Summary

The rich young ruler sincerely asked Jesus how to inherit eternal life. Jesus first confronted his shallow view of Him as merely a “good teacher,” then reminded him of the commandments he claimed to keep. Finally, Jesus exposed the “one thing” he lacked—his riches had become his god—and told him to sell all, give to the poor, and follow Him. The young man went away sorrowful because he loved his possessions more than eternal life, illustrating how wealth can hinder devotion to God. This study also shows that under grace today, salvation is received freely by believing in Christ alone, and not by works.