Jesus Over Everything: Comfort
Overview
Following Jesus often means stepping outside our comfort zones. In Matthew 19:16-22, we see the story of the rich young ruler, who was challenged to choose Jesus over his possessions and personal comfort. His reluctance highlights a truth we all wrestle with; comfort and security can be barriers to fully following Jesus. Scripture shows examples of individuals like Abraham, Moses, and the apostles who left comfort behind to pursue God’s purpose. Discipleship requires sacrifice, but it also leads to greater joy and deeper fulfillment than worldly comfort can offer. This discussion will help us explore the cost of following Jesus, through biblical examples of those who chose Christ over comfort, and how we can embrace the discomfort of discipleship for a higher calling.
Read
Matthew 19:16-22 NIV
Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?” “Why do you ask me about what is good?”Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” “Which ones?” he inquired. Jesus replied, “ ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony, honor your father and mother,’ and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’” “All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?” Jesus answered, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
Luke 9:23-24 NIV
Then he said to them all: “Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me. For whoever wants to save their life will lose it, but whoever loses their life for me will save it.”
Discuss
Why do you think the rich young ruler found it difficult to give up his wealth and follow Jesus?
What are some personal comforts or securities that may be hindering you from fully following Christ?
Can you think of a time when you chose comfort over obedience to God? How did it impact your faith?
What are some stories in the Bible where people prioritized God’s calling over their own comfort? How can these stories inspire us today?
How does embracing the discomfort of discipleship lead to a greater purpose and fulfillment in life?
In what areas of your life do you feel Jesus is asking you to step out of your comfort zone?
How can we encourage each other to choose Jesus over comfort in a world that often prioritizes ease and convenience?
What practical steps can you take this week to embrace discomfort for the sake of spiritual growth?
Call to Action
Take a Step of Faith: Identify one area where you’ve prioritized comfort over obedience, and take a bold step to follow Jesus this week.
Reflect on Sacrifice: Spend time in prayer asking God to reveal what sacrifices He may be calling you to make for the sake of following Him more closely.
Serve Others: Step outside your comfort zone by serving someone in need, even if it challenges your time, resources, or emotional energy.
