Mark 10:23-27
Summary for Mark 10:23-27: 10:23-27 a Jesus astounded the disciples by reversing the idea, popular at that time, that riches were a sign of God’s favor.10:24 b In response to the disciples’ amazement, Jesus addressed them affectionately as dear children.
10:25 c Jesus was emphatically warning that riches are an obstacle to entering the Kingdom of God. The camel was the largest animal in Palestine, the eye of a needle the smallest hole. Some rich people are evidently able to overcome the problem created by riches and follow Jesus, but Jesus’ followers came from among the poor more than from the rich.
• Explanations about a gate in the Jerusalem wall called the “Eye of the Needle” are ill-conceived. There never was such a gate, and this explanation loses sight of Jesus’ frequent use of hyperbole in his teaching (see also Matt 7:3-5 d; 23:24 e).
10:26 f The disciples were astounded: It was generally believed that wealth was a sign of God’s blessing that enabled the rich to do good deeds. Accordingly, it was assumed that the rich had an inside track on entering the Kingdom of God. The disciples’ question was natural, given this understanding. God’s assessment was the opposite of their conventional wisdom.
10:27 g This verse tends to be interpreted in one of two ways: (1) Although salvation by one’s own effort is impossible, by God’s grace people can be saved through faith (Eph 2:8-10 h). (2) God can give an unusual grace that enables people to overcome their sinful love of riches and believe. Mark does not explain his understanding.
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