Francis Chan: Slavery Can Be Fun

Sermon Summary

**The Call to Follow Jesus: Giving Up Everything with Joy**

As we reflect on the call to follow Jesus, it's essential to understand that it requires giving up everything. But what does this mean? Is it merely a sacrifice or can it be done with joy?

In his previous message, Francis Chan emphasized the importance of giving up everything for the sake of the gospel. However, he now wants to add an essential aspect: we must give up everything and be happy about it. This joyful giving away is not just a feeling; it's a biblical principle.

**The Joy of Finding Treasure**

Francis Chan used the parable of the man who finds a treasure in a field (Matthew 13:44) to illustrate this point. When this man discovers the treasure, he doesn't leave sad or bummed out. Instead, he sells everything and buys that field with great joy. This story shows us that when we find God, we can have it all – not just earthly riches but eternal treasures.

Similarly, Zacchaeus's encounter with Jesus (Luke 19:1-10) demonstrates the joy of giving up everything for the sake of the gospel. When he meets Jesus, Zacchaeus is filled with joy and decides to give half of his possessions to the poor and repay those he had wronged.

**The Joy of Overcoming**

In Revelation 3:21, Jesus promises that if we overcome, we can sit on His throne. This passage emphasizes the idea that when we follow Jesus, we gain so much more than what we sacrifice. We gain eternal life, a relationship with God, and a place in heaven.

**The Problem of Taking Our Eyes Off the Treasure**

However, Francis Chan notes that our problem is often taking our eyes off the treasure. We get sucked into this world and become tempted by its riches and pleasures. When we do this, we forget what we're getting for what we're sacrificing.

**Conclusion**

In conclusion, giving up everything for the sake of the gospel is not just a sacrifice; it's an opportunity to gain so much more. When we follow Jesus, we can have it all – eternal life, a relationship with God, and a place in heaven. We must give up everything and be happy about it, understanding that this joyful giving away is a biblical principle.

**Key Takeaways**

* Giving up everything for the sake of the gospel requires joy.

* When we find God, we can have it all – not just earthly riches but eternal treasures.

* Zacchaeus's encounter with Jesus demonstrates the joy of giving up everything for the sake of the gospel.

* The promise of overcoming and sitting on Jesus' throne emphasizes the idea that when we follow Jesus, we gain so much more than what we sacrifice.

**Reflection Questions**

1. What does it mean to give up everything for the sake of the gospel?

2. How can we maintain a joyful attitude when giving up our possessions or relationships?

3. In what ways can we take our eyes off the treasure and become tempted by this world?

**Action Steps**

1. Reflect on your own life and identify areas where you need to give up something for the sake of the gospel.

2. Practice gratitude and focus on the eternal treasures that you have in Christ.

3. Share with others the joy of following Jesus and the benefits of giving up everything for His sake.

**Biblical References**

* Matthew 13:44

* Luke 19:1-10

* Revelation 3:21

Note: The above is a rewritten version of Francis Chan's message, condensed into a more readable format while maintaining the essence of his original thoughts.