Study 27
A man unwilling to face facts
Read Mark 10v17-31
In this passage we are told about a man who comes to Jesus with seemingly the best intentions in the world. But despite the fact that Jesus loved him he never became a Christian. He left Jesus very sad indeed.
Not knowing
There are two reasons for this. The first is that he did not realise who Jesus really was. Jesus is more than a good teacher. He is "God with us" (see Matthew 1:23).
The second reason is that he did not know himself. He thought he was perfect but as Jesus clearly points out he had made an idol of his money and he couldn't give it up - so he had broken the first and greatest commandment in the process.
He was unwilling to face these two things and left a sad and pathetic man. Do you love money or possessions more than Jesus?
Jesus then states how impossible it is for this man or anyone else for that matter to become a Christian (verse 25) because all of us have broken the ten commandments. All of us have broken God's law and deserve to be punished: "for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God" (Romans 3:23).
God’s power
Humanly speaking it is impossible for anyone to be saved (verse 26). But God has provided a perfection apart from His law through Jesus' perfect life and death - for all those who believe: "But now a righteousness from God, apart from the law, has been made known...this righteousness from God comes through faith in Jesus Christ to all who believe" (Romans 3:21-22)
Whatever Christians lose in this life they will be rewarded - both now and in eternity (verses 29 & 30).
Time to think
- What do you love more than Jesus?
- Will the reward in heaven outweigh any reward in this life?
If you have any questions during or after completing this study please email Us