When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?
All Commentaries on Matthew 19:25 Go To Matthew 19
John Chrysostom
AD 407
What then did Christ say? “How difficult it will be for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven.” He was not criticizing money itself but the wills of those who are taken captive by it. If it will be difficult for the rich, how much more so for the avaricious! For if stinginess with one’s own wealth is an impediment to gaining the kingdom, think how much fire is amassed for taking someone else’s. But why does he say that it is hard for the rich man to enter the kingdom, to the disciples, who were poor and had nothing? He teaches them not to be ashamed of their poverty and, as it were, gives the reason why he did not allow them to possess anything. After saying it is hard, he also shows them that it is impossible, and not simply impossible but even in an exaggerated way impossible. He shows this from the comparison of the camel and the needle: “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven.” Hence Christ demonstrates that there is a significant reward for the wealthy who can practice selfdenial. He also said that this had to be the work of God, that he might show that great grace is needed for anyone who is going to achieve it. The Gospel of Matthew, Homily
