Thrice Right But Once Wrong
Introduction:
1. The rich young ruler had much to commend him:
a. He was interested in his soul's salvation.
b. He was good to his parents.
c. He was a good neighbor.
d. Was honest, truthful and chaste.
2. Let us note:
I. He Asked The Right Question: (V-17)
A. No more vitally important question confronts us.
B. Life's short day will soon end.
1. For some it may be a sudden and tragic end.
2. Illustrate: Plane crash-128 met sudden death in Grand Canyon.
C. Are we prepared for the great change ?
1. Are we concerned about our souls ?
2. Where will we spend eternity?
a. Only two places — heaven or hell.
3. Are we asking this question seriously?
II. He Asked Question Of Right Person.
A. He came to Jesus on the run.
B. Acknowledged Jesus as a good teacher — should have recognized Him as the divine Savior. V-18.
C. No one else has the answer.
III. He Received The Right Answer. (V-12)
A. He was trusting in his riches. V-24.
B. Jesus put him to supreme test. V-21.
1. Did he consider the possession of riches more important than gaining eternal life?
C. Example of earl Christians:
1. Sold their possessions. Acts 2:45; 4:34-35
2. Robbed of possessions. Heb. 10:34
IV. He Made The Wrong Decision.
A. By allowing love for possessions to sway his decision.
B. What about our decision?
1. Many allow pleasures of sin to sway.
2. Others allow opinions of so-called friends to sway.
3. Popularity sways decision of many.
C. What is your decision?
1. Do you believe Jesus is Son of God ?
2. Are you ready to turn away from sin in true repentance?
3. Are you ready to confess your faith publicly?
D. Are you willing to obey him in baptism?
Conclusion:
1. The terrible result of the wrong decision.
2. Wrong here all else is of no avail.