Complete Commitment

“If you want to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.”—Matthew 19:21 NKJV

When Antony of Egypt turned 20, he inherited his parents’ wealth. But these earthly riches left him unsatisfied. Real change only took place after he pondered the story from Matthew 19 where Jesus told a young man if he wanted to be perfect, he needed to give up everything and follow Him.

After reading those words, Antony knew he did not want an ordinary life; he wanted to be perfect. Making a radical commitment to follow Jesus, he sold all his possessions, laying everything aside to know Him more. He spent years dedicated to prayer. God rewarded him with great revelations and insights.

Recognizing that something powerful had happened in Antony’s life, others began to study his secrets. He shared how wonderful it was to experience God’s love. He urged others to pray continually, sing psalms, and stand on the Scriptures.

Augustine of Hippo, an important figure in early church history, became a Christian shortly after learning about Antony. Although he was well-educated, Augustine recognized that something was lacking in his life. Antony provided the example Augustine needed. He wrote that Antony could “storm the gates of heaven while we, for all our learning, lie here groveling in this world of flesh and blood.”

How committed are you to the Gospel? If you want to be perfect, follow Jesus. Don’t compromise or be content with a mediocre faith. Seek first His Kingdom. And dedicate everything to Him.

Reflection Question: What is Jesus calling you to give up to follow Him?