Jesus asked the rich young man to see what price he was willing to pay to inherit eternal life. Even though the young man was sincere in his desire to do the right thing, the real question is not, "are you doing the right thing?", but rather, "are you doing the right thing for the right reason?" In other words, "Where is your heart?" In Jesus' time, they prescribed to the "prosperity gospel." They believed that material blessings were the result of living a righteous life. They thought that a life of misery and poverty was the result of a sinful life.
However, Jesus preached a message that was contrary to their religion. Looking to the rich young ruler, Jesus loved him. In order to receive grace, we must accept the need for grace. With a heart of humility, we must first acknowledge that "in my flesh dwelleth no good thing." The hallmark of grace is that salvation is by grace alone through faith alone in Christ alone. For by grace are you saved through faith and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God, not of works lest any man should boast.
Jesus said to the rich young ruler, "only one thing you lack." The young man didn't think that he lacked anything. Similarly, Americans are rich in material blessings. Jesus said, "Go sell everything you have and give the proceeds to the poor." Money is a wonderful servant but it is a terrible master. You cannot serve God and mammon. Ye are slaves to whom you obey. Money gives status, power, position, and influence in a fallen world. The incentive for material wealth is a powerful influence. However, Jesus said, "Is God your God, or is your money your God?" There is irony in the motto on US currency that says, "In God We Trust." The irony is that the money itself is the god in which most Americans trust.
The rich young ruler obeyed the commandments related to "love thy neighbor as thyself." However, he had broken the first and greatest commandment: “Thou shalt love the Lord thy God with all thy heart, soul, mind and strength.” The first of the Ten Commandments says, "thou shalt have no other gods before me." In other words, "there shall be no other gods between your face and my face." The question is, "am I living for God or am I living for my possessions?" The rich young ruler walked away grieved, for he had great possessions.
God has given us all things richly to enjoy. The enjoyment is living in fellowship with our Heavenly Father, His Son Jesus Christ and one with another in the household of faith.
Material blessings pale in comparison with the greatest blessing: that we should be to the praise of the glory of His grace!
Praise God from whom all blessings flow!
Your brother in Christ, Michael
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