Matthew 19:16–30 tells the story of Jesus and the rich young ruler.
When the call of Christ confronts the comfort of wealth, which one will win? The interaction between Jesus and the rich young ruler presents this challenge vividly.
In this bold interaction, Jesus reveals that eternal life isn’t earned and following Him costs more than possessions—it costs the heart. The lesson from Jesus and the rich young ruler continues to resonate.
Matthew 19:16–30 (NASB 2020)
16 And someone came to Him and said, “Teacher, what good thing shall I do so that I may obtain eternal life?” 17 And He said to him, “Why are you asking Me about what is good? There is only One who is good; but if you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” 18 Then he said to Him, “Which ones?” And Jesus said, “You shall not commit murder; You shall not commit adultery; You shall not steal; You shall not give false testimony; 19 Honor your father and mother; and You shall love your neighbor as yourself.” 20 The young man said to Him, “All these I have kept; what am I still lacking?” 21 Jesus said to him, “If you want to be complete, go and sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, follow Me.” 22 But when the young man heard this statement, he went away grieving; for he was one who owned much property. 23 And Jesus said to His disciples, “Truly I say to you, it will be hard for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. 24 And again I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.” 25 When the disciples heard this, they were very astonished and said, “Then who can be saved?” 26 And looking at them, Jesus said to them, “With people this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.” 27 Then Peter responded and said to Him, “Behold, we have left everything and followed You; what then will there be for us?” 28 And Jesus said to them, “Truly I say to you, that you who have followed Me, in the regeneration, when the Son of Man will sit on His glorious throne, you also shall sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. 29 And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters, or father or mother, or children or farms on account of My name, will receive many times as much, and will inherit eternal life. 30 But many who are first will be last; and the last, first.
Who Was Jesus Speaking To?
- A wealthy young man obsessed with doing the right thing but missing the heart of surrender
- His disciples, who were shocked by the standard
- Us today, especially in a culture chasing success and security
What Happened?
- A rich young ruler asked how to gain eternal life.
- Jesus affirmed the commandments but revealed his deeper attachment to wealth.
- The young man couldn’t let go and walked away, grieving.
- Jesus warned how wealth can hinder the Kingdom. This resonates in the story of Jesus and the rich young ruler.
- He promised eternal rewards for those who leave everything to follow Him.
The Mood: Earnest, Challenging, Sorrowful
- The man came with genuine curiosity.
- Jesus responded with truth and love.
- The young man left troubled, revealing the conflict between faith and fortune.
The Principle: Surrender Is the Doorway to Eternal Life
- Good deeds aren’t enough.
- True following costs comfort.
- God’s grace makes the impossible possible.
- Surrender leads to eternal gain.
Audience Response (Then)
- The rich man went away grieving.
- The disciples were shocked and worried about their own sacrifices.
- Jesus encouraged them with promises of future reward. Lessons from Jesus and the rich young ruler remain relevant.
What This Means for Us in 2025
In a time when wealth, success, and personal ambition are idolized, this interaction reminds us:
- Jesus wants our hearts, not just our habits.
- Letting go of control and possessions is still the way forward.
- The rewards of following Jesus far outweigh earthly treasures. The narrative of Jesus and the rich young ruler illustrates this truth.
Action Steps for Today
- Examine what you can’t let go of.
- Invite Jesus to speak to your attachments.
- Practice surrender daily.
- Celebrate small sacrifices as steps toward eternal reward.
- Trust God with your future more than your possessions.
Final Prayer
Jesus, reveal anything in my life I’m clinging to more than You. Help me surrender fully, trusting that what I lose is nothing compared to what I gain. Give me the faith to follow You no matter the cost. In Your name, Amen.
Eternal life can’t be earned. It must be received with open hands and an uncluttered heart.
