Lessons from the Rich Young Ruler (Mt 19:16-22)

Thursday's reading was Matthew 18-19.

1. Eternal life is not earned by what you do, but once you have it your behavior should show it (cf. Eph 2:8-10).
2. God's goodness demands your obedience. The best response to God's goodness is your love. If you love Him, keep His commandments (Jn 14:15).
3. Obedience is incomplete without surrender. Similar to the rich young ruler, there are those today who exhibit external compliance without internal surrender. You don't have the luxury to receive eternal life and then live how you please. There must be total surrender (cf. Mt 6:21, 24).
4. Don't expect God to let you keep what you haven't given Him. The rich young ruler had money. He trusted in his money. So what did Jesus go after?