Sermon text: Mark 10:17-22
This story focuses upon one of the great choices man must make in life. Here is an example of a man who showed great promise, yet failed miserably.
The Rich Young Ruler showed...
...eagerness. He came running with enthusiasm. He plainly and boldly asked the Lord a very serious question.
...humility. He kneeled. He was one of only three people in the the gospel accounts who kneeled before the Lord. His humility lead him to overcome whatever pride he had in his life.
...courage. He did not hide his sense of need. Though his was of high standing, he did not conceal the need he saw. He also did not seek a private interview, as others had done with the Lord. He had an immediate problem and dealt with it quickly, with no concern with what others would think or say.
...discernment. His first statement was "good master." He saw genuine goodness in the Lord. How many people today recognize the supreme goodness of Christ and his teachings? Sadly, not many.
...a certain spiritual quality. He asked, "What shall I do?" He was concerned about his spiritual needs. He did not ask for some physical favor, as other had done with the Lord.
If the story ended here, what a future we could anticipate for this young man! But there is more to the story. The rich young ruler let this wonderful day of opportunity slip away.
How could this happen? How did this happen? The young man was put to the test by the Lord - and he failed. This was a moment of decision. It was a crucial point for him. He was consumed with worldly possessions. He was will willing to bend his knee, but not his heart. He was willing to physically bow before the Lord, but he would not bow his heart. When he knew he would have to sacrifice his physical wealth, he went away sad, knowing he did not have a real commitment to the Lord.
Mark 10:17-22
17 And when he was gone forth into the way, there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?
18 And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.
19 Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.
20 And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.
21 Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.
22 And he was sad at that saying, and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.
