Giving God Everything June 21

Think About It What philosophy does this bumper sticker promote?

Think About It How does this philosophy differ from the first?

Eternal Life Not Earned or Bought Today  we look at how Jesus would have responded to these philosophies. Listen to what Jesus has to say about being and doing good.

Mark 10:17 (NIV) As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. Matthew 19:16-30 (NIV) "Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?" [17] "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, obey the commandments."

Listen to what Jesus has to say about being and doing good. [18] "Which ones?" the man inquired. Jesus replied, " 'Do not murder, do not commit adultery, do not steal, do not give false testimony, [19] honor your father and mother,' and 'love your neighbor as yourself.'"

Eternal Life Not Earned or Bought What was the attitude of the wealthy man as he came to Jesus? Based on the young man’s questions, how did he expect to gain eternal life? Note the remark "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus replied. "There is only One who is good.” What do you think Jesus wanted the man to realize?

Eternal Life Not Earned or Bought How did Jesus explain the way to inherit eternal life? Note some interesting facts about this young man: At a relatively young age (probably 20 to 40 years old), this man seemed a sure fit for heaven. Luke 18:18 described him as a ruler; he was probably a synagogue official. Since he claimed to keep the commandments, the young man observed Jewish religious law. He was wealthy, which Jewish tradition held symbolized God’s blessing on a person.

Eternal Life Not Earned or Bought  In the eyes of first-century Jews, – this young man seemed to be assured of eternal life, – but he obviously knew that something was missing. In what kind of situation have you seen that “goodness” didn’t bring the reward you thought was deserved?

Listen for an amazing claim. Matthew 19:20-22 (NIV) "All these I have kept," the young man said. "What do I still lack?" [21] Jesus answered, "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." [22] When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.

Eternal Life Given when We Trust What astonishing claim did the young man make? What did he say that reveals his spiritual emptiness, the uncertainty that he had been “good enough” to enter heaven? What further assignment did Jesus give the man who came to Him?

Eternal Life Given when We Trust How did the man react to Jesus’ demands? What are some synonyms for “sad”? Verse 22 says the man went away “sad.” The Greek word lypoumenos used in this passage describes – physical pain – emotional suffering – includes the idea of becoming uncomfortable or troubled.

Eternal Life Given when We Trust The person feeling this emotion might not outwardly show his or her distress, but often keeps it hidden from others. This same word was used to describe Jesus’ sorrow as He prayed in the Garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion (Matt. 26:38). Why do you think the rich young man responded with this kind of deep emotion to the requirements Jesus gave?

Eternal Life Given when We Trust Recall the story of Zacchaeus (Luke 19:1 – 10) List some similarities of Zacchaeus and the man in our story today. What are some differences between the two men? What do you think might have made it hard for the rich young man to accept Jesus’ message? Rich Young RulerZacchaeus

Listen for what surprises the disciples. Matthew 19:23-26 (NIV) Then Jesus said to his disciples, "I tell you the truth, it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. [24] Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God." [25] When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?" [26] Jesus looked at them and said, "With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.

Eternal Life Requires Surrender, Loyalty What amazing statement did Jesus make to His disciples about riches and the kingdom of God? Why might a wealthy person find it difficult to rely completely on Jesus for eternal life? What did Jesus mean when He made the remark about the camel? How can we prevent ourselves from allowing wealth to interfere with our Christianity?

Eternal Life Requires Surrender, Loyalty How did the disciples respond when they heard how hard it is for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven? Note Jesus response “with man it is impossible” And … “with God, all things are possible” this is exactly the point Jesus was trying to get across a person cannot do enough to save himself Jesus work of redemption makes it possible for every person to have eternal life every man and woman, boy or girl can receive by faith forgiveness of sins

Application Recognize how you might be trying to “do good deeds” to satisfy God – Nothing you can do will make God love you more – Realize God loves you – Receive by faith His salvation, bought at great cost, but freely given

Application What things do you need to set aside that are the “wealth” that gets in the way of your following Jesus? – Being a workaholic – always wanting to earn more “to provide for the family” – Total involvement in a hobby – An addiction – shopping, sports, entertainment

Application You may be confronted with the choice this week of giving up something to follow Jesus – Don’t make the same mistake as the rich young ruler – Don’t go away troubled over making what you know is the wrong choice – Invest your resources eternally … in following God’s path for your life

Giving God Everything June 21