Youcat commented through CCC – Question n. 348 – Part II.

YOUCAT Question n. 348 – Part II. “Teacher, what must I do to have eternal life?” (Mt 19:16)

(Youcat answer - repeated) Jesus says, “If you would enter life, keep the commandments” (Mt 19:17). Then he adds, and come, follow me” (Mt 19:21).

A deepening through CCC

(CCC 2075) "What good deed must I do, to have eternal life?" - "If you would enter into life, keep the commandments" Mt 19:16-17). (CCC 2054) Jesus acknowledged the Ten Commandments, but he also showed the power of the Spirit at work in their letter. He preached a "righteousness [which] exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees" (Mt 5:20) as well as that of the Gentiles (Cf. Mt 5:46-47). He unfolded all the demands of the Commandments. "You have heard that it was said to the men of old, 'You shall not kill.' …But I say to you that every one who is angry with his brother shall be liable to judgment" (Mt 5:21-22).   

 Reflecting and meditating 

(Youcat comment) Christianity is more than a correct life and keeping the commandments. Being a Christian is a living relationship to Jesus. A Christian unites himself deeply and personally with the Lord and with him sets out on the way that leads to true life.

(CCC Comment)

(CCC 2052) "Teacher, what good deed must I do, to have eternal life?" To the young man who asked this question, Jesus answers first by invoking the necessity to recognize God as the "One there is who is good," as the supreme Good and the source of all good. Then Jesus tells him: "If you would enter life, keep the commandments." And he cites for his questioner the precepts that concern love of neighbor: "You shall not kill, You shall not commit adultery, You shall not steal, You shall not bear false witness, Honor your father and mother." Finally Jesus sums up these commandments positively: "You shall love your neighbor as yourself" (Mt 19:16-19).     

(This question: “Teacher, what must I do to have eternal life?” (Mt 19:16) is continued)