Jesus And A Rich Young Ruler

AS JESUS goes on through the district of Perea toward Jerusalem, a young man runs up and falls on his knees before him. The man is called a ruler, probably meaning that he holds a prominent position in a local synagogue or even that he is a member of the Sanhedrin. Also, he is very rich. "Good Teacher," he asks, "what must I do to inherit everlasting life?" "Why do you call me good?" Jesus replies. "Nobody is good, except one, God." Likely the young man uses "good" as a title, so Jesus lets him know that such a title belongs to God.

"If though," Jesus continues, "you want to enter into life, observe the commandments continually." "Which ones?" The man asks. Citing five of the ten commandments, Jesus answers: "Why, you must not murder, You must not commit adultery, You must not steal, You must not bear false witness, Honor your father and your mother." And adding an even more important commandment, Jesus says: "You must love your neighbor as yourself." "All these things I have kept from my youth on," the man answers with all sincerity. "What am I yet lacking?"

Listening to the man's intense, earnest request, Jesus feels love for him. But Jesus perceives the man's attachment to material possessions and so points out his need: "One thing is missing about you; go, sell what things you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven, and come be my follower."

Jesus watches, no doubt with pity, as the man rises and turns away deeply saddened. His wealth blinds him to the value of true treasure. "How difficult," Jesus laments, "It will be for those with money to enter into the Kingdom of God!" Jesus' words astound the disciples. But they are surprised even more when he goes on to state a general rule: "It is easier, in fact, for a camel to get through the eye of a sewing needle than for a rich man to get into the Kingdom of God."

"Who, in fact, can be saved?" The disciples want to know. Looking straight at them, Jesus replies: "With men it is impossible, but not so with God, for all things are possible with God." Noting that they have made a choice very different from that of the rich young ruler, Peter says: "Look! We have left all things and followed you." So he asks: "What actually will there be for us?"

Next time: Conclusion of Jesus And A Rich Young Ruler

The Greatest Man Who Ever Lived, 1991