The Goodness Fallacy: Why Being a Good Person Won't Get You into Heaven.

Discover the misconception of earning salvation through personal goodness. Learn why being a good person is not enough to get into heaven. Find true righteousness in Jesus Christ.

The Misconception of Being a Good Person and Getting into Heaven

When it comes to the question of what it takes to get into heaven, many people believe that being a good person is the key. This belief is prevalent across various religions and philosophical beliefs. Whether it's following the Ten Commandments, the precepts of the Quran, or the Golden Rule, the common thread is the idea that being good will lead to eternal life. However, this notion is not what Christianity teaches. Let's explore Matthew 19:16–26 to gain a deeper understanding of this misconception.

The Rich Young Ruler and His Question

In this story, a rich young ruler approaches Jesus with a question: "What good deed must I do to have eternal life?" This question reflects his recognition that despite his efforts to be a good person, something is still lacking. However, his perspective is rooted in the concept of earning salvation through good deeds, which Jesus challenges throughout the conversation.

Jesus' Response and the True Meaning of Goodness

In response to the young ruler's question, Jesus poses a counter-question: "Why do you ask me about what is good?" Jesus aims to reveal that no one is inherently good except God Himself. He exposes the young ruler's flawed assumption that a good person can earn their way into heaven. Jesus then advises him to keep the commandments, not as a means to achieve righteousness through works, but as a way to highlight the young ruler's shallow understanding of the Law and human ability.

The Young Ruler's Self-Righteousness

The young ruler proudly asserts that he has kept all the commandments since his youth, emphasizing his belief in his own goodness. However, his response is ironic, as it violates the commandment regarding false witness. Jesus exposes the young ruler's inflated self-perception and lack of true understanding. This encounter reveals that even though the young ruler may have strived to keep the commandments, he falls short of true righteousness. He recognizes that he is still lacking something, prompting him to ask Jesus, "What do I still lack?"

The True Obstacle: Attachment to Wealth

Jesus identifies the young ruler's true obstacle to righteousness—his attachment to wealth. He challenges the young ruler to sell all his possessions and follow Him. By doing so, Jesus uncovers the young ruler's idolatry of wealth and his failure to prioritize God above all else. Sadly, the young ruler chooses his riches over eternal life and walks away from Jesus.

The Disciples' Shock and Jesus' Teachings

Jesus uses this encounter as a teaching moment for His disciples. He shares a profound statement: "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." This shocks the disciples, as they held the common belief that wealth was a sign of God's favor. Jesus explains that riches often lead to self-sufficiency, hindering one's dependence on God. The disciples respond with a crucial question: "Who then can be saved?" Jesus answers by emphasizing that salvation is impossible for humans alone, but with God, all things are possible.

The Reality: No One Is Good Enough

Who can be saved? The answer, if dependent on human goodness alone, is no one. The Bible clearly states that all have sinned and fallen short of God's glory (Romans 3:23). The consequence of our sin is death (Romans 6:23a). However, God did not wait for us to become good enough. In our sinful state, Christ died for the unrighteous (Romans 5:8). Salvation is not earned through our own goodness but through Jesus' perfect righteousness.

The Gift of Salvation through Faith in Christ

Salvation is a precious gift provided by Jesus Christ. It is unearned and received through faith. By confessing with our mouths that Jesus is Lord and believing in our hearts that God raised Him from the dead, we can be saved (Romans 10:9). The gospel message emphasizes that no one can ever be good enough to earn their way into heaven. We must acknowledge our status as sinners, repent of our sins, and place our faith and trust in Jesus Christ. It is through Christ alone, the only truly good person, that we can receive His righteousness and gain access to eternal life (Romans 1:17).

Conclusion

In summary, the misconception that being a good person is enough to secure a place in heaven is not aligned with the teachings of Christianity. Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler exposes the fallacy of relying on personal goodness to earn salvation. No one is truly good except God Himself, and no one can fulfill the Law perfectly. Salvation is a gift that cannot be earned through works, but through faith in Jesus Christ. Our righteousness comes from Him alone. We must humbly recognize our need for a Savior and place our trust in the One who is truly good.