Little Children and a Rich Ruler

Luke 18:15-30

Key Verse 22

“When Jesus heard this, he said to him, ‘You still lack one thing. Sell everything you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.’”

1. Read verses 15-17. Why did people bring their babies to Jesus? Why might the disciples have rebuked the parents? Why did Jesus have the little children come to him? (16) How can we receive the kingdom of God like a little child? (17)

2. Read verses 18-21. What did a certain ruler inquire of Jesus? What does this reveal about him? What can we learn from Jesus’ answer? (19) Why might Jesus have mentioned four commandments? (20) What does this man’s reply show about him? (21)

3. Read verses 22-23. What was the one thing this man lacked? (22) Why did Jesus tell him to sell everything and give to the poor? How did the young man respond and why?

4. Read verses 24-30. What did Jesus say about the rich young man? (24-25) Why is so hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven? What question did the disciples’ then ask? (26) What can we learn from Jesus’ answer? (27) What was Peter’s response? (28) What is Jesus’ promise to those who seek the kingdom of God first? (29-30)

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