Two misunderstandings

In today’s passage is a contrast between the childlike faith, which we discussed previously, and the faith of a wealthy young man. He had both high status and wealth. According to the Jewish teaching of the time, having wealth was considered evidence of being blessed by God. However, he lacked the assurance of eternal life. He was misunderstanding two things. (1) He addressed Jesus as “Good Teacher.” However, the term “Good” was reserved for God alone and should not be used lightly. The young man merely used flattering words. If he had confessed that Jesus is indeed God, Jesus would have blessed his faith. However, he remained silent. (2) In order to address his misunderstanding, Jesus brought up the commandments related to human relationships within the Ten Commandments. “Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, do not defraud, honor your father and mother.” His response was, “I have kept all these things from my youth.”

Jesus’ command

Jesus, deeply moved by the young man, said to him, “go and sell all you possess and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.” Upon hearing this, the young man was deeply saddened, and he went away grieving, for he had great wealth. (1) This passage is not teaching salvation by works. (2) Selling possessions is a practical expression of trust in God. Despite claiming to keep the Law, the young man was not practicing the spirit of the Law, which is to make God first. (3) Giving to the poor is the practice of neighborly love. (4) “Come, follow Me” means to live accepting that Jesus is the Messiah. Jesus’ command exposed the issues in the young man’s heart. Asceticism leads to the denial of the good gifts God provides. Materialism leads to idolatry, making wealth a god. Let us aim for a balanced life receiving God’s blessings with joy while not being controlled by them.