Mark 10:23 Commentary - Dr Peter Masters

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Mark 10:23

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There is a lesson in what has happened for the disciples. They have seen the man approach, heard his earnest question, noted the test that Christ has set him, and watched him walk away. Was that test necessary? Could he not have become a disciple without it? No, Christ will only have true disciples. There was an impediment in his heart that stopped him becoming a disciple. It could not be seen by the disciples. Even the rich young ruler himself was not properly aware of it, or he would not have come with such a strong indication that he would meet any condition laid on him. He would not have exposed himself to the shame of having to walk away, having failed Christ’s test. If only, he had detected his own reluctance, and immediately asked the Lord for help: ‘Lord, I believe; help thou mine unbelief’; help me to do as you have said; help me to understand how what you have to give is worth much more than anything I possess in this world.’‘And Jesus looked round about, and saith unto his disciples, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!’ How difficult it is! It is an amazing statement. The disciples were astonished. Jesus’ answer takes us back to verse 15: ‘Whosoever shall not receive the kingdom of God as a little child, he shall not enter therein.’

Application

Is it impossible for the rich to be saved? Not impossible, for God can deliver him from needing his riches, from revelling in them. Even if it is the will God that he should later return to them, God can make him one who is be detached from them, and puts them to good use for the kingdom of heaven.

But why are riches such an obstacle? Riches make us too big in our own eyes, and we believe in the eyes of others also. We are not willing to lose that imagined advantage. They become tied up with our sense of self-worth. We have too much baggage, too much self-importance. Riches also provide security. We trust in riches and possessions rather than trusting in the Lord. The rich young ruler was required by Christ to deal a fatal blow to his earthly security, and he could not do it. This was part of his repentance.

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Mark 10:23 Commentary and Bible Study