KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS

Matthew 19:16-22

I. We cannot just say the right things (vv. 16, 17).

A. The rich young ruler was correct in what He called Jesus.

B. He asked the right question.

C. However, there is more to keeping the commandments

than just saying the right things (see Matthew 7:21).

II. We cannot obey just a little (v. 16).

A. He asked about the “good thing” (singular).

B. Perhaps he just wanted to add a good behavior to his life

without subtracting the existing bad behaviors.

C. How many Christians try to weave a bit of Christianity

into a life that is mostly self-serving?

III. We cannot just rest on our record (v. 20).

A. He boasted a good record of obedience.

B. I believe he truthfully stated his actions or else Jesus

would have challenged his claim.

C. However, there is much more to keeping the

commandments than just having a good history in certain

areas.

D. God requires total surrender.

IV. We cannot give just some of what we have.

A. Jesus’ charge fell on deaf ears because the rich young ruler

“had great possessions” (v. 22).

B. Don’t you think this man would have been willing to give

just some of what he had?

C. How many are willing to give a portion of themselves to

the Lord instead of making the full sacrifice required by

the Redeemer?

June 1, 2003 (p.m.)