The Rich Young Ruler

Mark 10:17-31

He had kept every commandment — except the one Jesus gave him.

A wealthy young man runs up to Jesus and kneels: Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life? Jesus lists the commandments. The man says: I've kept all these since I was a boy. The text says Jesus looked at him and loved him. Then the devastating instruction: One thing you lack. Go, sell everything you have, and give to the poor. Then come, follow me. The man's face falls. He walks away sad, because he has great wealth. Jesus watches him go and says: How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of God. It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle. The disciples are astonished: Who then can be saved? Jesus says: With man this is impossible, but not with God.

• Wealth
• Sacrifice
• Following Jesus
• Impossible Standards