In this lecture, His Holiness Pope Shenouda III explains the meaning of Jesus’ words to the rich young man:
“Why do you call Me good? No one is good but One, that is, God.” (Matthew 19:16–17)
The Pope emphasizes that Jesus did not deny His goodness or divinity, but used the question to test the young man’s faith and to correct the casual use of sacred titles.

Routine Words vs. True Faith:
Jesus wanted to see whether the man called Him “Good Teacher” merely as a polite expression, or whether he truly believed that Jesus is the One Good — God Himself.
If it was just a common greeting, Christ corrected him. But if it came from faith, it was an implicit recognition of His divinity.

Christ Did Not Deny His Goodness:
Jesus never said, “I am not good.” Rather, He asked, “Why do you call Me good?” — meaning, Do you understand whom you are addressing?
If the man truly believed Jesus to be divine, his words were right. For absolute goodness belongs to God alone — and Christ shares that divine nature.

Biblical Proofs of Christ’s Holiness:
The Pope points to several verses affirming Christ’s perfect holiness:

• “I am the Good Shepherd.” (John 10:11)

• “Which of you convicts Me of sin?” (John 8:46)

• “That Holy One who is to be born will be called the Son of God.” (Luke 1:35)
  These clearly show that Jesus was sinless, holy, and perfectly good.

Faith Message:
Thus, Jesus’ question was not a denial but a call to reflection and faith.
He revealed that true goodness belongs to God, and that He Himself is that divine Good One — the incarnate Son of God, perfect in holiness and love.

“For better translation support, please contact the center.”