Matthew 19:13-26: The Impossible

Jesus will not allow His disciples to keep the little children away, because those who enter the kingdom come to Jesus precisely in the dependence and need of such little children. In that context, the rich young man exemplifies the completely wrong approach to Jesus. When this man assumes that his own goodness will earn eternal life, Jesus uses the Law, attempting to lead the man to despair of his own goodness and look instead to the goodness of God. When the man rejects Jesus’ Word, Jesus teaches His disciples that riches easily become a stumbling block to entering God’s kingdom. Although it is impossible for man to enter salvation by his strength, God has done the impossible by saving sinners. 

Rev. Steve Andrews, pastor at St. Matthew Lutheran Church in Lee’s Summit, MO, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Matthew 19:13-26. 

To learn more about St. Matthew Lutheran, visit GraceFaithLove.org.

“The Reign of Heaven Stands Near” is a series on Sharper Iron that studies the Gospel according to St. Matthew. The first evangelist proclaims that God has fulfilled His Old Testament promises by sending Jesus to bring the reign of the heavens among us. As the Son of David, Jesus is the gracious King we need, and as the Son of Abraham, Jesus is the blessing to all the families of the earth. 

Sharper Iron, hosted by Rev. Timothy Appel, looks at the text of Holy Scripture both in its broad context and its narrow detail, all for the sake of proclaiming Christ crucified and risen for sinners. Two pastors engage with God's Word to sharpen not only their own faith and knowledge, but the faith and knowledge of all who listen. Pastor Appel serves at Faith Lutheran Church in Godfrey, IL. Learn more at flcgodfrey.org. Submit comments or questions to: listener@kfuo.org