Mark - At ease in Zion

At ease in Zion

Mark 10:24 And the disciples were astonished at his words.

They were astonished, amazed and frightened with his words. When we see what God thinks of our sin, it should frighten us. Why is wealth a sin? Remember, Jesus said give it to the poor and follow me. Wealth for this one was to be given away, for he had placed too much of his heart in his wealth and not enough in following his "good teacher." Jesus was not Lord of his life.

1 Tim 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil: which while some coveted after, they have erred from the faith, and pierced themselves through with many sorrows.
1 Tim 6:11 But thou, O man of God, flee these things; and follow after righteousness, godliness, faith, love, patience, meekness.
1 Tim 6:12 Fight the good fight of faith, lay hold on eternal life, whereunto thou art also called, and hast professed a good profession before many witnesses.

Well, this applies only to those who love money? Does anyone claim to hate money? Are we all ready to give it away if Jesus asks us to? He must be Lord, in him we give our trust, not in money or insurance, these may fail but Jesus never fails, he is with us forever.

Mark 10:24 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!
Mark 10:25 It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Some have taught that the eye of the needle was a narrow gate in Jerusalem. There is no such gate. The needle is to be taken literally. An impossibility with man to love riches and also enter heaven.

Mark 10:26 And they were astonished out of measure, saying among themselves, Who then can be saved?

Now they were really concerned, amazed and fearful. What is our reaction to this? What about all the prosperity teaching?

Mark 10:27 And Jesus looking upon them saith, With men it is impossible, but not with God: for with God all things are possible.

Trust in God through Jesus, give all to him. For as you give to him he gives to you more of what you need.

Luke 6:38 Give, and it shall be given unto you; good measure, pressed down, and shaken together, and running over, shall men give into your bosom. For with the same measure that ye mete withal it shall be measured to you again.

If money is a problem with you, he will meet your needs and give you grace to follow him. If money is given willingly to God's needs, he will increase this as well. Wealth is not so we can lay around at ease. All is to be for the glory of God.

Amos 6:1 Woe to them that are at ease in Zion, and trust (in other things.)