The Rich Young Ruler

These are some of the thoughts that came out of the youth service last night.

The disciples represent their society’s attitude to children—they’re insignificant. Rich people however were admirable and welcomed. The children were obstructed from getting to Jesus, but this rich man had no problem at all.

Jesus affirms the children and embraces them. He commends their faith. The rich however are warned. Their wealth is a hindrance to true faith. It is the opposite of what many would expect Jesus to do. He praises those who were considered insignificant and warns those who were admired.

It is their faith that matters. It is a child-like faith, not a childish faith that he commends. Children trust their parents for everything they need- food, shelter, clothing, protection, and more. They have a total trust because they know that they cannot do it themselves. Self abandoning trust, like that of a small child is what characterizes a true disciple of Jesus.

The man asks for what he can do. Jesus points him instead to his heart. Salvation is not a matter of what one does, but the surrender of the heart as we see our sin, grieve over it, repent from it, and trust Jesus alone for the forgiveness we need.

It is a matter of what we put our love and trust in. Jesus said we couldn’t serve God and money at the same time. He also said that our heart would follow our treasure.

Inner attitudes and values become outward behaviours.

The Kingdom of God demands a definite response and it wont be easy. Jesus didn’t say follow me on Sundays. He said, “Follow me.” (full stop)

To be a follower of Christ demands great commitment and sacrifice from us. We must be willing to give up everything to follow, serve and love Christ.