Let the dead bury their dead

Hard Sayings of Jesus

God Won't Forgive This Sin - Matthew 12

You'll Never Die - John 11

Sell Everything You Own - Matthew 19

Love Your Enemies - Luke 6

Let the Dead Bury Their Dead - Luke 9

Hate Your Family - Luke 14

Exploit Your Friends - Luke 16

The Point:

Following Jesus takes priority over all other commitments

Luke 9:57-58

As they were walking along the road, a man said to him, “I will follow you wherever you go.”

Jesus replied, “Foxes have dens and birds have nests, but the Son of Man has no place to lay his head.”

Luke 9:59-60

And He said to another, “Follow Me.” But he said, “Lord, permit me first to go and bury my father.” But He said to him, “Allow the dead to bury their own dead; but as for you, go and proclaim everywhere the kingdom of God.”

Discuss

What is your initial reaction to Jesus' words in verse 60?

"Let the dead bury their own dead, but you go and spread the news of the kingdom of God."

Jewish Burial Customs

After about a year, family members would return to the tomb and collect the bones, placing them in a box called an ossuary. They would mark the box with identifying information and place it in the back room of the tomb where the bones of other relatives were also stored. This is the basis of the Jewish expression that the deceased “rested with his ancestors.”

Discuss

What are some excuses made by the lost to delay obedience to the call of Christ?

What are some excuses made by believers to delay obedience to the Holy Spirit?

Exuses we make for not following God

Exodous 3

1. “I’m afraid!” (vs 11)

God's Response: I'll be with you ALL the way (vs 12)

2. "I might get pushback." (vs 13)

God's Response: "It's NOT about You." (vs 14)

3. "I'm not talented enough." (vs 10)

God’s response: “I’ll make up for whatever you lack.” (vs 11)

4. “People are the problem…” (Ex 4:1)

God’s response: “I’m bigger than people.” (vs 2-5)

Luke 9:61-62

Another also said, “I will follow You, Lord; but first permit me to say good-bye to those at home.” But Jesus said to him, “No one, after putting his hand to the plow and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.”

Discussion

In what ways does looking back affect our walk with Christ.

Let Go of the past: Do not let the past become more important than where God is leading you today.

Follow Jesus with immediate obedience: Is there an area in your life where you have delayed your obedience - understand this is disobedience.

Repent and act immediately on what you know Christ is calling you to do.