“But Jesus said to him, “No one, having put his hand to the plow, and looking back, is fit for the kingdom of God.””

Meaning of “fit for the kingdom”

Different bible versions give a slightly different message for this verse.

The KJV and NKJV say the person is “not fit for the kingdom”, which could mean either not suitable for entry to the kingdom, or not useful for the kingdom’s work. The NIV uses “not fit for service in the kingdom”, and the GNT says “no use for the Kingdom”, so these both take the second meaning.

Looking back

To “look back” reminds me of Lot’s wife in Genesis 19:26, when she looked back to Sodom and was turned to a pillar of salt. And of the people of Israel in Exodus 16:3, when they looked back with longing for the flesh pots of Egypt after being freed from slavery.

Earthly idols

This points to the condition of our heart. If when turning to God we mourn the loss of earthly pleasures, our idols are still those earthly pleasures. Not only have we failed to see the surpassing richness of God’s glory that He offers, but we have failed to trust that he will offer far greater joy – it’s a lack of faith.

Useful to God

Being useful to God is also for our own benefit. I have seen family and friends become despondent as we get older, as the earthly things we prize all fail eventually. But when our trust is in God, He carries us through all earthly decay. I will always remember that even as my mother’s body was failing a few weeks before she died, she asked, “How long till I can dance and sing?” Heavenly treasures are so wonderful that nothing compares.