A Man’s Response to Jesus
A ruler, a wealthy ruler, asked Jesus what he needed to do to inherit eternal life. We are not told his motive for asking this question. But we are told how he responded to Jesus’ answer.
After the man heard Jesus state some of the Ten Commandments he said he had kept these from his youth. How commendable is that?!
Then Jesus said:
(NASB) Luke 18:22 “…‘One thing you still lack; sell all that you possess and distribute it to the poor, and you shall have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.’”
Wealth, position, power, righteous living – all sound good. But Jesus said there was still a lack in this man’s life. Perhaps his wealth possessed him. Scripture does not say. And Jesus then invited the man to follow Him.
Has Jesus asked you to follow Him? He does not turn anyone away. He is inclusive. He is asking you to follow Him, this day!
How are you responding to Him?
Watch this ruler and how he responded to Jesus:
(NASB) Luke 18:23 “But when he heard these things, he became very sad, for he was extremely rich.”
In this same story found in Matthew we are given another detail:
(NASB) Matthew 19:22 “But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property.”
This young man turned away from Jesus – he apparently did not follow Him. He turned from the Creator and Giver of life!
How are you responding to Jesus?