Matthew 8:18-22 presents a powerful snapshot of discipleship, contrasting two responses to Jesus' call. This passage isn't just a historical account; it's a timeless reflection on the commitment required to follow Christ and the implications of our choices. Let's delve into the details and consider its relevance for our lives today.
The Disciples' Commitment: "Follow Me"
The passage begins with Jesus' instruction: "And seeing a crowd, he went up into a mountain, and when he had sat down, his disciples came unto him." (Matthew 8:1). This sets the stage for a profound encounter. Jesus, aware of the growing number of followers, calls for a deeper level of commitment from his disciples.
Verses 18-22 highlight two contrasting responses. The first involves a scribe expressing his desire to follow Jesus, but with a condition: "And behold, a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest." (Matthew 8:19). This isn't a completely unwavering commitment; it's contingent on Jesus' actions. The scribe wants to be a follower, but on his own terms.
The second response is from the man who says, "Lord, suffer me first to go and bury my father." (Matthew 8:21). This seemingly pious request is immediately challenged by Jesus, suggesting the man’s priorities were misplaced. While respecting family obligations, Jesus emphasizes the urgency of following him. The implication is not necessarily a rejection of familial duties, but a call to prioritize spiritual matters above all else.
Understanding Jesus' Response: Prioritizing Kingdom Work
Jesus' response in Matthew 8:22—"Let the dead bury their dead"—is often misunderstood. He's not advocating for neglecting the deceased or family; the phrase is a powerful metaphor. "The dead" represents those spiritually dead, those who are not yet committed to following Jesus and his kingdom. The man's request, while seemingly reasonable, reveals a hesitancy to fully commit his life to Christ's call. He is placing earthly concerns above the urgent call of the kingdom.
The Implications for Modern Discipleship:
This passage compels us to examine our own commitment to following Christ. Are we ready to prioritize the Kingdom of God above all other earthly pursuits? Are our commitments conditional, or are we willing to follow Jesus wherever He leads, even when it’s difficult or inconvenient?
The scribe's conditional commitment underscores the danger of attaching conditions to our discipleship. True discipleship requires an unwavering devotion, a surrender of our own plans and desires to God's will. The second man's response highlights the importance of discerning priorities. While respecting family obligations, we must not allow earthly ties to hinder our commitment to serving God.
This passage ultimately challenges us to:
- Examine our own motivations: Why do we follow Christ? Is our commitment unconditional?
- Prioritize our spiritual lives: Are we actively pursuing God's kingdom, or are we allowing other things to distract us?
- Embrace the urgency of the gospel: Are we living our lives with a sense of purpose and urgency, reflecting our commitment to Christ?
Matthew 8:18-22 is more than a historical anecdote; it's a powerful call to examine our hearts and renew our commitment to following Jesus Christ. It serves as a constant reminder of the priorities in a life dedicated to the pursuit of God's Kingdom.
