“If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.”
- 6-4 BC – 30 or 33 AD
- From Judea (present-day Israel/Palestine)
- Religious leader and evangelist
- Founder of Christianity, who had a major impact on religions and cultures around the world
Quote
“If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven.”
Explanation
This quote from Jesus challenges individuals to prioritize spiritual wealth over material possessions. When he says, “If you want to be perfect,” Jesus presents the idea of perfection not as an external or superficial achievement, but as a spiritual state of alignment with God’s will. The instruction to “sell your possessions and give to the poor” emphasizes the importance of detaching from earthly goods and using one’s resources to help those in need. The promise of “treasure in heaven” indicates that acts of selflessness and generosity are rewarded in the afterlife, where true and lasting treasures are found, beyond the fleeting nature of material wealth.
Historically, this statement comes from a conversation with a rich young man who seeks eternal life. Despite his adherence to the commandments, he is reluctant to part with his wealth, and Jesus uses this moment to illustrate that true discipleship requires a willingness to let go of material comforts. This teaching highlights the radical nature of Jesus’ message, which calls for a transformation in how people view wealth and possessions—moving away from attachment to them and towards using them for greater good.
In modern contexts, this quote speaks directly to issues of consumerism and the pursuit of wealth. It challenges individuals in today’s society, where materialism is often glorified, to reflect on their priorities. For instance, someone who constantly strives for more possessions or financial gain may be urged by this teaching to reconsider their values, focusing instead on acts of charity, generosity, and service to others. By embracing this perspective, individuals can cultivate spiritual richness and a deeper sense of purpose, knowing that such acts of kindness have eternal significance beyond the temporary satisfaction of material wealth.
