Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Matthew 19:20

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

Jesus lists the sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, and fifth commandments of Ex 20, in that order, and then adds, “Love your neighbor as yourself” (Leviticus 19:18). The man’s impulsive reply is reflected by Paul on a certain understanding of the law; but the man’s further words, “What do I still lack?” show his uncertainty and lack of assurance of ever being good enough for salvation, and they demonstrate his notion that certain “good works” are over and above the law.