And the disciples were astonished at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
And {G1161} the disciples {G3101} were astonished {G2284} at {G1909} his {G846} words {G3056}. But {G1161} Jesus {G2424} answereth {G611} again {G3825}, and saith {G3004} unto them {G846}, Children {G5043}, how {G4459} hard {G1422} is it {G2076} for them that trust {G3982} in {G1909} riches {G5536} to enter {G1525} into {G1519} the kingdom {G932} of God {G2316}!
The talmidim were astounded at these words; but Yeshua said to them again, "My friends, how hard it is to enter the Kingdom of God!
And the disciples were amazed at His words. But Jesus said to them again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God!
And the disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus answereth again, and saith unto them, Children, how hard is it for them that trust in riches to enter into the kingdom of God!
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James 5:1
¶ Go to now, [ye] rich men, weep and howl for your miseries that shall come upon [you]. -
James 5:3
Your gold and silver is cankered; and the rust of them shall be a witness against you, and shall eat your flesh as it were fire. Ye have heaped treasure together for the last days. -
Proverbs 11:28
¶ He that trusteth in his riches shall fall: but the righteous shall flourish as a branch. -
Revelation 3:17
Because thou sayest, I am rich, and increased with goods, and have need of nothing; and knowest not that thou art wretched, and miserable, and poor, and blind, and naked: -
Psalms 52:7
Lo, [this is] the man [that] made not God his strength; but trusted in the abundance of his riches, [and] strengthened himself in his wickedness. -
1 Timothy 6:17
Charge them that are rich in this world, that they be not highminded, nor trust in uncertain riches, but in the living God, who giveth us richly all things to enjoy; -
Luke 16:14
And the Pharisees also, who were covetous, heard all these things: and they derided him.
Mark 10:24 captures Jesus’ clarification to His disciples after their astonishment at His initial teaching regarding the difficulty for wealthy individuals to enter the Kingdom of God. This verse refines the previous statement, shifting the focus from mere possession of wealth to the dangerous act of placing one's reliance or security in it.
Context
This verse follows the encounter between Jesus and the rich young ruler, who went away sorrowful because he was unwilling to part with his great possessions. Jesus then declared that it is "hard" for a rich man to enter the Kingdom. The disciples, likely operating under the common Jewish belief that wealth was a sign of divine favor, were profoundly astonished by this teaching. Their shock prompted Jesus' further explanation in this verse, underscoring the spiritual danger of idolatry of money.
Key Themes
Linguistic Insights
The Greek word translated "trust" (τοῖς πεποιθότας – tois pepoithotas) implies a deep-seated confidence, reliance, or security. It highlights the internal attitude of the heart rather than just the external circumstance of having riches. The phrase "how hard" (δυσκόλως – dyskolōs) indicates extreme difficulty, not impossibility, emphasizing the profound challenge this misplaced trust presents.
Practical Application
This verse serves as a timeless warning for all believers. In a consumer-driven society, the temptation to find security and satisfaction in possessions is ever-present. Jesus calls us to examine our hearts: what do we truly rely on for our peace, joy, and future? Are our treasures stored on earth or in heaven? This teaching encourages a detachment from materialism and a deeper attachment to Christ, reminding us that we cannot serve both God and mammon. Our ultimate security and hope must be found in God alone.