LUKE 18:18–23
THE RICH OFFICIAL AND THE COST OF DISCIPLESHIP
Text – Luke 18:18–23
18 An official asked him this question, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?”
19 Jesus answered him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but God alone.”
20 “You know the commandments: ‘You shall not commit adultery; you shall not kill; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; honor your father and your mother.’”
21 And he replied, “All of these I have observed from my youth.”
22 When Jesus heard this he said to him, “There is still one thing left for you: sell all that you have and distribute it to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.”
23 But when he heard this he became quite sad, for he was very rich.
Historical and Jewish Context
The “official” was likely a respected leader—possibly a synagogue ruler—who faithfully observed the Law. His question reflects common Jewish concerns about righteousness and eternal life, especially the connection between obedience to the commandments and divine favor. Jesus begins by challenging conventional understandings of goodness, directing attention to God as the source of true goodness. The commandments Jesus lists are from the second tablet of the Decalogue, dealing with love of neighbor. Wealth in ancient Judaism was often seen as a sign of God’s blessing, so Jesus’ radical demand to relinquish it would have been shocking. The man’s sadness reflects the cultural tension between material prosperity and spiritual discipleship.
Catholic Theological Perspective
Jesus reveals that salvation is not achieved merely by external observance of the commandments but by wholehearted discipleship. Catholic theology teaches that the commandments form the foundation of moral life, but perfection comes through following Christ, who calls believers to detachment and charity. The command to sell possessions is not universal but illustrates the deeper requirement: freedom from attachment to wealth. The rich official’s inability to follow Jesus stems not from wealth itself but from his heart’s captivity to possessions. Christ’s invitation—“follow me”—is a call to intimacy, surrender, and radical trust, echoing the evangelical counsels lived in religious life.
Parallels in Scripture
Dt 6:5 – Loving God with all one’s heart as the foundation of the Law.
Ps 62:11 – Wealth is fleeting; trust must be placed in God alone.
Mt 6:19–21 – Treasure in heaven rather than earthly accumulation.
Phil 3:7–8 – Paul counts all as loss for the sake of Christ.
1 Tim 6:17–19 – The wealthy are called to generosity and trust in God.
Key Terms
Eternal life – Communion with God beginning now and fulfilled in heaven.
Good – True goodness belongs to God and is reflected in Christ.
Treasure in heaven – Spiritual riches gained through charity and detachment.
Follow me – An invitation to discipleship and personal union with Christ.
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage appears in weekday liturgies and is central to teachings on discipleship, vocation, and detachment. It is often proclaimed in contexts involving religious vows, stewardship, and catechesis on the commandments. It challenges believers to evaluate their attachments and to trust Christ fully.
Conclusion
The rich official seeks eternal life but is hindered by his attachment to wealth. Jesus reveals that true discipleship requires not only moral observance but full surrender of the heart. Eternal life is found not in possessions but in following Christ.
Reflection
What possessions, comforts, or attachments keep me from following Jesus wholeheartedly? Do I obey externally while resisting deeper conversion? Jesus invites me to treasure heaven above all else.
Prayer
Lord Jesus, free my heart from attachments that hold me back from following You. Give me courage to place You above all possessions and to trust that true treasure lies in Your love. Lead me to deeper generosity and discipleship. Amen.