Mark 10:24 Commentary and Bible Study

‘Astonished’ – it is a strong word in the Greek. Clearly they thought a rich man was far more likely to be saved. Why? The Jews thought that all Jews went to heaven, but that the rich were most likely to go, and had the highest places. The rich were particularly cultured, the philanthropists of the day. They had the education and refinement, and were therefore most likely to have a high place. This is therefore a double shock statement. They were amazed that a well-intending rich man could not be saved. Then who can be? It was a superstitious view – if you are rich you are halfway to heaven. ‘Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!’ – those who trust in riches, not those who possess riches. But riches are deceitful, and many like this rich young ruler do not realise what a grip their riches have on them until they try to be rid of them. Trust in riches is an alternative that competes with trust in God. This is why the apostle Paul calls covetousness idolatry.