Matthew 19:28 Jesus said to them, “Truly I tell you, at the renewal of all things, when the Son of Man sits on his glorious throne, you who have followed me will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.
Today’s verse came near the end of Jesus’s ministry, as they journeyed toward Jerusalem. At this point in the story, the rich young ruler had just rejected Jesus telling me to give up his riches to follow Him. Peter inquired as to the reward the disciples would receive for following Him (Matthew 19:27). And this verse is the response He gave.
The disciples gave up everything to follow Jesus. They literally dropped everything and followed Him. And He validated their sacrifice and assured them that they would have a role in His future kingdom.
He used the phrase “at the renewal of all things.” I found this to be interesting wording, wanting to see the original language to understand if it was translated correctly. Jesus used the Greek word palingenesia, which translates to “regeneration” or “renewal of all things.” From everything I read about this phrase, it refers to the end time restoration of the world and the time when creation will be redeemed.
The verse itself showed Jesus telling the twelve apostles they would sit on twelve thrones and judge the twelve tribes of Israel, all of which is validating what we said above about it being the end of time and the final restoration of creation. It points to a literal restoration of national Israel along with the establishment of Christ’s throne on earth.
Though it spoke specifically about the role the twelve would have in the end, it does have application to our lives, as well. Matthew 19:28 reminds us that any earthly sacrifice made for Him is nothing compared to the eternal glory yet to come.
We need to remember this: The things we sacrifice today here on earth are temporary. The rewards we will reap in heaven are eternal. Though the sacrifices now feel challenging, we are called to prioritize His will over our worldly possessions or earthly comforts. The coming glory will be worth every sacrifice we make, and we’ll each have a role in the eternal kingdom.
Prayer: Lord, Help me to give up things here on earth that are temporary. Recognize my sacrifices for You and help me to realize that You are enough for me. Amen
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