“What may I do to inherit eternal life?” Joe Baldwin walks through Jesus’ conversation with the rich young ruler. He encourages the students to attach themselves to godly people, and to repent of sin and give Jesus their whole lives in obedience.
Scripture Text
Mark 10:17-28
Main Points or Ideas
- The Question of Eternal Life - The rich young ruler came to Jesus asking what he must do to inherit eternal life. Though he was religious, kept the commandments, and considered himself good, Jesus identified that one thing was lacking in his life.
- Understanding True Goodness - Jesus corrected the young man's understanding by stating that no one is good but God alone. The world's definition of "good" is vastly different from God's definition. Many people are considered "good" by worldly standards, but the question is whether they are godly.
- Jesus Loved Him Despite His Self-Righteousness - Even though the young man was self-righteous and thought he was good enough, the Bible says Jesus looked at him and loved him. Jesus loves every person, but many lack what is truly necessary for salvation.
- The One Thing Lacking Was Jesus - Jesus told the young man to sell his possessions, give to the poor, take up the cross, and follow Him. The issue wasn't really about his riches—it was about whether Jesus was Lord of his life. Something stood between him and salvation, and he went away sorrowful because his possessions meant more to him than his soul.
- Salvation Requires Surrender - Baldwin shares his own testimony of hitting bottom at age 26 and realizing something was missing in his life. When he finally understood the gospel, he learned that salvation isn't just about saying a prayer—it's about giving your life to Jesus and making Him Lord. Salvation requires recognizing you're lost, repenting of sin, and surrendering your life to Christ.
- With God All Things Are Possible - When the disciples asked who could be saved if it's so hard for the rich, Jesus responded that with men it's impossible, but with God all things are possible. Anyone can be saved—rich or poor—because God can do the impossible.
Conclusion
Salvation isn't just about being a good person or saying a prayer—it's about surrendering everything to Him.
