In addition to Luke, Matthew 19:16–22 and Mark 10:17–22 also give us an account of the meeting between Jesus and this man. Apparently, this conversation is of great importance to us. Luke describes him as a high-ranking figure, a ruler, someone who carried weight and influence. This man poses an important question, What must I do to inherit eternal life?
This already reveals that he sees eternal life as a gift. A person can only partake of it when they receive it (see Luke 18:17). The kingdom of God has to be given to us.
He addresses Jesus with full respect. Therefore, Mark adds that he knelt before him
(Mark 10:17). The address, Good Teacher,
is also significant. He knows that he has come to the right place to ask vital questions. For him, Jesus is the right teacher.
18 Un chef interrogea Jésus, et dit: Bon maître, que dois-je faire pour hériter la vie éternelle?