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Matthew 19:16
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- John Gill
John Gill Bible Commentary
And behold, one came,.... The Persic version reads, "a rich man"; and so he was, as appears from what follows: Luke calls him, "a certain ruler"; not of a synagogue, an ecclesiastical ruler, but a civil magistrate: perhaps he might be one of the sanhedrim, which consisted of "twenty one" persons; or of that which consisted only of "three", as in some small towns and villages Mark represents him as "running"; for Christ was departed out of the house, and was gone into the way, the high road, and was on his journey to some other place, when this man ran after him with great eagerness; and, as the same evangelist adds, "kneeled to him"; thereby paying him civil respect, and honour; believing him to be a worthy good man, and deserving of esteem and veneration: and said unto him, good master: some say, that this was a title which the Jewish doctors were fond of, and gave to each other, but I have not observed it; he seems by this to intimate, that he thought him not only to be a good man, but a good teacher; that he was one that came from God, and taught good doctrine, which induced him to run after him, and put the following question to him: what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? Or, as in the other evangelists, "inherit eternal life"; a phrase much in use with the Jewish Rabbins (a): "Judah confessed, and was not ashamed, and what is his end? , "he inherits the life of the world to come" (i.e. eternal life); Reuben confessed, and was not ashamed, and what is his end? "he inherits the life of the world to come".'' This man was no Sadducee, he believed a future state; was a serious man, thoughtful about another world, and concerned how he should enjoy everlasting life; but was entirely upon a legal bottom, and under a covenant of works; and speaks in the language and strain of the nation of Israel, who were seeking for righteousness and life by the works of the law: he expected eternal life by doing some good thing, or things; and hoped, as the sequel shows, that he had done every good thing necessary to the obtaining it. (a) T. Bab. Sota, fol. 7. 2.
Matthew 19:16
The Rich Young Man
15And after He had placed His hands on them, He went on from there.16Just then a man came up to Jesus and inquired, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to obtain eternal life?”
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
How to Get a Camel Through a Needle's Eye
By John Piper1.6K39:57MAT 6:33MAT 19:16MAT 19:18In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the topic of salvation and the desire for eternal life. The text being discussed is Matthew 19:16, where a man asks Jesus what good thing he must do to have eternal life. The speaker emphasizes that salvation is described in six ways in this text, with eternal life being the first. The sermon also highlights the importance of evangelism and faith, as the speaker calls for the church to strive for three impossible goals: nine million dollars pledged, 1500 more people brought to Christ, and a thousand people sent out as missionaries.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Resources for Righteousness
By George Verwer9371:10:01RighteousnessMAT 6:19MAT 10:7MAT 13:22MAT 19:16In this sermon, the speaker discusses the importance of taking action when faced with injustice and violence. He emphasizes the need to not simply ignore or dismiss such events, but to actively engage and make a difference. The speaker shares his personal experience of canceling some subscriptions and taking new ones out to support causes he believes in. He then references Acts chapter 20, where the apostle Paul emphasizes the value of labor and supporting the weak, and Jesus' teaching on the importance of giving. The sermon concludes with a reminder to preach the kingdom of heaven, heal the sick, and freely give, trusting in God's provision.
God Meets the Need but Not the Greed ~ Matthew 20v1-16
By William MacDonald93639:46GreedMAT 6:33MAT 19:16MAT 19:27MAT 20:1MAT 20:30In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing a previous interaction between Jesus and a rich man who asked about inheriting eternal life. Jesus tells the man to keep the commandments, but the man proudly claims to have already done so. The speaker then introduces the parable of the laborers in the vineyard from Matthew 20:1-16. The parable tells the story of a householder who hires laborers at different times of the day and pays them all the same wage. The speaker emphasizes the compassion of the householder towards the unemployed men and relates it to God's love for humanity.
(Luke) 44 - the Mercy of God
By Ed Miller92645:38MAT 19:16MAT 22:36MRK 10:17LUK 17:11LUK 18:18In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of not judging God based on external appearances. He uses the example of the unjust judge to illustrate how things may look good on the outside but be bad on the inside. The preacher then moves on to the parable of the proud Pharisee and the humble tax collector, emphasizing the truth of salvation. He highlights the need to trust in God's mercy rather than relying on one's own righteousness. The sermon concludes by summarizing the key points of salvation, emphasizing that those who trust in themselves will not be justified, but those who humbly trust in God's mercy will be.
Plain Talk to My Generation
By Henry Mahan85527:20MAT 19:16JHN 17:3In this sermon, the preacher discusses the concept of plain preaching to his generation. He emphasizes that no man has the ability to obey the commandments and please God. The preacher also highlights the importance of facing the matter of the Lordship of Jesus Christ and confessing Him as Lord and Master. He cautions against equating America, patriotism, and democracy with Christianity, stating that they are not synonymous and that America is not the kingdom of God. The preacher urges the audience to recognize their sinfulness before God and to listen attentively to his message.
Living by God's Promises
By K.P. Yohannan59421:39PromisesMAT 19:16In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of absolute surrender to God and walking by faith. He highlights that logic and human reasoning cannot comprehend God's promises, but we must trust and obey them. The preacher also addresses past failures and sins, emphasizing that they should not determine our future because God can make up for them. He warns against relying on false prophets and books instead of the Bible, which is the only source for knowing God's promises. The sermon concludes with the call to live a life of faith and trust in God's promises, knowing that He is faithful and will never leave us.
The Goodness of God
By Derek Melton52955:51Character Of GodPSA 107:9PSA 107:21MAT 6:33MAT 19:16ROM 3:28In this sermon, Pastor Pete discusses the goodness of God as showcased in the advent of his son. He references Galatians chapter 4, which talks about how humanity was once in bondage under the elements of the world. However, in the fullness of time, God sent his son to redeem those who were under the law, offering them adoption as sons. Pastor Pete emphasizes that it is the unspeakable goodness of God that led him to send his son to save fallen humanity, despite their lack of merit.
The Demands of a King
By Ken Baird41437:32MAT 19:16MAT 19:27LUK 10:25EPH 2:12In this sermon, the preacher discusses the story of a rich young ruler who approached Jesus and asked what he needed to do to have eternal life. Jesus challenged the young man's understanding of goodness and revealed his attachment to material possessions. The preacher emphasizes the dangers of materialism and how it can hinder one's relationship with God. He also highlights the compensating nature of God, mentioning how the disciples were promised positions of honor for leaving everything to follow Jesus. The sermon encourages listeners to prioritize their relationship with Christ above all else.
10 Commandments: Commandments 1 & 2
By Shane Idleman4840:14IdolatryObedience to GodMAT 19:16Shane Idleman discusses the first two commandments from the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the importance of having no other gods before the one true God and the dangers of idolatry. He explains that while keeping the commandments does not save us, it reveals the condition of our hearts and our relationship with God. Idleman highlights the significance of repentance and the cost of following Jesus, urging believers to examine their lives for any idols that may take precedence over their devotion to God. He also draws parallels between the commandments and the teachings of Jesus, stressing that true love for God manifests in obedience to His commands.
Kingdom Paradigm of Finances
By Mike Bickle2459:29Kingdom FinancesGenerosityMAT 19:16EPH 1:10Mike Bickle emphasizes the Kingdom Paradigm of Finances, explaining that God's ultimate purpose is to unite the heavenly and earthly realms through Jesus. He discusses the importance of understanding our financial decisions in light of our eternal assignments, warning against the spirit of covetousness that can defile our hearts and hinder our spiritual growth. Bickle encourages believers to ask God what they lack in their relationship with Him, highlighting the need for a heart aligned with God's purposes to ensure prosperity in both this life and the next. He uses the story of the rich young ruler to illustrate how wealth can complicate one's spiritual journey and emphasizes the necessity of generosity and a proper perspective on finances.
Hope: With God All Things Are Possible
By Shane Idleman1148:26Surrender to GodHopeMAT 19:16Shane Idleman emphasizes the profound hope found in God, asserting that with Him, all things are possible. He discusses the necessity of repentance and the importance of prioritizing our relationship with God over material possessions, as illustrated by the rich young ruler in Matthew 19. Idleman challenges the congregation to evaluate what they are willing to give up for Christ, highlighting that true discipleship often comes with a cost. He encourages believers to pray fervently for those who are lost, reminding them that no one is beyond God's reach. Ultimately, he calls for a surrendering of control to God, which leads to true peace and fulfillment.
Why the 10 Offend
By Shane Idleman1123:11Moral Decline in SocietyThe Ten CommandmentsMAT 19:16Shane Idleman addresses the cultural offense caused by the Ten Commandments, emphasizing that they reveal humanity's need for God rather than serving as a means of salvation. He explains that while keeping the commandments does not save us, they act as 'fruit inspectors' that reflect our hearts and our relationship with God. Idleman argues that the moral decline in society stems from a rejection of God's law, which leads to confusion and perversion, and he calls for Christians to uphold God's truth with love and urgency. He stresses the importance of understanding both grace and the law, and the necessity of turning back to God in prayer and worship to spark revival in the church and society.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
The Responsibility of Choice
By A.W. Tozer0Moral ResponsibilityFree WillMAT 19:16A.W. Tozer emphasizes the profound responsibility of human choice in his sermon 'The Responsibility of Choice.' He illustrates how Jesus respected the rich young ruler's decision to walk away, highlighting that true humanity requires the freedom to make moral choices without coercion. Tozer argues that while God offers grace and guidance, the act of repentance must come from the individual, as forcing it would undermine the essence of free will. He asserts that without the freedom to choose, neither sin nor righteousness can exist, as moral actions must be voluntary to hold true significance.
False Pretenders
By A.W. Tozer0DeceptionTrue FulfillmentPSA 116:11MAT 19:16ROM 3:4A.W. Tozer addresses the deception faced by those alienated from God, emphasizing that true peace and happiness cannot be found in worldly success, wealth, or morality. He highlights the futility of relying on external factors for inner fulfillment, citing the rich young ruler's quest for eternal life as a reflection of this emptiness. Tozer asserts that the human pursuit of success is fundamentally flawed, as it is based on false pretenses. He reminds us that every individual must confront their own spiritual condition and make a choice regarding their relationship with God.
The Cost of Being a Prophet
By Walter Beuttler0PSA 40:8MAT 19:16MAT 19:29LUK 6:20JHN 4:34Walter Beuttler preaches about the cost of being a prophet, emphasizing the need to surrender all earthly attachments and desires to follow God wholeheartedly. He reflects on the story of the rich young ruler who couldn't let go of his possessions to follow Jesus, highlighting the importance of prioritizing God above all else. Beuttler discusses the distinction between true prophets, who focus on God's will and ministry, and false prophets, who seek self-interest and recognition. He encourages aspiring prophets to embrace suffering, rejection, and selflessness in ministry, reminding them of the eternal rewards promised by God for those who forsake everything for His sake.
- John Gill
John Gill Bible Commentary
And behold, one came,.... The Persic version reads, "a rich man"; and so he was, as appears from what follows: Luke calls him, "a certain ruler"; not of a synagogue, an ecclesiastical ruler, but a civil magistrate: perhaps he might be one of the sanhedrim, which consisted of "twenty one" persons; or of that which consisted only of "three", as in some small towns and villages Mark represents him as "running"; for Christ was departed out of the house, and was gone into the way, the high road, and was on his journey to some other place, when this man ran after him with great eagerness; and, as the same evangelist adds, "kneeled to him"; thereby paying him civil respect, and honour; believing him to be a worthy good man, and deserving of esteem and veneration: and said unto him, good master: some say, that this was a title which the Jewish doctors were fond of, and gave to each other, but I have not observed it; he seems by this to intimate, that he thought him not only to be a good man, but a good teacher; that he was one that came from God, and taught good doctrine, which induced him to run after him, and put the following question to him: what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? Or, as in the other evangelists, "inherit eternal life"; a phrase much in use with the Jewish Rabbins (a): "Judah confessed, and was not ashamed, and what is his end? , "he inherits the life of the world to come" (i.e. eternal life); Reuben confessed, and was not ashamed, and what is his end? "he inherits the life of the world to come".'' This man was no Sadducee, he believed a future state; was a serious man, thoughtful about another world, and concerned how he should enjoy everlasting life; but was entirely upon a legal bottom, and under a covenant of works; and speaks in the language and strain of the nation of Israel, who were seeking for righteousness and life by the works of the law: he expected eternal life by doing some good thing, or things; and hoped, as the sequel shows, that he had done every good thing necessary to the obtaining it. (a) T. Bab. Sota, fol. 7. 2.