September 26. The Rich Young Ruler
J.R. Miller teaches that true eternal life requires more than outward righteousness and riches; it demands a heartfelt surrender to Christ above all else.
In this sermon, J.R. Miller explores the story of the rich young ruler who approaches Jesus with a profound question about eternal life. Miller highlights the young man's outward righteousness and social status but points to the deeper spiritual hunger that drives him to Christ. The sermon challenges listeners to examine their own hearts and the sincerity of their pursuit of eternal life through wholehearted devotion to Jesus.
Text
"As Jesus started on his way, a man ran up to him and fell on his knees before him. "Good teacher," he asked, "what must I do to inherit eternal life?" Mark 10:17
This was a young man, with all his abilities fresh and full. He was rich, with all the honor, ease, distinction, and influence that riches give. He was a man of good reputation among his fellows; for he was a ruler of the synagogue. His character was above reproach; for he had scrupulously kept all the commandments. He was a lovable man, with many fine qualities, attractive and winning; for Jesus loved him when he saw him. Yet he was not satisfied. His heart-hunger was also very strong, driving him irresistibly in all haste to Christ.
There never was a more important question asked, than what he put to Jesus. Eternal life is the most glorious prize in the universe to be gained. It embraces all the blessings of salvation in this world, and then a place in the family of God forever. It is no wonder that this young man ran to ask Christ this question. The wonder is that so few people ever do run to make the same inquiry.
Men run to seek earth\
Sermon Outline
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I. The Encounter with the Rich Young Ruler
- A man runs to Jesus with a pressing question about eternal life
- His outward life is blameless and respected
- His heart is restless and seeking deeper fulfillment
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II. The Importance of the Question
- Eternal life is the greatest prize anyone can seek
- It includes blessings now and eternal fellowship with God
- Few people pursue this question with urgency
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III. The Challenge of True Discipleship
- Righteousness and riches alone do not secure eternal life
- A personal surrender to Christ is necessary
- Heart-hunger must drive one irresistibly to Jesus
Key Quotes
“There never was a more important question asked, than what he put to Jesus.” — J.R. Miller
“Eternal life is the most glorious prize in the universe to be gained.” — J.R. Miller
“His heart-hunger was also very strong, driving him irresistibly in all haste to Christ.” — J.R. Miller
Application Points
- Examine your heart to ensure your faith is more than outward appearances.
- Pursue a personal and urgent relationship with Christ above all else.
- Recognize that eternal life is a priceless gift that requires wholehearted commitment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who was the rich young ruler?
He was a young, wealthy man who held a respected position as a synagogue ruler and had kept the commandments carefully.
What question did the rich young ruler ask Jesus?
He asked, 'What must I do to inherit eternal life?'
Why is eternal life considered the greatest prize?
Because it includes all blessings of salvation in this life and eternal fellowship with God.
What was lacking in the rich young ruler's life despite his outward righteousness?
He lacked a full heart surrender to Christ and was not satisfied spiritually.
What does this sermon encourage listeners to do?
To urgently seek Christ with a sincere heart and not rely on external achievements for salvation.