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But having heard this the disciples were considerably shocked1 and so asked: “Then who in reality can be saved?”2
| 1 | Considerably shocked: Or, KJV: exceedingly amazed; RHM: greatest astonishment; KNX: great bewilderment; GDSP: completely astounded. One would think from a human standpoint that if a rich man could not succeed (someone with the wherewithal) then who could? |
| 2 | Saved: We must remember here this is the view of the disciples. We must not create a doctrinal idea based on the limited understanding of immature Christians. Jesus has used “Life” and “Realm of Heaven.” The young rabbi has used the phrase “everlasting life.” None of this may be on the mark. |
Dear Friends of the Nazarene,
We choose Matthew 19:25 as the theme verse of chapter nineteen – The Difficulty of Being Saved. Jesus leaves Galilee for Judah. [1, 2] The Jewish leadership raises the question of divorce. [3-9] Jesus borrows from Genesis 1:26, 27 and Genesis 2:24 to prove a man should marry only one woman. The provision of divorce was given because of the hardness of Israelite men. However, the Nazarene states that sexual immorality is the only basis for divorcing a wife. Christ recommends the celibate lifestyle to those who have the gift. [10-12]
When the disciples rebuke parents for bring their children, Jesus teaches that the Kingdom belongs to the child-like. [13-15] Next a rich Jewish man asks what he must do to gain everlasting life. [16-24] Jesus first states to observe the commandments, but when the man states he has always done this, the Nazarene continues with the instruction: “To be perfect sell your possessions and give to the poor.” The man left very grieved, so Jesus states how so very difficult it is for the rich to enter the Kingdom.
The disciples ask who can be saved, so Jesus explains that form a human standpoint it is impossible for the rich to gain kingdom inheritance, however “anything is possible for God.” [25, 26] Peter responds that the apostles “have left everything for you.” [27-29] Jesus promises that in the New World those faithful apostles will judge Israel. However, they must be willing to leave much behind. Many of those who appear first will be last, the last first. [30]
Abba our Father bless those who make sacrifices to follow Christ.
[31 October 2002]
