MATTHEW 19:16-22
THE RICH YOUNG MAN
INTRODUCTION
Matthew 19:16-22 presents a powerful encounter between Jesus and a wealthy young man seeking eternal life. This passage highlights the tension between material wealth and spiritual devotion, illustrating the challenge of wholehearted discipleship. The young man approaches Jesus with a sincere desire to do what is necessary for eternal life, but his understanding is rooted in legalistic observance rather than complete surrender to God. Jesus responds by directing him to the commandments, emphasizing moral obedience as a foundation. However, when the young man presses further, Jesus reveals the deeper requirement: detachment from earthly possessions and a willingness to follow Him unreservedly. This moment underscores the radical nature of Jesus’ call, which demands not only outward righteousness but an interior transformation of the heart.
The young man’s reaction – leaving in sorrow – demonstrates the struggle many face when confronted with the cost of true discipleship. While he had faithfully observed the commandments, his attachment to wealth prevented him from fully committing to Jesus. This passage challenges believers to examine their own priorities and consider what might be hindering them from following Christ completely. Jesus’ words are not merely about rejecting material wealth but about reorienting one’s trust and security toward God rather than earthly possessions. Through this interaction, Jesus teaches that the path to eternal life is not found in mere rule-keeping but in radical dependence on and devotion to God. The rich young man’s sadness serves as a poignant reminder that the call to discipleship requires sacrifice, but the reward – eternal life and heavenly treasure – far surpasses the cost.
Matthew 19:16 “Now someone approached him and said, ‘Teacher, what good must I do to gain eternal life?’”
Jewish and Historical Context
In first-century Judaism, salvation was often viewed through the lens of obedience to the Mosaic Law. Many believed that righteousness and eternal life were obtained by following God’s commandments and performing good deeds (mitzvot). The rich young man’s question reflects this mindset – he assumes that eternal life can be earned through human effort.
The term eternal life (olam ha-ba in Hebrew) was commonly associated with the coming Messianic age, a state of perfect communion with God. By addressing Jesus as “Teacher” (Didaskale in Greek), the young man acknowledges His wisdom but does not yet recognize Him as the Messiah. Jesus’ response will challenge the man to move beyond mere rule-following and embrace a life of radical trust in God.
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. Salvation as a Gift of Grace, Not Just Good Works
The young man’s question, “What good must I do?”, suggests a belief that salvation is earned through works alone. While good works are necessary (Jm 2:26), the Catholic Church teaches that salvation is ultimately a gift of God’s grace (Eph 2:8-9). The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 1815) emphasizes that faith and works are inseparable – our response to God’s grace is reflected in our actions (CCC 2008).
2. The Moral Law and Commandments
Jesus’ initial response directs the young man to the Ten Commandments (Mt 19:17-19). This underscores the continued importance of moral living, as the Commandments remain the foundation of Christian ethics (CCC 2072). However, Jesus will soon reveal that mere legal obedience is not enough – true discipleship requires complete surrender to God.
3. Encountering Christ Personally
The young man views Jesus as a moral teacher but does not yet fully grasp His divine authority. This passage reminds Catholics that salvation is not just about following rules but about a personal relationship with Christ. Jesus later invites the man to sell his possessions and follow Him (Mt 19:21), calling for a radical commitment beyond external righteousness.
4. The Danger of Self-Reliance
The man’s focus on personal achievement reflects a common spiritual pitfall – relying on human effort instead of trusting in God. The Church warns against Pelagianism, the heresy that suggests we can attain heaven through our own efforts without divine grace (CCC 406). While we must cooperate with grace through good works, salvation is ultimately God’s gift, not something we can earn.
Reflection
Like the rich young man, many of us seek certainty in salvation. We might ask: What must I do to ensure my place in heaven? While good works and moral living are essential, Jesus calls us beyond legalism into a life of total trust and discipleship.
Are we relying only on our actions, or do we truly surrender to God’s grace? Do we view Jesus merely as a moral guide, or have we committed ourselves fully to Him as Lord and Savior? This passage challenges us to move beyond rule-following and embrace a transformative relationship with Christ.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have placed in our hearts a longing for eternal life. Help us to trust in Your grace rather than relying on our own efforts. Teach us to follow Jesus not just as a teacher but as our Lord and Savior. Strengthen our faith so that our good works may flow from love and not obligation. May we seek You above all else and surrender completely to Your will. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 19:17 “He answered him, ‘Why do you ask me about the good? There is only One who is good. If you wish to enter into life, keep the commandments.’”
Jewish and Historical Context
In Jewish tradition, God alone is the source of all goodness (Ps 100:5; 1 Chr 16:34). The young man in Matthew 19:16 had asked Jesus what good he must do to inherit eternal life, implying that righteousness could be attained through human effort. Jesus’ response challenges this assumption by redirecting the man’s focus from what is good to who is good – God Himself.
The phrase “There is only One who is good” aligns with Jewish monotheism, reinforcing the belief that true goodness originates from God, not from human deeds. Additionally, Jesus affirms that keeping the commandments is necessary for entering eternal life. This reflects the Jewish understanding that obeying God’s law was central to righteousness (Deut 6:1-3). However, as the conversation unfolds, Jesus will reveal that following the commandments alone is insufficient – true discipleship requires complete surrender to God’s will (Mt 19:21).
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. God as the Source of All Goodness
– Jesus’ statement, “There is only One who is good,” affirms that God alone is the standard of moral perfection.
– The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2052) teaches that the commandments are rooted in God’s goodness and reflect His divine will.
– Every good action we perform is a participation in God’s goodness, not merely a personal achievement (CCC 1803).
2. Obedience to the Commandments as a Path to Eternal Life
– Jesus confirms the commandments remain essential for salvation (CCC 2068).
– The Church teaches that while the Law is important, it alone does not save – it must be fulfilled through love and faith in Christ (CCC 2053).
– Faith and works must go hand in hand (Jm 2:26).
3. Jesus’ Hidden Claim to Divinity
– By questioning why the young man calls Him “good,” some scholars argue that Jesus is subtly affirming His divinity.
– Since only God is good, and Jesus is good, this implies His divine nature.
– The Catholic Church teaches Christ is the fullness of God’s goodness made visible (Col 1:19).
4. The Call to Go Beyond Legalism
– Jesus does not reject the commandments but challenges the young man to move beyond external obedience and enter into a radical relationship with God.
– Christianity is not just about following rules but about actively following Christ.
– This passage highlights the difference between legalism and authentic discipleship.
Reflection
Jesus’ words challenge us to reflect on how we define goodness. Do we believe that being “good” simply means following moral rules, or do we recognize that true goodness comes from God?
Many people today believe that “being a good person” is enough for salvation. However, Jesus teaches that righteousness involves not just obeying rules, but fully surrendering to God. Are we willing to follow Christ completely, or do we stop at minimal religious observance?
Holiness is more than morality – it is union with God, who alone is truly good.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You alone are the source of all goodness. Help us to recognize that true holiness comes not just from following rules but from surrendering to Your will. Strengthen us to obey Your commandments with love and devotion. Guide us to seek You, not merely as a teacher of goodness, but as the One who is Goodness itself. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 19:18 “He asked him, ‘Which ones?’ And Jesus replied, ‘You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness.’”
This verse is part of Jesus’ conversation with the rich young man who seeks to know what he must do to inherit eternal life. Jesus responds by listing several of the Ten Commandments, emphasizing the moral law as essential in following God. However, His response goes beyond mere rule-following, calling for a deeper commitment to discipleship.
Jewish and Historical Context
In first-century Judaism, adherence to the Mosaic Law was considered the key to righteousness. The young man’s question reflects a common Jewish practice – seeking clarification on the most essential commandments. While all Jews were expected to follow the entire Torah, Rabbinic debates often centered on which laws were the most important (Deut 6:4-5; Mic 6:6-8).
Jesus’ answer references the Second Tablet of the Decalogue (Ex 20:13-16; Deut 5:17-20), which focuses on human relationships. By emphasizing these commandments, Jesus underscores that holiness is not just about external observance but about how one treats others. This echoes Jewish teachings that love of neighbor is inseparable from love of God (Lev 19:18).
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. The Moral Law as a Path to Salvation
– Jesus does not dismiss the commandments but upholds them as a necessary guide to eternal life.
– The Catholic Church teaches that the moral law, as revealed in the Ten Commandments, remains binding for Christians (CCC 2053).
– Observing these commandments is not merely about external compliance but a genuine response to God’s love (Jn 14:15).
2. The Emphasis on Love of Neighbor
– Jesus selects commandments that deal with interpersonal relationships, showing that faith is not just personal but communal.
– The Catechism states that violating these laws harms both individuals and the broader human community (CCC 1955).
3. Moving Beyond a Legalistic Mindset
– The rich young man’s question reflects a checklist approach to righteousness.
– Jesus invites him to go beyond external obedience and embrace a life of true discipleship (Mt 19:21).
– This passage challenges believers to examine whether they follow God’s commandments out of love or obligation.
4. Applying the Commandments to Modern Life
The Catholic Church extends these commandments to contemporary moral issues:
– “You shall not kill” condemns not just murder but also abortion, euthanasia, and unjust anger (CCC 2268-2283).
– “You shall not commit adultery” includes chastity, marital fidelity, and opposition to pornography (CCC 2337-2350).
– “You shall not steal” applies to both material theft and economic injustice (CCC 2401-2409).
– “You shall not bear false witness” condemns lying, slander, and gossip (CCC 2475-2487).
These teachings remind us that the commandments are not outdated rules but timeless principles that guide our moral decisions.
Reflection
Jesus’ response challenges us: Are we following the commandments as a mere obligation, or are we striving for a deeper love of God and neighbor?
Many today, like the rich young man, look for a simplified checklist for righteousness. However, Jesus reminds us that salvation is not just about avoiding sin but about actively embracing love, truth, and righteousness.
– Do we prioritize love in our daily interactions?
– Are we willing to examine our lives and change where necessary?
– Do we follow the moral law only when it is convenient, or do we truly commit to God’s commandments?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have given us Your commandments as a guide to holiness and love. Help us to obey them not out of obligation, but out of a sincere desire to follow You. Strengthen us to love our neighbors with justice, truth, and compassion. Purify our hearts, so that we may seek not just moral perfection, but true union with You. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 19:19 “Honor your father and your mother; and you shall love your neighbor as yourself.”
This verse is part of Jesus’ response to the rich young man who asks what he must do to inherit eternal life. By referencing both the Fourth Commandment (Ex 20:12; Deut 5:16) and Leviticus 19:18, Jesus emphasizes that true righteousness is not just about following rules but about fostering relationships rooted in love and respect.
Jewish and Historical Context
Honoring Parents in Jewish Tradition
The command to honor one’s father and mother comes from the Decalogue (Ten Commandments) and was considered a sacred duty in Judaism. Parents were seen as co-creators with God, entrusted with raising their children in faith and wisdom. Honoring them meant showing respect, gratitude, and care, especially in their old age (Sir 3:1-16).
Loving One’s Neighbor in Jewish Ethics
“You shall love your neighbor as yourself” is one of the most fundamental teachings in the Torah, found in Leviticus 19:18. This commandment required fairness, kindness, and justice toward others.
By linking these two commands, Jesus affirms that love is at the heart of God’s law – starting within the family and extending outward to all people. He later reiterates this principle; teaching that love of God and love of neighbor are inseparable and the greatest commandments (Mt 22:37-40).
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. The Fourth Commandment: Honoring Parents
– The Catholic Church teaches that honoring parents is a lifelong duty, not just an obligation for children (CCC 2197-2200).
– This commandment extends to caring for aging parents, showing gratitude, and upholding family values.
– It also requires parents to raise their children in faith, love, and discipline (CCC 2221-2233).
2. Loving One’s Neighbor as an Act of Faith
– Jesus connects family love with universal love, teaching that holiness is not just about personal piety but relational righteousness.
– The Catechism affirms that loving our neighbor is inseparable from loving God (CCC 1878).
– This love must be active, expressed in charity, mercy, and justice (1 Jn 3:18).
3. Love in Action: More Than Legalism
– Jesus does not present commandments as a checklist for salvation but as a call to transform the heart.
– Love is not just an ideal but a practical way of life, requiring humility, forgiveness, and service.
4. The Church as a Spiritual Family
– The Church, as the Body of Christ, calls believers to act as one family (CCC 2212-2213).
– Honoring parents extends to respect elders, caring for the vulnerable, and building a just society.
Reflection
Jesus’ words challenge us to reflect on our relationships:
– Do we truly honor our parents – not just in words, but in actions of respect, care, and gratitude?
– Do we love our neighbors as ourselves, or do we limit our concern to those who are easy to love?
– Are we willing to practice forgiveness and reconciliation, even in difficult relationships?
In a world where family relationships are often strained and divisions abound, Jesus calls us to restore broken relationships, extend compassion, and foster genuine community.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have called us to honor our parents and love our neighbors as ourselves. Give us the grace to respect, care for, and cherish our families. Teach us to extend our love beyond those closest to us, embracing all people with justice and mercy. Help us live out Your commandments not as burdens, but as pathways to true joy and holiness. We ask this through Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 19:20 “The young man said to him, ‘All of these I have observed. What do I still lack?’”
This verse captures the rich young man’s response to Jesus’ instruction to keep the commandments. While he believes he has fulfilled the requirements of the Law, his question reveals a deeper longing – a recognition that something is still missing. His encounter with Jesus is not just about morality but about the true nature of discipleship and the path to eternal life.
Jewish and Historical Context
The Law as the Path to Righteousness
In first-century Judaism, strict observance of the Law (Torah) was considered the key to righteousness. Many Jews, particularly the Pharisees, believed that by meticulously following the 613 commandments, they could attain favor with God and eternal life.
The young man’s claim – “All of these I have observed” – reflects this common understanding. He is genuinely devout, yet his question exposes his spiritual unrest. Despite following the Law, he still feels unfulfilled.
A Longing for More
His words echo the sentiments of many who seek God: “I have done everything required, but I still feel incomplete.” His external obedience does not bring him the inner peace he desires. This longing is something only Jesus can fulfill.
This moment is crucial because Jesus will soon challenge him to move beyond legalism and embrace a radical, personal discipleship – a calling to detach from worldly securities and follow Christ completely.
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. Obedience to the Law is Good, but Not Sufficient
– The young man sincerely follows the commandments, which is commendable. However, Jesus reveals that true faith is more than just external rule-keeping (CCC 2053).
– The Catechism teaches that moral living must be rooted in a relationship with Christ, not just in following religious obligations (CCC 2074).
2. The Restlessness of the Human Heart
– His question, “What do I still lack?”, echoes St. Augustine’s words: “You have made us for Yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”
– Following commandments alone does not bring spiritual fulfillment; only a deep love for God and total self-giving can do that.
3. The Call to Something Greater
– Jesus does not reject the young man’s righteousness but invites him to go further – beyond mere obedience, toward a life of complete surrender to God (Mt 19:21).
– This reflects the Church’s teaching that holiness is not just about avoiding sin but about growing in virtue, faith, and love (CCC 2013).
4. Faith as a Journey, Not a Checklist
– The young man views goodness as something to be achieved, but Jesus shows that it is about being transformed by grace.
– Christianity is not merely a set of moral rules; it is a relationship with Christ.
Reflection
Many Christians today resemble the rich young man. They follow the rules, attend Mass, and do good works – yet still feel something is missing.
This passage invites us to ask:
– Am I just following religious obligations, or am I truly seeking a deeper relationship with Christ?
– Do I view my faith as a checklist, or do I desire transformation?
– What am I still holding onto that prevents me from fully surrendering to God?
God does not want just our obedience – He wants our hearts. The young man is about to face a choice: cling to his earthly security or embrace radical discipleship. We, too, must decide: Will we settle for doing the bare minimum, or will we give ourselves completely to Christ?
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have placed in our hearts a longing for something greater than this world can offer. Help us to recognize that true fulfillment comes not from simply following rules but from loving You with all our hearts. Teach us to surrender our attachments and seek You above all things. Give us the courage to follow wherever You lead. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 19:21 “Jesus said to him, ‘If you wish to be perfect, go, sell what you have and give to [the] poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’”
This verse is part of Jesus’ conversation with the rich young man, who has faithfully observed the commandments yet seeks something more. Jesus’ response shifts the focus from mere obedience to radical discipleship, inviting the young man – and all believers – to embrace a deeper commitment to God.
Jewish and Historical Context
1. Wealth as a Sign of God’s Blessing
In Jewish tradition, wealth was often seen as a sign of divine favor (Deut 28:1-14). The belief that prosperity was a reward for righteousness was widespread, making Jesus’ command to sell everything and give to the poor both shocking and challenging.
2. The Prophetic Call to Justice
The Old Testament prophets frequently called for care of the poor and warned against placing trust in riches (Isa 58:6-7, Am 5:11-15). Jesus’ words align with these teachings, emphasizing that true faith is demonstrated through selfless love and generosity.
3. Radical Discipleship Beyond the Law
Jewish discipleship typically involved following a rabbi while maintaining personal and family responsibilities. However, Jesus demands complete surrender – not just learning from Him, but abandoning personal security and wealth for the sake of the Kingdom. This was an invitation to an entirely new way of life.
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. The Call to Perfection
– Jesus begins with, “If you wish to be perfect.”
– Perfection (teleios in Greek) does not mean sinlessness but spiritual completeness – a heart fully directed toward God (CCC 2013-2015).
– This echoes Jesus’ earlier teaching: “Be perfect, just as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Mt 5:48).
– The invitation to sell possessions and follow Jesus is a call to higher holiness, not a rejection of wealth itself.
2. Detachment from Wealth and Trust in God
– Jesus does not condemn wealth, but He warns against attachment to riches that can hinder spiritual growth (CCC 2544-2547).
– The Catechism teaches that “detachment from riches is necessary for entering the Kingdom of heaven” (CCC 2556).
– True discipleship requires placing trust in God, not in material security (Mt 6:19-21).
3. Charity as a Sign of Faith
– Jesus commands the young man to give to the poor, reinforcing the Christian obligation to care for the needy (CCC 2443-2447).
– The early Church lived out this teaching – Acts 4:32-35 describes how believers shared possessions so that no one was in need.
– True generosity is an expression of love and faith, not just a good deed.
4. Following Christ Above All Else
– Jesus’ final invitation – “Come, follow me.” – is the heart of His message.
– It teaches that salvation is not just about obeying laws but about a relationship with Christ.
– Saints like St. Francis of Assisi lived out this call by renouncing their wealth and embracing a life of total dependence on God.
Reflection
Jesus’ words challenge us: What is keeping us from fully following Him?
For some, it may be wealth and materialism. For others, it may be pride, fear, or attachment to comfort. The rich young man was externally righteous but unwilling to surrender everything to Jesus.
Are we willing to let go of anything that hinders our relationship with God? True discipleship demands that we trust in God rather than in earthly security.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You have called us to follow Your Son with undivided hearts. Help us to detach from anything that keeps us from You. Teach us to trust in Your providence and to use our blessings for the good of others. Give us the courage to surrender everything to You, knowing that true treasure is found in heaven. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
Matthew 19:22 “When the young man heard this statement, he went away sad, for he had many possessions.”
This verse captures the rich young man’s response to Jesus’ radical invitation to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him (Mt 19:21). His sadness reveals the deep struggle between his attachment to wealth and his desire for eternal life. Ultimately, he chooses earthly security over discipleship, highlighting the challenge of fully surrendering to Christ.
Jewish and Historical Context
1. Wealth as a Sign of God’s Blessing
In first-century Jewish culture, wealth was often seen as a sign of God’s favor (Deut 28:1-14; Ps 112:1-3). The prevailing belief was that prosperity was a reward for righteousness. The young man likely assumed that his material success reflected God’s approval of his life.
2. The Challenge of Jesus’ Teaching
Jesus’ call to sell everything and give to the poor was radical in this context. While Judaism encouraged charity and generosity (tzedakah), it did not require complete renunciation of wealth. Jesus’ command challenged the cultural mindset and emphasized that true righteousness is not about possessions but about one’s relationship with God.
3. A Missed Opportunity for Discipleship
Discipleship in Jesus’ time meant following a rabbi and learning from him, but most disciples kept their personal lives and resources. Jesus, however, called for total commitment – not just intellectual learning, but a complete reorientation of life. The young man’s departure shows that he was not ready for this level of surrender.
Catholic Interpretation and Teachings
1. The Danger of Attachment to Wealth
– Wealth itself is not sinful, but attachment to it can be a major obstacle to spiritual growth.
– The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC 2547) states: “The Lord grieves over the rich, because they find their consolation in the abundance of goods.”
– Jesus warns in Matthew 6:24, “You cannot serve both God and mammon.”
2. The Cost of Discipleship
– The young man was morally upright but unwilling to make a radical commitment to Christ.
– True discipleship requires detachment from anything that keeps us from God (Luke 9:23).
– The Church teaches following Christ demands sacrifice, trust, and total devotion (CCC 2053).
3. The Call to Generosity and Social Justice
– Jesus’ command to give to the poor aligns with the Church’s teaching on social justice (CCC 2443-2446).
– The Catechism (CCC 2402) states: “The goods of creation are destined for the whole human race.”
– Christians are called to share their blessings with those in need, rather than hoard them (Luke 12:33-34).
4. The Tragedy of a Divided Heart
– The young man “went away sad,” showing that he wanted eternal life but was unwilling to fully surrender to Christ.
– His grief reveals an internal conflict—he recognized the truth of Jesus’ words but could not let go of his attachments.
– The Church teaches that true joy is found in surrendering to God’s will, not in earthly riches (CCC 1723).
Reflection
This passage challenges us: What are we unwilling to surrender to follow Jesus?
For some, it may be wealth or material possessions. For others, it could be status, pride, comfort, or sinful habits.
Like the rich young man, we may be doing everything right externally, yet still resist giving God full control over our lives.
– Are we clinging to things that keep us from wholehearted discipleship?
– Do we place our trust in earthly security rather than in God’s providence?
– Are we willing to choose joyful surrender over reluctant attachment?
True fulfillment does not come from possessions but from a heart fully surrendered to God.
Prayer
Heavenly Father, You call us to follow Your Son with undivided hearts. Help us to detach from anything that keeps us from You. Teach us to trust in Your providence rather than in worldly security. Fill us with the courage to give generously, love sacrificially, and follow You without hesitation. May we never walk away in sadness but embrace the joy of true discipleship. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.
CONCLUSION
The encounter between Jesus and the rich young man highlights the true cost of discipleship. While the young man sincerely sought eternal life, his attachment to wealth prevented him from fully committing to Christ. Jesus’ invitation was not just about giving up possessions but about trusting in God completely and reorienting his heart toward heavenly treasures. His sorrowful departure serves as a reminder that following Christ requires more than external righteousness – it demands a willingness to surrender everything that hinders our relationship with God.
This passage challenges us to examine our own lives. What are we unwilling to give up for the sake of Christ? True joy and fulfillment do not come from material wealth or human achievements but from placing our trust in God and embracing His call to radical love and generosity. In the end, what we gain by following Christ far outweighs anything we leave behind.
PRAYER
Heavenly Father, You call us to follow Your Son with undivided hearts. Give us the courage to let go of anything that keeps us from You. Teach us to seek eternal treasures rather than fleeting riches, to trust in Your providence, and to follow You without hesitation. May our love for You be greater than our attachments, and may we find true joy in walking the path of discipleship. We ask this through Jesus Christ, our Lord. Amen.