The dynamics of discipleship (part 4)

“You know the commandments: ‘Do not commit adultery,’ ‘Do not murder,’ ‘Do not steal,’ ‘Do not bear false witness,’ ‘Honor your father and your mother.’” – LUKE 18:20

Jesus was answering the rich boy’s question, eliminating the things people hold sacred but have nothing to do with salvation, such as, being good or keeping the commandments, which by the way, no one but Jesus has ever done. Then He hit the boy’s idol – his wealth.

I don’t know of a preacher who wouldn’t have told this boy to bow his head and pray the “Sinner's Prayer!” (Every head bowed, every eye closed.) And then would have eventually made him a deacon and put him over the finances. But Jesus had nothing to do with this religious nonsense. He told the boy straight up, “Sell all that you have and give it to the poor and follow Me.” Simple, direct, and to the point.

Now before you cut me off, I know that many of you, including me, were convicted of our lifestyle and sinful ways and were truly saved. I remember the man who told me about Jesus, asked me if I believed Jesus would save me and all I said was, “Yes!”

But when he heard this, he became very sorrowful, for he was very rich. – LUKE 18:23