The Danger and Misery of Self-Deception
E. Cooper. Matthew 19:16-22 And, behold, one came and said to him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?… I. THE STATE AND CHARACTER OF THE PERSON WHO HERE ADDRESSES THE LORD. 1. We discover many circumstances which are calculated at first sight to impress us with very favourable sentiments of his state and character. He was young; engaging manners; amiable disposition. He exhibits a pleasing combination of many attractive qualities. 2. How inadequate his conception of the corruption of his own heart. What "good" thing can he do? 3. The defective views which he entertains of his own guilt. 4. He is not better acquainted with the secret bias of his affections than with his depravity and guilt. II. THE CONDUCT OF OUR LORD ON THIS OCCASION. 1. He does not promote the self-deception and thus augment the danger. He does not compliment the young man on his moral attainments. He acts the part of a true Physician and Friend; palliatives will only increase the disorder. 2. Compassionate regard. 3. Admirably suited to the peculiar circumstances of his case. Christ mentions the law as a corrective to his pride and self-sufficiency. 4. Eminently calculated to prove in the highest degree beneficial to his most important interests. (1) The misery of a state of self-deception. (2) That in removing the specious covering which self-deceit imposes, and in disclosing the sinner to himself, consists one important part of the duty of a minister. (3) Reflect on that disposition of heart which Christ requires of His people. Follow Me. (E. Cooper.) Parallel Verses KJV: And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life? WEB: Behold, one came to him and said, "Good teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?"