Then Jesus said to His disciples, “Assuredly, I say to you that it is hard for a rich man to enter the kingdom of heaven. And again, I say to you, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” When His disciples heard it, they were greatly astonished, saying, “Who then can be saved?” (Matthew 19:23-25)
Some theorize that the needle Jesus was speaking of was the NEEDLE GATE, supposedly a low and narrow after-hours entrance found in the wall surrounding Jerusalem. It was purposely small for security reasons, and a camel could only go through it by removing any saddles or packs and crawling through on its knees. The problem with this theory is there is no evidence such a gate ever existed. Beyond that, what sane camel driver would go through such contortions when larger gates were easily accessible?
Others claim that the word translated “camel” (Greek: kamelos) should actually be “cable” (Greek: kamilos). Then the verse would read that it is easier for a cable (or rope) to go through the eye of a needle. To believe this, however, brings up more problems than it solves, namely casting doubt on the inerrancy and inspiration of Scripture.
The most likely explanation is that Jesus was using hyperbole, a figure of speech that exaggerates for emphasis. Jesus used this technique at other times, referring to a “plank” in one’s eye (Matthew 7:3-5) and swallowing a camel (Matthew 23:24).
Jesus’ message is clear—it is IMPOSSIBLE for anyone to be saved ON HIS OWN MERITS. Often wealth was seen as proof of God’s approval, it was commonly taught by the rabbis that rich people were blessed by God and were, therefore, the MOST LIKELY CANDIDATES FOR HEAVEN. Jesus destroyed that notion, and along with it, the idea that ANYONE CAN EARN ETERNAL LIFE (“…the GIFT of God is eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Romans 6:23)). The disciples had the appropriate response to this startling statement. They were utterly amazed and asked, “Who then can be saved?” in the next verse. If the wealthy among them, which included the super-spiritual Pharisees and scribes, were unworthy of heaven, what hope was there for a poor man?
Men are saved through God’s gifts of grace, mercy, and faith. Nothing we do EARNS SALVATION for us. “For by GRACE you have been saved THROUGH FAITH, and that not of yourselves; it IS THE GIFT OF GOD, not of works, lest anyone should boast.” (Ephesians 2:8-9)
Your Personal Pastor -Bill Stockham