The story of the rich young ruler has always fascinated me and I have preached from it several times. The question that he asked Jesus was straightforward and even today reflects that thinking of man. He simply asked...
Matthew 19:16
And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?
The idea that good people and good works can somehow pay your ticket into heaven did not start nor end with the rich young ruler. There are many even today that remain ignorant of the scripture that fail to understand that Jesus forever erased that as a theological doctrine.
Although, the Bible does speak of works...
James 2:20
But wilt thou know, O vain man, that faith without works is dead?
It is not our works within themselves that gives us passage to heaven.
Jesus stated in...
John 3:5
Jesus answered, Verily, verily, I say unto thee, Except a man be born of water and of the Spirit, he cannot enter into the kingdom of God.
The story of the rich young ruler stands as an example to each of us. Are we willing to sell out to Jesus? We are committed and dedicated to our families and careers, but what are we willing to give up for Jesus so that we can make it to heaven. Read the following...
Matthew 19:29
And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.
I am in no way advocating selling all that you have or quitting your job, but we need to check our priorities with the understanding that Jesus expects us to make Him first. The wise man said...
Proverbs 3:5
Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding.
Proverbs 3:6
In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths.
