When Jesus saw that he answered wisely, He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” And no one dared to question Him anymore.
Jesus praises the scribe’s wise answer, but also shows that he still must enter the kingdom of God. The words “You are not far” are both encouragement and warning. Understanding the truth brings a person near to the kingdom, but entering the kingdom requires faith in Christ and renewal of heart. Many can be near through knowledge, moral appreciation, and a correct confession, yet still remain outside if they do not humble themselves before the Savior. No one dared to question Him anymore, because Christ’s wisdom exposed their cunning and showed the superiority of the truth.