The historical narrative concerning the rich young ruler has a message for everyone. Jesus was being questioned by the Pharisees who were yet again trying to trick him into saying something that was in violation of scripture. But once again Jesus had the right answer and silenced them. Because, they could not question the truth of what he said. After this, a man described by scripture as a rich young ruler asked Jesus what he needed to do to get into heaven. So, Jesus told him.
Jesus and The Rich Young Ruler
Jesus told the rich young ruler to sell everything he had and give it to the poor. Then take up the cross and follow me. With this statement, the young man became dejected and wandered off. Why? Because he “had great possessions.” He was rich and his riches became more important to him than Christ.
He came to Jesus excited and ready to serve. Then Jesus shared with him the cost of following Jesus. The cost was too much of the rich young ruler. Why? The Bible says:
“It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.” Mark 10:25
The Disciples Question Jesus About the Rich Young Ruler
The disciples ask Jesus, well who can get to heaven if this rich young ruler can’t go to heaven. Because they were under the impression that only people blessed by God were rich. But that’s just not true. People are blessed in many ways by God. Monetary wealth in actually pretty rare amongst true believers. Because money and prosperity leave you with the impression that you no longer need God. You can fend for yourself.
So, How are We Blessed?
Most people are blessed in ways other than riches. They may receive long life, healthy children, a good job that pays the bills, physical heath and more. So, Jesus was teaching them that those that are willing to give up everything to serve Him were the ones that would make it to heaven.
The Moral of the Historical Narrative of The Rich Young Ruler
The moral is that you must serve the Lord first. Nothing can be placed above service to Christ. Whether it’s family, friends, your job or your riches, nothing should stand in your way. Therefore, you must be ready to give up anything and everything to serve Christ. You must be prepared to take up the cross and follow Him. This lesson is profoundly important or God wouldn’t have seen fit to share it in Mathew 19, Mark 10, and Luke 18. Always trust and serve Christ first! Everything else is second.