Rich Young Ruler
The Rich Young Ruler is the morally serious man who walked away from Jesus, showing how love of possessions can keep a person from wholehearted discipleship.
Male
New Testament
Gospel Era
Beginner
Why Study This Person?
A wealthy young man approached Jesus with a question about eternal life, as recorded in the Gospels (Matthew 19; Mark 10; Luke 18). Though outwardly obedient to the law, he struggled when Jesus challenged him to give up his possessions and follow Him. His response revealed where his true priorities lay. This encounter provides a study in wealth, attachment, and the cost of fully committing to the way of Christ.
Trace the Life of
Rich Young Ruler
in Scripture
First Appearance
Matthew 19:16
Key Passage
Matthew 19:21-22
Jesus tells the rich young ruler to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him. The man leaves sorrowfully because he is unwilling to part with his wealth.
Christ Connection
The rich young ruler encounters Jesus and learns that true life requires surrender and trust in Christ rather than reliance on wealth.
Final Appearance
Luke 18:23
Mark 10:17-22; Luke 18:18-23; Matthew 19:23-24
The story appears in all three Synoptic Gospels and illustrates the challenge wealth can pose to wholehearted devotion to God. Jesus uses the encounter to teach about the difficulty of entering the kingdom when possessions become a person's greatest priority.
Other Places in Scripture That Mention
Rich Young Ruler
How to Study
This Person
As you read the passages connected to this person, look for patterns in how they respond to God and how their life fits into the larger story of Scripture.
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What does this person reveal about faith or unbelief?
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How does he or she respond to God’s word or God’s actions?
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What strengths or weaknesses become visible in this person's life?
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What relationships influence this person's story?
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How does he or she fit into the larger biblical storyline?
Key Themes from the Life of
Rich Young Ruler
Sacrifice and Rebellion
