Luke 18:28 – “Peter said to him, ‘We have left all we had to follow you!'”
Extended Explanation
In this verse, Peter speaks up after Jesus’ teaching about how hard it is for the wealthy to enter the kingdom of God and His statement that salvation is only possible with God. Peter’s response is heartfelt and honest—he reminds Jesus that he and the other disciples have already made great sacrifices to follow Him. They had left behind their families, jobs, homes, and possessions to follow Jesus on His mission. Peter’s statement highlights a natural human concern: If the rich struggle to enter God’s kingdom and salvation is only possible through God, will their sacrifices be worth it?
Peter’s words reflect the common tension between the cost of following Jesus and the hope of eternal reward. Jesus doesn’t dismiss Peter’s concern. Instead, as seen in the next verses, He reassures the disciples that their sacrifices will be more than worth it, both in this life and in the life to come.
Historical Context
In the first-century world, leaving one’s family or livelihood was a significant sacrifice. Peter and many of the other disciples were fishermen with stable jobs, and others, like Matthew, had lucrative positions as tax collectors. Leaving behind their jobs and possessions to follow Jesus wasn’t a minor decision—it meant giving up financial security and the social stability that came with family and community ties.
In Jewish culture, family and land were particularly important. Families worked together, lived together, and shared property and resources. Leaving behind one’s home or family often meant severing ties and losing the support system that most people depended on. When Peter says, “We have left all we had,” he’s highlighting the genuine sacrifices they made, trusting that Jesus would provide for them.
Theological Implications
This verse touches on the cost of discipleship. Following Jesus often requires sacrifice, whether it’s giving up possessions, comfort, or relationships. Peter’s statement shows that the disciples were willing to pay that price, but it also reveals a question that many believers wrestle with: Is the sacrifice worth it?
Jesus’ response in the following verses confirms that God honors those sacrifices. This verse reminds us that God doesn’t overlook or ignore what His followers give up for Him. While salvation is a gift of grace and cannot be earned, God rewards the faith and obedience of those who prioritize His kingdom over worldly things (Matthew 6:33).
This verse also highlights the need for trust. The disciples didn’t know how everything would turn out when they left their lives behind to follow Jesus. They had to trust that God’s plan was better than anything they could achieve on their own. In the same way, believers today are called to trust that God will provide for them when they put Him first.
Literary Analysis
Peter’s statement is both a declaration and a question. On the surface, he is reminding Jesus of the disciples’ sacrifices, but underneath, he is asking for reassurance. The structure of the statement—“We have left all we had”—emphasizes the extent of the disciples’ commitment. The word “all” highlights the totality of their sacrifice, showing that they didn’t just give up a little—they gave up everything.
This verse is part of a larger dialogue that contrasts worldly values (such as wealth and security) with the values of God’s kingdom. Peter’s statement bridges the discussion between the impossibility of salvation through human effort and Jesus’ promise of eternal reward.
Biblical Cross-References
- Matthew 16:24-25 – “Then Jesus said to his disciples, ‘Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will find it.'”
- Matthew 19:27 – A parallel account of Peter’s statement about leaving everything to follow Jesus.
- Mark 10:28-30 – Another parallel passage where Jesus reassures Peter and the disciples that their sacrifices will be rewarded.
- Philippians 3:7-8 – “But whatever were gains to me I now consider loss for the sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a loss because of the surpassing worth of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord.”
These passages emphasize the cost of discipleship but also the promise that following Jesus leads to eternal life and rewards that far outweigh any earthly sacrifice.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder that following Jesus often requires sacrifice. While not everyone will be called to leave their job or family, all believers are called to surrender something—whether it’s control, comfort, or material possessions. This verse challenges believers to examine what they are holding onto and whether they are willing to give it up for the sake of following Christ.
Peter’s statement also speaks to those who may feel weary or discouraged after making sacrifices for their faith. It’s natural to wonder if those sacrifices are worth it, especially when the rewards aren’t immediately visible. But Jesus’ response assures believers that God sees their sacrifices and will reward them, both in this life and in eternity.
Additionally, this verse highlights the importance of trust. Just as the disciples didn’t fully understand the future when they left everything behind, Christians today are called to trust God’s plan even when the outcome is uncertain. Trusting in God’s faithfulness means believing that He will provide for our needs and fulfill His promises.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His awareness of the sacrifices His followers make. He doesn’t ignore or forget what believers give up for His sake. Instead, He promises to reward their faithfulness with blessings that far exceed what they have sacrificed.
God’s love is also seen in the way Jesus responds to Peter’s statement (in the following verses). Rather than rebuking Peter for asking the question, Jesus lovingly reassures him that their sacrifices will not be in vain. God’s love is patient and understanding, meeting His followers where they are and encouraging them to persevere.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is central to this verse because He is the one calling the disciples to follow Him and make sacrifices. Following Jesus is not just about giving things up—it’s about gaining a relationship with Him and the eternal life that only He can offer. Jesus is the reason the disciples were willing to leave everything behind, and He is the reason believers today continue to make sacrifices for the sake of God’s kingdom.
Jesus also exemplifies the ultimate sacrifice. He gave up the riches of heaven, lived a humble life on earth, and sacrificed His life on the cross to provide salvation for humanity (Philippians 2:6-8). His example encourages believers to follow in His footsteps, trusting that the eternal reward is worth the cost.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What sacrifices have you made or are you currently making to follow Jesus?
- Are there any areas in your life where you are hesitant to fully surrender to God’s will?
- How does understanding God’s promise of eternal reward help you stay faithful during difficult times?
- What can you learn from Peter’s willingness to leave everything behind to follow Jesus?
- How does Jesus’ example of sacrifice encourage you to live a life of obedience and trust in God?