One of the most curious things Jesus says about entrance into the Kingdom of God is that it’s impossible for the rich.
He says bluntly, “It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God…With man it is impossible…” -Mark 10:25, 27
Like most of the truths in the Bible, this one has multiple layers, many facets, different ways to understand it.
Here’s ONE to consider…
Your DYNAMIC Role: “Rich and Poor” from Phillip Gonzales on Vimeo.
If you can, take a few minutes and read through the following Scripture passages. Think about them. What would they have meant to the first hearers, and what do they mean for us today?
……….
Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven.
–Matthew 5:3
Blessed are you who are poor, for yours is the KINGDOM of God.
–Luke 6:20
Truly, I say to you, only with difficulty will a rich person enter the kingdom of heaven.
Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the kingdom of God.
When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?”
But Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
– Matthew 19:23-26
And Jesus looked around and said to his disciples, “How difficult it will be for those who have wealth to enter the KINGDOM of God!” And the disciples were amazed at his words.
But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how difficult it is to enter the KINGDOM of God! It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the KINGDOM of God.”
And they were exceedingly astonished, and said to him, “Then who can be saved?”
Jesus looked at them and said, “With man it is impossible, but not with God. For all things are possible with God.”
– Mark 10:23-25
“Fear not, little flock, for it is your Father’s good pleasure to give you the kingdom. Sell your possessions, and give to the needy. Provide yourselves with moneybags that do not grow old, with a treasure in the heavens that does not fail, where no thief approaches & no moth destroys. For where your treasure is, there will your heart be also. ”
– Luke 12:32-34