Then...

Matthew 17-19

When the rich young ruler came to Jesus he asked “Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?” Behind his question were several assumptions... that the reward of goodness was eternal life... that there was some thing he could do that led to eternal life,,, and that Jesus would know the answer. I guess that one out of three isn't so bad.

Jesus eventually tells him that he must keep the commandments. His next question reveals a little more about his assumptions. At first we thought he came seeking knowledge... "What must I do", but now we see he is really negotiating because his response to Jesus is "Which ones?"

The Son of God loves this young ruler and knows his heart, so Jesus gives him a little break. Jesus names off the commandments that the rich young ruler could say "Yes" to. Inside his head the young man was mentally ticking them off... You must not murder... check. You must not commit adultery... check. You must not steal... check. You must not testify falsely... check. Honor your father and mother... check. Love your neighbor as yourself... check.  BOO-YAH, I nailed it, he's thinking. But just in case let's just check to see if there's anything else.

That is when Jesus let the other show drop. Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.” The rich young ruler was sad, because this was far more than he was willing to pay. If he listened closely he may also have discerned that Jesus knew his heart, for Jesus never argued with his previous checks, but now he said Do this... and THEN come follow me. After you do what you need to do, then you can follow me to eternal life, not before.

The same is true today. Even though Jesus has already paid the price for our admission, but we must believe on him first, then follow him... if we are willing to pay the price.