Read: Matthew 19:16-26
Go, sell your possessions and give to the poor. (v. 21 NIV)
Countless readers of the story of the rich young ruler have asked, “Does God call all would-be disciples to sell whatever they own and give it away?” If so, only a few priestly or monastic orders have ever obeyed his summons. One reply is that this is the only person in the whole Bible of whom God makes so sweeping a command.
Luke’s gospel contains two unique passages shortly after its parallel account of Jesus and the ruler (18:18-30) that provide very different models. Zacchaeus (19:1-10) gives away only half (and restores fourfold those he has defrauded), while the parable of the pounds (vv. 11-27) commends successful investment. The book of Acts contains three different models for helping the poor: a common treasury (chaps. 2, 4, 5); the first “deacons’ fund” (chap. 6), and a special offering (chap. 11). What is consistent is helping the poor, especially nearby fellow believers.
These and other New Testament teachings show that generosity and sacrifice, not some fixed percentage, is what God requires of believers in Christ. My wife and I have tried to live by that, regularly giving well over 10 percent to our church and to the Lord’s work, especially caring for the poor. But I remain haunted by the remarks of one commentator who said that if a person is too quickly relieved that God doesn’t command everyone to give up all they own, that may be the very person of whom he would make such a demand!
As you pray, ask God to show you what he wants you to do with all your possessions.
Craig L. Blomberg is the Distinguished Professor Emeritus of New Testament at Denver Seminary. He has written or edited more than 30 books, including a recently revised and expanded commentary on Matthew. He teaches regularly in churches, including his home church of Centennial Covenant in Littleton, CO. He and his wife Fran have two daughters and three grandchildren.
