But he said, ‘I have followed all these since my youth.’
Luke 18:21
It would be easy to jump to the conclusion that this guy is overly self-righteous. But on the face of it, this may have been an honest answer. This man was very likely innocent of theft, adultery, and murder. If bearing false witness is specifically viewed as not lying about what someone else did, then he may have been ok on that score as well. And for the honor of his parents he very likely had done all that he had been taught was expected of him.
So was he good enough to go to heaven on the basis of keeping the law? No. The law sheds light on the guilt of ever person. Though this man may have been ‘pretty good’ all things considered, he was not sinless. This is why Jesus moves him on to the next step following the claim to have kept the law.
Heavenly Father, You alone are worthy of praise for Holiness. Your are thrice Holy. Our petty attempts to be good are not of much value, but they can evidence our faith. We will live in Your way because we believe Christ is Your path to righteousness for us. Your glorious plan is our joy! Thank You! In the Name of the Lord Jesus Christ I pray and praise You, Amen.