Read Luke 18:25-30
Do Rich People Enter Heaven?
When the people heard Jesus say how hard it was for a rich person to enter into the kingdom of heaven, several asked, “Who then can be saved?” I’m trying to figure out why they asked that question. What was it about Jesus saying, “It’s hard for a rich person to be saved” that led to those asking, “Well then, who can be saved?” Did the people ask this question because they felt money is a stumbling block to so MANY PEOPLE?? Did they feel this put many people in this category, as if to be saying, “Who is there left that can be saved?”
Regardless of their motive for asking the question, Jesus’s answer is where I put my heart into. Jesus said, “With people it is impossible to see people get saved [not just the rich but anyone], but with God all things are possible.” The person trapped in their money and possessions can easily lose focus of Jesus. But the power of God can do the seemingly impossible and bring them into repentance and into a relationship with Christ. This could be said about anyone we look at and say, “There’s no way this person will ever come to Jesus.” Don’t let your heart go there.
What will life look like for those who do come to Christ? Verses 28 to 30 are a great example of what it will look like:
They will be willing to leave all they have: their money, their possessions, their homes, and their relationships. They will do it all for the sake of the Kingdom of God. Jesus ends by saying that those who are willing to make these sacrifices will receive far greater rewards in this life and in the Life to Come after we leave this earth – Eternal Life!
Once again Lord, what is hindering our faith walk with you? Help us to make the necessary sacrifices now so we can reach people for you and have the joy of knowing your rewards will be great now and in heaven!
