What Good Thing Must I Do?

The Rich Young Ruler: Choosing What Truly Matters

Bible Passage: Matthew 19:16–26

Summary: In this passage, a rich young ruler approaches Jesus seeking eternal life and asks what good thing he must do. Jesus challenges him about his understanding of good, points to the commandments, and ultimately asks him to sell his possessions and follow Him. The young man leaves sorrowful, illustrating the challenge of material wealth in relation to spiritual fulfillment.

Application: This sermon will help Christians confront their priorities and the things they hold dear that may be hindering their relationship with God. It serves as a reminder that material possessions can often stand in the way of true discipleship and the call to a life devoted to following Christ.

Teaching: The passage teaches that true goodness cannot be achieved through mere actions but is found in a personal relationship with Jesus. It underscores the idea that sometimes God asks us to give up significant things in our lives in order to gain what truly counts in the kingdom of God—eternal life.

How this passage could point to Christ: In the context of Scripture, this passage highlights Christ as the ultimate source of eternal life and goodness, pointing to His work on the cross as the only means by which we can be redeemed and inherit eternal life. Jesus calls individuals away from self-reliance and toward total dependence on Him.

Big Idea: The right thing to do is to prioritize our relationship with Jesus above all earthly possessions and desires, as true fulfillment and eternal life is found only in Him.

Recommended Study: As you prepare for this sermon, use your Logos library to dive into the cultural context of wealth in first-century Judea. This could include studying text-critical issues surrounding different interpretations of 'good' and the commandments Jesus references. Additionally, looking at parallels in the Gospels that discuss wealth and discipleship can give a broader understanding of this theme. Consider reviewing commentaries for insights on the implications of material possession and eternal life.

1. Question of Ultimate Goodness

Matthew 19:16-19

You could start by reflecting on the young man's initial question about inheriting eternal life. Jesus redirects his understanding of goodness, pointing to God as the source. This sets the stage for the entire passage's focus on deep relationship rather than superficial actions. Encourage your audience to consider where they seek goodness and guidance in their own lives.

2. Challenge of Costly Commitment

Matthew 19:20-22

Perhaps you could explore how Jesus challenges the ruler to examine his heart and attachments. Despite his adherence to the commandments, the young man is unwilling to part with his wealth, revealing a heart tethered to material security. Illustrate how Jesus calls us beyond societal measures of success to genuine discipleship that may require difficult sacrifices.

3. Possibility of Divine Grace

Matthew 19:23-26

Maybe it's important to emphasize Jesus’ teaching on the difficulty of entering the kingdom of heaven with earthly attachments. The disciples' astonishment leads to Jesus highlighting the divine possibility of salvation. Focus on how salvation is God's work through Christ, urging the audience to trust in His sovereignty over life's impossibilities.