Mark 10:17

“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?”

Context:In this passage, we find Jesus being approached by a young man who is eager to know how he can obtain eternal life. This encounter occurs as Jesus is on His way, possibly during His itinerant ministry.

The Approach:The young man runs to Jesus and kneels before Him, acknowledging Him as a respected teacher or “Good Master.” This gesture reveals the young man’s humility and desire to learn from Jesus.

The Question:The young man asks Jesus a crucial question: “What shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?” His inquiry reflects a sincere longing for salvation and eternal blessedness.

Seeking Eternal Life:The young man’s question demonstrates his recognition that eternal life is not merely obtained through physical means or wealth. He understands that there must be something he needs to do or follow to inherit eternal life.

Implications of Inheritance:The concept of inheritance suggests that eternal life is not something we can earn or achieve on our own merit but is a gift received from God. Inheritance implies a familial relationship between God and humanity, emphasizing the grace and favour of God.

Jesus’ Response:Mark 10:18-19 records Jesus’ response to the young man’s question. Jesus says, “Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God. 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.”

The Challenge of the Commandments:Jesus points the young man to the commandments as a guide to living a righteous life. He mentions some of the commandments related to human relationships and ethical conduct. By highlighting the commandments, Jesus underscores the importance of loving God and loving others.

The Young Man’s Response:Mark 10:20 describes the young man’s reply to Jesus. It says, “And he answered and said unto him, Master, all these have I observed from my youth.” The young man claims to have faithfully followed the commandments since his youth.

Jesus’ Response:Mark 10:21 contains Jesus’ response to the young man’s claim of obedience. It states, “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.”

The Call to Discipleship:Jesus sees the young man’s heart and loves him but challenges him to go beyond mere adherence to the commandments. He calls him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. This response highlights the importance of surrendering everything to Jesus and being willing to follow Him wholeheartedly.

The Young Man’s Reaction:Mark 10:22 reveals the young man’s reaction. It says, “And he was sad at that saying and went away grieved: for he had great possessions.” The young man becomes disheartened because he is attached to his earthly wealth and unable to fulfill Jesus’ call to discipleship.

• Lessons from the Passage:This passage teaches us several important lessons. First, eternal life is not something we can earn through our own efforts but is received as a gift from God. Second, Jesus directs our attention to the commandments, highlighting the importance of loving God and others. Third, discipleship requires surrendering everything to follow Jesus, even if it means letting go of worldly possessions.

By studying this passage, we gain insights into the longing for eternal life, the significance of inheritance, the commandments as a guide, and the call to discipleship. Ultimately, we are reminded of the importance of surrendering all to Jesus and following Him with wholehearted devotion.