Read Matthew 19:16-22; Luke 19:1-10.
Both Zacchaeus and the young ruler were rich. That's where their similarity ends. Zacchaeus went away saved and transformed, while the young ruler went away grieved. What made the difference? What was in each man's heart. Zacchaeus had genuine interest in Jesus, while the young ruler had an agenda.
We know Jesus' conversation with the young ruler but not Jesus' conversation with Zacchaeus at the house. That must've been some conversation!
A softening work had been operating in Zacchaeus' heart. He responded clearly, rightly and early.
1. You cannot serve God and money (Mt. 6:24). How do you know if you're serving money? Is there any amount or any account that is off limits to God? If He asked for it all, would you give it?
2. What's in your heart? (Prov. 4:23). In other words, why are you coming to Jesus? Why do you want Him to come to you? Motive matters. Not everyone who comes to Jesus is interested in the salvation He offers and the transformation it brings.
3. Coming to Jesus should result in living for Jesus (Col. 2:6-7; 3:1-17). Zacchaeus surrendered his money and made restitution. There was no life change in the young ruler (except that he became more sad, as is always the case when a person turns away from Jesus' counsel).
4. Never underestimate the preparatory work of the Holy Spirit.
5. Beware the ugliness of self-righteousness and its seduction. Works cannot justify you (Gal. 3:11; Eph. 2:8-9). Having been justified apart from works, you cannot then not work (act, respond, change, obey) (Eph. 2:10; Jam. 2:26).
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