A man asked Jesus, 'Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?' (Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ, τί ποιήσω ἵνα ζωὴν αἰώνιον κληρονομήσω;). The address 'Good Master' (Didaskale agathe, Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ) prompts Jesus' response about goodness (v. 18). The question 'what shall I do' reveals works-righteousness assumption—earning eternal life through personal achievement. The verb 'inherit' (klēronomēsō, κληρονομήσω) oddly pairs with 'do'—inheritance is received, not earned. This theological confusion prompts Jesus' corrective teaching: salvation comes through God's grace, not human merit (vv. 21-27). The man's question represents humanity's universal error—attempting to achieve righteousness through works rather than receiving it by faith (Romans 3:20-28; Ephesians 2:8-9).
Historical Context
First-century Judaism emphasized Torah obedience as path to righteousness, though also recognizing God's grace and covenant mercy. Rabbinic teaching included debates about which commandments were weightiest and how much obedience sufficed. The Pharisaic emphasis on meticulous law-keeping created culture of performance-based righteousness. Jesus consistently challenged this (Mark 2:17; 7:6-13; Luke 18:9-14). Paul, former Pharisee, articulated gospel correction: righteousness comes through faith in Christ, not works of law (Romans 3:21-4:8; Galatians 2:15-21; Philippians 3:7-9). The rich man's question demonstrates sincere spiritual seeking but fundamental misunderstanding—he sought to 'do' what must be 'received' as gift.
Questions for Reflection
How does the rich man's question 'what shall I do?' reveal the universal human tendency toward works-righteousness?
What does the contradiction between 'do' and 'inherit' teach about salvation as gift rather than achievement?
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Analysis & Commentary
A man asked Jesus, 'Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?' (Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ, τί ποιήσω ἵνα ζωὴν αἰώνιον κληρονομήσω;). The address 'Good Master' (Didaskale agathe, Διδάσκαλε ἀγαθέ) prompts Jesus' response about goodness (v. 18). The question 'what shall I do' reveals works-righteousness assumption—earning eternal life through personal achievement. The verb 'inherit' (klēronomēsō, κληρονομήσω) oddly pairs with 'do'—inheritance is received, not earned. This theological confusion prompts Jesus' corrective teaching: salvation comes through God's grace, not human merit (vv. 21-27). The man's question represents humanity's universal error—attempting to achieve righteousness through works rather than receiving it by faith (Romans 3:20-28; Ephesians 2:8-9).