"It Is Easier for a Camel to Go Through the Eye of a Needle Than for a Rich Man to Enter the Kingdom of God"
A Sermon on Matthew 19:24
Introduction
One of the most startling and challenging statements Jesus ever made is found in Matthew 19:24:
"Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God."
At first glance, this seems extreme—even impossible. How can a camel, the largest animal in Palestine at the time, pass through the eye of a needle, one of the smallest openings? And why would Jesus say that wealth makes entering God’s kingdom so difficult?
This statement was so shocking that even Jesus' disciples responded in astonishment:
"Who then can be saved?" (Matthew 19:25).
If the rich—who were often seen as blessed by God—struggled to enter heaven, what hope was there for anyone else?
Today, we will explore:
The Meaning of Jesus’ Statement
The Danger of Wealth to the Soul
How We Can Respond
1. The Meaning of Jesus’ Statement
A. Historical Context
Some scholars suggest that the "eye of the needle" refers to a small gate in Jerusalem’s wall where camels had to kneel and be unloaded to pass through. While this is an appealing interpretation, there is little historical evidence for it. Jesus was likely using hyperbole—an intentional exaggeration to make a powerful point.
A camel trying to go through a literal needle’s eye is impossible. Likewise, a person trusting in riches will find it impossible to enter God’s kingdom.
B. The Encounter with the Rich Young Ruler
This statement came after a wealthy young man asked Jesus, "What good thing must I do to get eternal life?" (Matthew 19:16).
Jesus told him to keep the commandments, and the man claimed he had. Then Jesus said:
"If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." (Matthew 19:21).
The man went away sad because he had great wealth. His money was his idol—his true master.
C. The Heart of the Issue
Jesus wasn’t condemning wealth itself but the love of money and the trust in riches over God. The problem wasn’t the man’s bank account but his heart.
Paul later wrote:
"For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil." (1 Timothy 6:10).
The rich young ruler’s wealth was a barrier because he valued it more than God.
2. The Danger of Wealth to the Soul
Why is wealth such a spiritual danger?
A. Wealth Can Deceive Us into Self-Sufficiency
When we have money, we may feel we don’t need God. We rely on our resources instead of His provision.
"Command those who are rich in this present world not to be arrogant nor to put their hope in wealth, which is so uncertain, but to put their hope in God." (1 Timothy 6:17).
B. Wealth Can Distract Us from Eternal Things
Jesus warned:
"Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth… but store up for yourselves treasures in heaven." (Matthew 6:19-20).
Material things can consume our attention, making us forget God’s kingdom.
C. Wealth Can Hinder Generosity
The rich young ruler was unwilling to part with his wealth to help the poor. Many today hoard riches while others suffer.
"If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?" (1 John 3:17).
D. Wealth Can Become an Idol
Anything we love more than God is an idol. Jesus said:
"No one can serve two masters… You cannot serve both God and money." (Matthew 6:24).
3. How We Can Respond
If wealth is such a danger, what should we do?
A. Examine Our Hearts
Ask:
Do I trust in money more than God?
Am I more attached to possessions than to Christ?
Do I give generously, or do I cling tightly to wealth?
B. Cultivate Eternal Perspective
Jesus told the rich young ruler:
"Sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven." (Matthew 19:21).
We must invest in what lasts forever—God’s kingdom.
C. Practice Generosity
God blesses us not to hoard but to share.
"Command them to do good, to be rich in good deeds, and to be generous and willing to share." (1 Timothy 6:18).
D. Trust in God’s Grace
When the disciples asked, "Who then can be saved?" Jesus replied:
"With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible." (Matthew 19:26).
Salvation is not earned; it is received by grace through faith (Ephesians 2:8-9). Even the rich can be saved if they surrender to Christ.
Conclusion: The Way Forward
Jesus’ words are a wake-up call. Wealth is not evil in itself, but if it becomes our security, our identity, or our god, it will keep us from true life in Christ.
Two Final Challenges:
If Jesus asked you to give up something you love more than Him, could you?
Are you storing up treasures on earth or in heaven?
The good news is that what is impossible for man is possible with God. No matter how tightly we cling to earthly things, God’s grace can break those chains.
Let us pray:
"Lord, search our hearts. Show us if we love anything more than You. Help us to hold loosely to earthly treasures and cling tightly to You. Give us generous hearts and eternal perspective. Thank You that salvation is by Your grace, not our works. In Jesus’ name, Amen."
Final Thought:
"What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?" (Mark 8:36). May we seek first the kingdom of God above all else.
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