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He Failed the Test, October 21
Mark 10:17-27
Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou
lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and
thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and
follow me.
Mark 10:21
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Christ looked into the face of the young man, as if reading his life and
searching his character. He loved him, and He hungered to give him that peace
and grace and joy which would materially change his character....
With what earnest, anxious longing, what soul hunger, did the Saviour look
at the young man, hoping that he would yield to the invitation of the Spirit of
God! ... The ruler was quick to discern all that Christ’s words involved, and he
became sad.... To give up his earthly treasure, that was seen, for the heavenly
treasure, that was unseen, was too great a risk. He refused the offer of eternal
life, and went away, and ever after the world was to receive his worship.
Thousands are passing through this ordeal, weighing Christ against the
world; and many choose the world. Like the young ruler, they turn from the
Saviour, saying in their hearts, I will not have this Man as my leader.... All
should consider what it means to desire heaven, and yet to turn away because
of the conditions laid down. Think of what it means to say “No” to Christ. The
ruler said, No, I cannot give You all. Do we say the same? ...
The ruler’s possessions were entrusted to him that he might prove himself
a faithful steward; he was to dispense these goods for the blessing of those in
need. So God now entrusts men with means, with talents and opportunities, that
they may be His agents in helping the poor and the suffering. He who uses his
entrusted gifts as God designs becomes a co-worker with the Saviour....
To those who, like the young ruler, are in high positions of trust and have
great possessions, it may seem too great a sacrifice to give up all in order to
follow Christ. But this is the rule of conduct for all who would become His
disciples. Nothing short of obedience can be accepted. Self-surrender is the
substance of the teachings of Christ
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The Desire of Ages, 519-523
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