King James Version

What Does Mark 10:17 Mean?

“And when he was gone forth into the way , there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?”

Context

Verily I say unto you, Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein .

And he took them up in his arms, put his hands upon them, and blessed them.

And when he was gone forth into the way , there came one running, and kneeled to him, and asked him, Good Master, what shall I do that I may inherit eternal life?

And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God.

Thou knowest the commandments, Do not commit adultery, Do not kill, Do not steal, Do not bear false witness, Defraud not, Honour thy father and mother.

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Topics in This Verse

Eternal Life

Commentary

Ellicott’s Commentary for English Readers

(17-27) **And when he was gone forth.**—Better, *as He was going forth.* (See Notes on Matthew 19:16-26.) **Running, and kneeled to him.**—Another of St. Mark’s vividly descriptive touches. The adjective “good,” which is wanting in the better MSS. of St. Matthew, is the true reading here. St. Mark and St. Luke give the word “inherit,” instead of St. Matthew’s “have,” or “possess.”

Charles John Ellicott (1819–1905). Public Domain.

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 10:17 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.