The Gospel According to Luke | Luke 20:9-26 | Pastor Rob Haslam

EVERYTHING IS GOD’S, INCLUDING YOU. Here’s why it matters: God’s Ownership Brings Perspective –  Psalm 24:1  “The earth is the Lord’s, and everything in it, the world, and all who live in it.”  When we understand that everything belongs to God—our time, talents, money, and even our very lives—we live with humility and gratitude rather than entitlement. It Aligns Us with Our True Purpose –  If we belong to God, then our purpose isn’t self-determined but God-given. This means our lives are meant to reflect His glory, love, and character in the world (1 Corinthians 6:19-20). It Leads to Trust and Freedom –  When we acknowledge that we are stewards rather than owners, we release control and trust God’s provision and direction. Jesus reminds us in  Matthew 6:33   “seek first the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.” Individualism Failure Explained This explains why individualism fails. It promotes self-sufficiency, ownership and the elevation of self, but the Bible teaches that everything—including us—belongs to God. We are not self-made; we depend on God for life, purpose, and salvation. True freedom doesn’t come from doing life alone but from surrendering to God and living in community.  Individualism leads to greed and isolation, while recognizing God’s ownership inspires generosity, connection, and trust in Him. We weren’t created to live for ourselves but to glorify God and serve others, finding true purpose and joy in Him. Romans 14:7-8: "For none of us lives for ourselves alone, and none of us dies for ourselves alone. If we live, we live for the Lord; and if we die, we die for the Lord. So, whether we live or die, we belong to the Lord." This verse directly challenges the idea of radical individualism by affirming that our lives are not our own—we exist for God, not just for ourselves. It reminds us that true purpose and identity are found in belonging to Him, not in self-sufficiency or independence.