March 3, 2012 (Numbers 32-33; Mark 10)
From the Life Journal of Adam Proux:
Scripture: “At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.” Mark 10:22 NLT
Observation: A man came running up to Jesus and ask Him, “Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” Jesus answered him by naming some of the Ten Commandments, you must not murder, you must not commit adultery, you must not steal, you must not testify falsely, you must not cheat anyone, and honor your mother and father. The man said, “I’ve obeyed all these commandments since I was young.” Jesus looking at the man, felt genuine love for him and said, “There is still one thing you haven’t done, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come and follow me.” At this the man’s face fell, and he went away sad, for he had many possessions.
Application: The answer Jesus gave to the man becomes very interesting when you compare it to the answer such a person would receive today. According to some reports I hear, people go to church asking this same question today. What must I do to inherit eternal life? But the answer they are given is much different than the answer Christ gave. Now days we say you don’t have to worry with any of those silly commandments, they were the Law, but we are under grace. Just repeat this simple sinners prayer and you are good to go. Salvation is yours and no one can ever take it away and you can never lose it. It cost you nothing and nothing but repeating the prayer is required of you. However, some pastors do still encourage you to sell your possessions, but you should give the money to the church, they will distribute it to the poor for you. Wow, sounds like Jesus didn’t know what He was talking about! But I think He did.
Prayer: Dear Lord, thank You for this day. Thank You for Jesus! He was not afraid to tell people what they really needed to hear. I pray for those who have gone astray from preaching Your gospel, help us to see the error of our ways. Open our eyes to see clearly and understand completely what Your message is. Thank You for Your mercy and grace that provide and protect me daily! In Jesus name, Amen!