Setting Our Hope (part 3)

Jesus said to him, "If you wish to be perfect, go, sell your possessions, and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me."
Matt 19:21 (NRSV)

Now that's tough! I don't believe He's using any figurative language here, He really means it. Notice in verse 16 the man asks for it, "Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?" Matt 19:16 (NRSV) So Jesus answers the question, but it's not the answer he expected or at least was prepared for. Apparently this would be the fix for the heart condition this man suffered from. We have to keep in mind that Jesus was able to know the heart, so He's right on target.

When the young man heard this word, he went away grieving, for he had many possessions.
Matt 19:22 (NRSV)

He couldn't do it...he wouldn't do it. Where was his heart? Wrapped up in his possessions. I believe Jesus was trying to shift the man's focus from himself to others. No go! Possessions are fine as long as Jesus has your heart. If eternal life depended on it, could you give it all away? The answer shows the heart.

Deny