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Rich Young Ruler Lacked One Thing
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He longed to see in him a humble and repentant heart, hiding its
shortcomings in the perfection of Christ.
In this ruler Jesus saw just the help He needed in the work of
salvation. If he would place himself under Christ’s guidance, he
would be a power for good. Christ, seeing into his character, loved
him. Love for Christ was awakening in the ruler’s heart, for love
produces love. Jesus longed to see him become a coworker with
Him. He longed to develop the excellence of his character and to
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sanctify it to the Master’s use. If the ruler had then given himself to
Christ, how different would have been his future!
“You still lack one thing,” Jesus said. “Sell all that you have
and distribute to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and
come, follow Me.” Christ read the ruler’s heart. Only one thing he
lacked, but that was a vital principle. He needed the love of God
at the core of his life. If this lack went unfilled, it would prove
fatal. His whole nature would become corrupted. In order for him to
receive the love of God, he must surrender his supreme love of self.
Christ called for him to choose between heavenly treasure and
worldly greatness. Self must yield; he must give his will into Christ’s
control. The young ruler had the privilege of becoming a co-heir
with Christ to the heavenly treasure. But he must take up the cross
and follow the Savior in the path of self-denial.
The choice was left with him. Jesus had shown him the fatal
spot in his character. If he decided to follow Christ, he must obey
His words in everything. He must turn from his ambitious projects.
With earnest, anxious longing, the Savior looked at the young man,
hoping he would yield to the invitation of the Spirit of God.
Christ’s words were words of wisdom, though they appeared
severe. The ruler’s only hope of salvation was in accepting and
obeying them. His position and possessions were exerting a subtle
influence for evil on his character. If he cherished them, they would
replace God in his affections.
Did Jesus Demand Too Much?
The ruler, quick to understand all that Christ’s words involved,
became sad. He was a member of the honored council of the Jews,
and Satan was tempting him with flattering prospects for the future.