Luke 18:24

In Luke 18:24, Jesus observes the rich young ruler's profound sadness after being challenged to sell his possessions and follow Him. This verse captures Jesus' immediate reaction and profound statement about the spiritual obstacles wealth can create.

Context

This verse directly follows the encounter between Jesus and a wealthy young man, often referred to as the rich young ruler. The ruler approached Jesus asking how to inherit eternal life. After Jesus listed several commandments, the man claimed to have kept them all from his youth. Jesus then presented the ultimate challenge: "Sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me." (Luke 18:22). The ruler's response, recorded in Luke 18:23, was deep sorrow, "for he was very rich." Jesus' statement in verse 24 is a direct reflection on this moment, highlighting the spiritual burden of attachment to worldly possessions.

Key Themes

• The Peril of Riches: Jesus' statement, "How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!" underscores the significant spiritual danger associated with wealth. It's not wealth itself that is condemned, but the human tendency to trust in it, to find security in it, or to allow it to become an idol that supplants God.
• Entry into the Kingdom of God: The "kingdom of God" refers to God's sovereign rule and the spiritual realm where His will is done. Entering it implies a relationship with God marked by submission, faith, and obedience. This entry requires a heart fully devoted to God, free from competing allegiances.
• The Cost of Discipleship: This passage vividly illustrates that true discipleship may demand radical sacrifice. For the rich young ruler, his wealth was the ultimate obstacle to following Jesus wholeheartedly.
• Sorrow of Earthly Attachment: The ruler's sorrow reveals the deep grip material possessions can have on the human heart, making it difficult to prioritize spiritual truth over worldly comfort and security.

Linguistic Insights

The KJV phrase "How hardly" translates the Greek word duskolōs (δυσκόλως), which means "with difficulty," "scarcely," or "troublesomely." It emphasizes the extreme challenge, not an absolute impossibility. This word highlights the immense obstacle that wealth, when clung to, presents to spiritual entry into God's reign.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a timeless warning for all believers, regardless of their material status. It prompts us to examine our own hearts:

• Where is our trust? Do we rely on our financial security, possessions, or career more than on God's provision and grace?
• What are our true priorities? Are we willing to let go of anything that hinders our full devotion to Christ and His kingdom?
• Stewardship: For those blessed with resources, this verse calls for responsible stewardship, using wealth for God's purposes rather than allowing it to become a barrier to spiritual growth.

While challenging, Jesus' subsequent words in Luke 18:27 offer hope: "The things which are impossible with men are possible with God." This reminds us that salvation and true devotion are ultimately God's work, enabling us to overcome even the most entrenched worldly attachments.