How does Jesus' response in Matthew 19:16 challenge modern views of salvation? Setting the Scene A wealthy, well-mannered young man approaches Jesus and asks, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to obtain eternal life?” (Matthew 19:16). Modern Assumptions about Salvation • “God grades on a curve; I’m basically good.” • “Add a few religious works to tip the scale.” • “Sincerity is what really counts.” • “A loving God wouldn’t demand absolute obedience.” Jesus’ Surprising Answer “Why do you ask Me about what is good? … There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.” (Matthew 19:17) How the Response Confronts Today’s Thinking • Absolute standard of goodness – Jesus redirects the focus from human goodness to God’s perfect holiness (Isaiah 6:3). – Modern culture prizes relative morality; Jesus insists only God is good. • Works cannot be defined on our terms – The young man wanted a single “good thing.” – Jesus points him to the whole law (Exodus 20:1-17), shattering the idea of a checklist we can manage. • Exposure of hidden idols – “Sell your possessions … then come, follow Me.” (Matthew 19:21) – Today’s idols—comfort, success, self-expression—still compete with wholehearted surrender (1 John 2:15-17). • Necessity of obedience flowing from faith – The law reveals sin (Romans 3:20) and drives us to grace (Galatians 3:24). – Genuine trust produces practical submission (James 2:17). – Salvation is by grace alone, yet grace never leaves a life unchanged (Ephesians 2:8-10). Law and Grace in Harmony • The commandments expose our need; Christ fulfills that need (Matthew 5:17). • What is impossible for man (“Who then can be saved?” Matthew 19:25) is accomplished by God (“With God all things are possible.” Matthew 19:26). Takeaways for Believers Today • Stop measuring yourself against others; measure against God’s holiness. • Admit that even the “best” of us cannot meet God’s standard. • Surrender whatever competes with complete allegiance to Christ. • Rest in Christ’s finished work, then walk in obedient gratitude. |
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