Many christians probably struggle a little or fill up with anxiety when knowledge is asked of them about the Bible. Even on topics of the most well known elements or at least most heard of from the Bible. For instance, having the ability to name the ten commandments or the twelve disciples. (You’re probably going through one of those list right now.) It’s interesting how we can be pretty quick and good at pointing out good and strong ability of others to keep the ten commandments or exude leadership like the Jesus or the twelve apostles . But there always seems to be one that we struggle with, more than likely because we don’t quite fully understand it.

Mark 10:17-27

Jesus has an interaction with a young rich man. The young man ask a great question towards Jesus: what must I do to enter into heaven? For us this is the softball of all questions and all christians should be able to answer this question boldly and clearly. I would also argue that none of us would answer this questions like Jesus did either, but the response of Jesus leads to the same answer we would give.

Jesus told him to sell all of his things and come and follow Him, because the one commandment he probably struggled with was coveting. This is the same sin we all probably struggle to see coming. This commandment is very unique because it’s the only commandment of the ten that deals with the inward focus. All the others deal with outward actions towards God or other people around us, coveting is squarely on us and leads us away from God being the sole creator and sustainer of our life.

The rich young man allowed his vision of what he saw and what others had to motivate the use of his life and wealth. Had he followed the last of the ten commandments he would of focused his effort and life on serving God and not acquiring all the things Jesus ask him to sell so that his wealth could be used to serve other for God’s glory and not just his own comfort.