Translations
Modern
“Why do you call Me good?” Jesus replied. “No one is good except God alone.
Traditional
And Jesus said unto him, Why callest thou me good? none is good, save one, that is, God.
Literal
But Jesus said to him, “Why do you call Me good? No one is good except One—God.
Latin
Dixit autem ei Jesus: Quid me dicis bonum? nemo bonus nisi solus Deus.
Original
Greek
English
“Why do you call Me good?” Jesus replied. “No one is good except God alone.
Notes
Why do you call Me good?: The man called Jesus good as a compliment, but only God is truly good. Jesus challenged the man's understanding of goodness. True goodness requires moral perfection.
The story of the rich religious leader warns against trusting in riches rather than pledging complete allegiance to God.
Theme notes and profiles
Events
- Jesus Teaches in Pereac. AD 30
Parallels
People
Jesus: The Son of God and Savior of the world
Glossary
Topics
Being a Good Christian God: Goodness of God: Holiness of Jesus, the Christ: Receives the Rich Young Ruler Who Asks What he Shall do to Inherit Eternal Life Riches: General Scriptures Concerning Salvation: Conditions of Self-Righteousness: General Scriptures Concerning Young Men: General Scriptures Concerning Young Men: Religious Young Men: The Rich Young Man