“Say that these two sons of mine are to sit, one at your right hand and one at your left, in your kingdom.” (Matthew 20:21)
During his earthly ministry, Jesus had a group of disciples who followed him for three years. Today’s Bible verses record how the mother of two of these disciples came to Jesus with a request: she wanted her sons to get the best positions in Jesus’ kingdom. When the other disciples heard about this request, they were indignant at the two brothers — probably because they wanted exactly the same for themselves.
These disciples were not the last ones to seek profit from their relationship with Jesus. History provides countless examples, and maybe you know people in your own surroundings who profit from their reputation as a “good Christian” or from their position in the church.
Being a pastor can gain you respect, and belonging to the local church can be a useful “entrance ticket” into a community. These side effects are not necessarily wrong, as long as they are just side effects. They should never be the reason for becoming a Christian. If you only want a relationship with Jesus because this could bring you certain advantages, you will be disappointed. Nowhere does Jesus guarantee you a good position in society or financial profit. He offers something far more valuable: eternal life.
What is your motivation for being a Christian?