Luke 18:22
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Luke 18:22
22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
Chapter Context
Luke 18 is a historical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of worship, love, righteousness. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-85 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christians needed to understand their place in the Roman world.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-43: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it offers practical wisdom for godly living in a fallen world. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Luke and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Luke 18:22
22 Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.
Analysis
Jesus tells the rich ruler: 'Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.' The ruler claimed to have kept all commandments (v. 21), but Jesus exposed the one thing missing—his wealth was his god. The command 'sell all' addresses this specific idol. 'Distribute unto the poor' demonstrates genuine concern for others versus hoarding. 'Treasure in heaven' contrasts earthly treasure—secure, eternal, far better. The climactic command 'come, follow me' reveals what Jesus truly desires—disciples, not merely moral people. The man 'was very sorrowful: for he was very rich' (v. 23), choosing wealth over Christ.
Historical Context
Rich rulers rarely sought religious teachers, making this encounter unusual. His question 'what shall I do to inherit eternal life?' (v. 18) revealed works-based theology—'do' to 'inherit.' Jesus directed him to commandments, which he claimed to have kept. Yet something was missing—his wealth, which violated the first commandment (no gods before God) and tenth commandment (no coveting). Jesus' command to sell all was surgical strike at his specific idol. Not all believers must sell everything, but all must prioritize Christ above possessions. The man's sorrow showed he loved wealth more than eternal life—tragic choice revealing money's enslaving power.
Reflection
- Was Jesus' command to sell all universal requirement or specific diagnosis of this man's particular idol?
- What does the ruler's sorrowful departure teach about the enslaving power of wealth and difficulty of entering God's kingdom when trusting in riches?
Word Studies
- Heaven: οὐρανός (Ouranos) G3772 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- References Jesus: Matthew 19:21
- Parallel theme: Luke 9:23, 10:42, 12:33, 16:9, Psalms 27:4, Philippians 3:13