Charles Spurgeon Commentary Matthew 19:20

"The young man saith unto him, All these things have I observed: what lack I yet?" — Matthew 19:20 (ASV)

Perhaps he spoke the truth, as he understood the law. He had maintained an excellent moral character from his early boyhood. He felt that in act and deed he had kept all those commands without a fault of any consequence. He was no braggart, but could honestly claim to have led a commendable life. He was, no doubt, a very exemplary person and so amiable that Jesus looked on him very lovingly. We know some who are like him and may be described as touching the law, blameless.

But he was not all he thought himself to be. He did not love his neighbor as himself, as he would soon be made to see. What lack I yet? is an inquiry few would dare to put. He felt that if there was anything lacking in him, he was altogether ignorant as to what it could be. His self-esteem needed no increasing.