Matthew Henry Commentary Matthew 19:23-30

"And Jesus said unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, It is hard for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through a needle`s eye, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. And when the disciples heard it, they were astonished exceedingly, saying, Who then can be saved? And Jesus looking upon [them] said to them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible. Then answered Peter and said unto him, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee; what then shall we have? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, that ye who have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath left houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or children, or lands, for my name`s sake, shall receive a hundredfold, and shall inherit eternal life. But many shall be last [that are] first; and first [that are] last." — Matthew 19:23-30 (ASV)

Although Christ spoke so strongly, few who have riches do not trust in them. How few who are poor are not tempted to envy! But people's earnestness in this matter is like their toiling to build a high wall to shut themselves and their children out of heaven. It should be a satisfaction to those who are in a low condition that they are not exposed to the temptations of a high and prosperous condition.

If they live with greater hardship in this world than the rich, yet if they get to a better world more easily, they have no reason to complain. Christ's words show that it is hard for a rich man to be a good Christian and to be saved. The way to heaven is a narrow way for all, and the gate that leads into it, a strait gate; this is particularly so for rich people.

More duties are expected from them than from others, and more sins easily beset them. It is hard not to be charmed with a smiling world. Rich people have a great account to give for their opportunities, which exceed those of others. It is utterly impossible for a person who sets their heart upon their riches to get to heaven. Christ used an expression denoting a difficulty altogether unconquerable by human power.

Nothing less than the almighty grace of God will enable a rich man to get over this difficulty. Who then can be saved? If riches hinder rich people, are not pride and sinful lusts found in those who are not rich, and are these not as dangerous to them? Who can be saved? the disciples ask. None, says Christ, by any created power.

The beginning, progress, and perfecting of the work of salvation depend entirely on the almighty power of God, to whom all things are possible. It is not that rich people can be saved in their worldliness, but that they should be saved from it. Peter said, We have forsaken all. Alas! it was only a poor 'all,' only a few boats and nets; yet observe how Peter speaks, as if it had been some mighty thing.

We are too apt to make the most of our services and sufferings, our expenses and losses, for Christ. However, Christ does not upbraid them; although it was only a little that they had forsaken, yet it was their all and was as dear to them as if it had been more. Christ took it kindly that they left it to follow him; he accepts according to what a man hath. Our Lord's promise to the apostles is that when the Son of man shall sit on the throne of his glory, he will make all things new, and they shall sit with him in judgement on those who will be judged according to their doctrine.

This sets forth the honour, dignity, and authority of their office and ministry. Our Lord added that every one who had forsaken possessions or comforts, for his sake and the gospel, would be recompensed at last. May God give us faith to rest our hope on this promise of His; then we shall be ready for every service or sacrifice. Our Saviour, in the last verse, corrects a mistake of some.

The heavenly inheritance is not given as earthly ones are, but according to God's pleasure. Let us not trust in promising appearances or outward profession. Others may, for all we know, become eminent in faith and holiness.