Slideshow image

Jesus Knows the Heart 

And Jesus, looking at him, loved him

When we read the account of the rich man in Mark 10:17–31, we may initially think he is the ideal candidate to become a follower of Jesus. He kneels before Jesus, showing reverence, and asks a great question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” But what the rest of the story reveals is that eagerness does not always equate to a willingness to surrender and follow Jesus. Interest in Jesus does not necessarily mean someone is ready to repent and turn from their sin. The story of this man demonstrates exactly that. People often cling to their idols to provide the security and meaning they desperately crave. For this man, his wealth was ultimately his god. It was what he looked to for refuge and security and what commanded his ultimate allegiance.

Money is not the only thing people worship, although it is a common one. Some look to comfort, career, reputation, relationships, or even themselves as their ultimate source of satisfaction and meaning in life. What Jesus demonstrates in this passage is that faithful evangelism pays attention to what people treasure most. Even Jesus asks questions, such as “Why do you call me good?” that invite deeper reflection. Asking questions like “What do you hope for most in life?” or “What would you hate to lose?” can reveal a great deal about where someone has placed their hope and trust.

When we find ourselves in conversations about Jesus, we would do well to remember how he approached someone who clearly valued the things of this world more than becoming his follower. First, Jesus did not dilute the cost of becoming a disciple. We should never present a gospel that promises benefits while leaving out the cost of discipleship. Second, we must be content to let people walk away. Even though Jesus loved this man (v. 21), he did not compromise the call to follow him when the man refused. Someone rejecting the call to follow Jesus is not necessarily a failure on our part. Third, we must remember that salvation is impossible with man but possible with God. What freeing words these are! We do not need to rely on manipulation or coercion. We can simply speak the truth, confront people's idols with the gospel, point them to the promises of following Christ, warn them of the cost, and trust God to give the increase.

And in all of our evangelism efforts, we must remember that our evangelism is to be marked by the same love Jesus demonstrated toward this man. A love that cares enough to lovingly confront our idols, that  graciously invites, and faithfully point people to the only one who can save.