life to come.
Jesus isn't just talking about sacrifice; He's talking about why we sacrifice. What’s the deepest reason for letting things go?
When Jesus speaks of leaving things behind, the crucial phrase is 'for the sake of the kingdom of God.' This isn't about achieving spiritual brownie points or earning a reward. It's about a fundamental reordering of our loves and loyalties.
A Shift in Allegiance
The kingdom of God represents God's reign and rule. When we leave things behind for its sake, it means we are prioritizing God's will and His coming kingdom above our own comfort, our possessions, and even our closest relationships. It’s a declaration that God's rule in our lives is more precious than anything else.
Purity Over Performance
This motive is what makes a sacrifice truly count. Leaving possessions or relationships out of bitterness or a desire for human praise misses the mark. The purity of the motive—that God's kingdom is worth it all—is the key.
What happens when you give up what you love most for God? Jesus promises something astonishing, not just in the future, but right now.
Jesus’ words in this passage (though not fully in this single verse) offer a powerful paradox: the way to gain true abundance is through letting go. He assures his followers that there is no genuine sacrifice made for the kingdom that goes unnoticed or unrewarded.
More Than a Fair Exchange
The promise isn't simply about getting back what you lost, but receiving 'manifold more.' This isn't a transactional arrangement but a testament to the overflowing generosity of God's kingdom. It speaks to a richness of life, peace, and purpose that transcends material or relational loss.
Present and Future Blessings
This abundance is experienced both now and in the age to come. In this present time, it means finding joy, spiritual family, and deep fulfillment even amidst hardship. In the age to come, it culminates in eternal life, the ultimate inheritance for those who have wholeheartedly followed Christ.
Understand the original words
basileia tou Theou · Greek Noun
The supreme, sovereign authority and rule of God. It refers to both the present reality of His reign over the hearts of believers and the future consummation of His kingdom when He reigns openly over all creation.
This teaching comes at a critical moment as Jesus heads toward His crucifixion. He's responding to a question about eternal life, prompted by a rich man's inability to give up his wealth. Jesus is emphasizing that true discipleship demands a complete reordering of priorities, placing the Kingdom above all earthly ties and possessions, even if it means severe sacrifice.
c. AD 27-30
Jesus' Ministry in Galilee
Jesus begins His public ministry, calling disciples like Peter, Andrew, James, and John, who leave their fishing businesses and families to follow Him.
c. AD 30
Jesus' Sermon on the Mount
Jesus delivers foundational teachings, including blessings for those persecuted for righteousness' sake, setting a precedent for radical commitment.
c. AD 30— this verse
The Rich Young Ruler's Visit
A wealthy young man asks Jesus how to inherit eternal life, but cannot bear the cost of selling all he has and following Jesus.
c. AD 30
Jesus' Journey to Jerusalem
Jesus begins His final journey to Jerusalem, knowing what awaits Him, and continues to teach His disciples about discipleship.
This passage directly parallels Jesus' promise of reward for those who sacrifice relationships and possessions for the sake of the kingdom, adding the detail of receiving 'a hundred times more'.
Mark 10:29-30Similar to Luke, Mark's account emphasizes that leaving 'house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands' for Jesus' sake and the gospel will result in a manifold return in this life and eternal life.
Deuteronomy 33:8-11This Old Testament passage speaks to the tribe of Levi, who were set apart for God's service and received no inheritance of land, but were promised God's blessing and provision, mirroring the theme of sacrifice for divine purpose.
Matthew 6:33This verse clearly states the principle that seeking first the kingdom of God and His righteousness will lead to all earthly needs being provided, aligning with the idea that prioritizing God's kingdom brings ultimate fulfillment.
Philippians 3:7-8Paul's testimony of counting all things loss for the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus highlights the radical re-evaluation of what truly matters when the kingdom of God becomes the ultimate treasure.
pulpitLuke 18:29: "And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake,"
Verses 29, 30. - And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake, who shall not receive manifold more in this present time, and in the world to come life everlasting. Evidently, from the reports of the three ev…
clarkeLuke 18:29: "And he said unto them, Verily I say unto you, There is no man that hath left house, or parents, or brethren, or wife, or children, for the kingdom of God's sake,"
That hath left house, or parents, etc. - See on Matthew 19:28 , Matthew 19:29 (note), and Mark 10:29 , Mark 10:30 (note). Or brethren - Η αδελφας, Or Sisters, is added by the Cod. Bezae, and some others.
Jesus is pointing out that while human relationships are precious, the reason for leaving them is paramount. It's not about simply abandoning loved ones, but about prioritizing the Kingdom of God so fully that these sacrifices become secondary and ultimately, deeply rewarding.
Jesus is responding to Peter's question about the reward for those who have left everything to follow him. This promise is given not just to the twelve disciples, but to anyone who sacrifices their dearest relationships and possessions for the sake of God's kingdom. The context emphasizes that such profound commitment will not go unnoticed or unrewarded, both now and in the life to come.
Jesus is responding to Peter's question about the reward for those who have left everything to follow him. This promise is given not just to the twelve disciples, but to anyone who sacrifices their dearest relationships and possessions for the sake of God's kingdom. The context emphasizes that such profound commitment will not go unnoticed or unrewarded, both now and in the life to come.
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c. AD 30
Lazarus Raised from the Dead
Jesus raises his friend Lazarus from the dead in Bethany, a powerful sign that also intensifies opposition from religious leaders.
c. AD 30
Sanhedrin Convenes to Plot Jesus' Death
Following the raising of Lazarus, the religious council formally decides to put Jesus to death, increasing the danger.
c. AD 30
Jesus Retreats to Ephraim
Jesus withdraws to a quiet village near the wilderness to avoid capture and spend His remaining time in prayer and teaching.
"And he said to them, “Truly, I say to you, there is no one who has left house or wife or brothers or parents or children, for the sake of the kingdom of God," — Jesus is pointing out that while human relationships are precious, the reason for leaving them is paramount. It's not about simply abandoning loved ones, but about prioritizing the Kingdom of God s…
