Luke 18:22 Meaning and Explanation
“Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →Jesus names the one thing lacking: sell all, give to the poor, receive treasure in heaven — and come, follow me.
What Does Luke 18:22 Mean?
Jesus answers the man's question with surgical precision. The prescription is fitted to this one patient: his wealth holds the throne of his heart, so Jesus asks for all of it — not a donation but a transfer of treasure, earth for heaven. Then comes the heart of the answer, the words once spoken to fishermen by their nets: 'come, follow me.'
This is not a universal command that every disciple be penniless; it is the universal demand that nothing be loved above Christ, pressed on this man at his exact point of resistance. The eternal life he asked about is not one more attainment to add to his list. It is found in following Jesus — with both hands finally free.
Luke 18:22 in the Original Language
leipo (λείπω), 'lack' -- to be lacking, to fall short of what is needed.
Frequently Asked Questions About Luke 18:22
What does Luke 18:22 mean?
Jesus names the one thing lacking: sell all, give to the poor, receive treasure in heaven — and come, follow me.