Matthew 19:17

And he said vnto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandements. Matthew 19:17 (KJV)

And he said unto him,

Why callest thou me good?

there is

none good but one,

that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. Matthew 19:17 (KJV)

This verse is part of a larger conversation between Jesus and a young man often referred to as the “rich young ruler.” The young man had approached Jesus with a question, asking what good thing he should do to obtain eternal life. In response, Jesus begins by questioning the young man’s use of the term “good” when addressing Him. He asks why the man calls Him “good” and highlights that there is only one who is truly good, and that is God. This statement directs the young man’s attention to God’s ultimate goodness and His divine nature. Jesus then advises that if the man wishes to enter into life, he must keep the commandments. The passage underscores that God alone possesses perfect goodness. It also underscores the importance of adhering to the commandments as an expression of sincere faith. While salvation is ultimately received through faith in Jesus Christ, the fulfilment of God’s commandments and living a righteous life are essential expressions of genuine faith. The encounter with the rich young ruler underscores the impossibility of obtaining salvation through mere personal merit or the fulfilment of the law alone. Later in the Gospels, Jesus teaches that salvation is possible only through Him, as He is the Way, the Truth, and the Life (John 14:6). The grace of God and faith in Jesus Christ remain central to the Christian understanding of salvation. This exchange should be understood within the whole Gospel narrative.