Matthew 19:18

"He said to him, “Why do you call me good? No one is good but one, that is, God. But if you want to enter into life, keep the commandments.”"

Key Reflection

In Matthew 19:18, Jesus challenges a man's self-assurance by affirming that only God is truly good, thus setting Himself apart from mere human righteousness. This response places significant emphasis on the moral and spiritual standards of God’s law, suggesting that perfect adherence to these commandments is required for eternal life—a concept that highlights both the gravity of the laws and the impossibility of achieving such perfection through human effort alone.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verses 18,19. In reply to the inquiry of the young man, Jesus directed him to the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and fifth, Ex 20:12-16 as containing the substance of the whole--as containing particularly what he intended to show him that he had not kept. See Barnes "Mt 5:21, See Barnes "Mt 5:27". Not steal. To steal is to take the property of another without his knowledge or consent. Bear false witness. Give testimony contrary to truth. This may be done in a court of justice, or by private or public slander. It means, to say things of another which are not true. Honour thy father, etc. That is, 1st. obey them, keep their commands, Co 3:20; Eph 6:1,2,3. 2nd.

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