Final answer:
The passage about the rich young ruler exemplifies the expectation of personal sacrifice in discipleship, where followers of Jesus must prioritize spiritual over material wealth and be ready to overcome societal challenges.
Step-by-step explanation:
The passage about the rich young ruler, as mentioned in the New Testament, illustrates the response of discipleship by presenting a clear picture of the challenges and expectations of following Jesus. One key message derived from these teachings is that discipleship requires a willingness to prioritize spiritual wealth over material wealth, as exemplified by Jesus's statement, "It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God." This reflects the need for personal sacrifice and detachment from worldly possessions to truly commit to the path of a disciple.
The story of Jesus calling Levi to be his disciple underscores this commitment. Levi, a tax collector, not only abandons his post to follow Jesus but also shares a meal with him alongside other tax collectors and sinners, thus showing his complete acceptance of Jesus's message and willingness to be transformed by it. The reaction of the Pharisees, who question Jesus's company, contrasts with Levi's and reflects the Pharisees' lack of understanding of Jesus's inclusive approach to discipleship.
In addressing wealth and discipleship, Jesus's teachings and actions repeatedly indicate that being his follower means going beyond societal norms, and possibly facing criticism, in order to reach a higher spiritual calling. This is further emphasized in the illustration of the tax collector, who was confronted by Jesus and the Disciples regarding temple taxes. Here, a miracle provides the required tax money, and the disciples learn that their faith and Jesus's teachings will provide for their needs in unexpected ways.
Through these biblical examples, it is suggested that a disciple must be ready to confront and overcome material and societal challenges, and this message is as relevant today as it was in ancient times. Discipleship may call for enduring hardship and setting a moral example for others, mirroring the teachings of both biblical figures and historical rulers who led by example.