Matthew 19:25

“Who then can be saved?”

This conversation between Jesus and the disciples is about “saved.”  Jesus wants us to think this through.  The rich young man must have had a clear understanding of life after death.  He has had a good life here, so how can he make sure he will have a good “eternity?”

Jesus surprised the man and especially his own disciples with his answer, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven.” v 12  This is precisely what this man had no intention of doing. As he grasped the good things of earth he wanted to know how to do so in the life which is to come.  Jesus’ word froze him. He went away sad – sad because he did not want to give up what he had worked for and sad, probably, that Jesus did not sympathize with him at all.

It is as though Jesus is saying, “Give everything to God willingly, without any conditions, and then just rest on the goodness of God, no matter what.”  The faith in God that Jesus is talking about grasps nothing but releases all to the mercy of God.

Wesley’s hymn says,

“Hereafter none can take away my life or goods or frame. Ready at thy demand to lay them down I always am.”