Are there rich people in Heaven?

Are there rich people in Heaven?

It's a funny question but looking at Jesus’ words to the rich young man, it's easy to doubt that there are.

So, let’s see what’s going on there.

A Hyperbolic Messiah

When Jesus says things like…

…you’d think He’s saying that a rich person can’t enter His Kingdom.

(After all, how many camels have you seen weave their way through the eye of a needle?)

So, is that the takeaway here?

In my opinion, no.

The Gospels record multiple instances of wealthy followers of Jesus portrayed in a positive light (Matthew 8v5-13; Mark 15v42-47; Luke 8v3).

What Jesus is doing in Mark 10v25 is using one of His favorite rhetorical techniques - hyperbole.

He does so to show the intensity and importance of His message, using the rich young man as a prime example.

No One’s Making it Through That Eye

When the disciples heard Jesus’ remark about the camel and the eye of the needle, they were aghast. 

“Then who can be saved?” they asked.

Jesus looked at them and said, “For mortals it is impossible, but not for God; for God all things are possible.”

That’s true for all of us, rich and poor. Human beings cannot create salvation for themselves, it’s impossible, which is why Jesus came after all.

We all need Him.

With that said, however, everyone’s vices are different.

And there’s a reason the Gospel writers emphasize the rich young man’s social and economic standing.

Look at what the Apostle Paul wrote in 1 Timothy 6v9-10…

Money might not be the root of all evil but it is A root of evil.

And, as Paul said, those who want to be rich are easily trapped by it.

So, lest you think I’m a money-grubbing capitalist, just tune in tomorrow because even though Jesus isn’t knocking the concept of wealth, the wealthy certainly aren’t getting off scot-free. 

For now, be blessed.

Jon,

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