May 1, 2012 Why So Amazed?

Why So Amazed? Mark 10:24-27 The disciples were amazed at his words. But Jesus said again, “Children, how hard it is to enter the kingdom of God! 25 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.” 26 The disciples were even more amazed, and said to each other, “Who then can be saved?” 27 Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but not with God; all things are possible with God.” JESUS had just told a rich young man “Give up everything!” Then you are qualified to follow me. This is an extraordinary call to faith. The disciples were shocked. They were amazed. Why? Were they suddenly wondering if they, too, qualified to follow Jesus? But then Jesus speaks of even greater obstacles to the Kingdom: “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.” Many have said that Jesus is referring to a camel going through a small gate in the city wall called the “eye of the needle”. Truth is, Jesus is referring to the eye of a real needle. Amazed, the disciples are wondering what to do! “Who then can be saved?” Desperately they wonder, “How is it possible to enter the Kingdom of Heaven?” Then comes Jesus’ assurance: “all things are possible with God.” That is the Kingdom Truth. Only in God’s power will you enter God’s Kingdom. God has done a “God-thing” to save you as you faithfully confess Jesus as Lord. Recognize that truth. Rejoice in that truth. Nothing is impossible with God. Pause and consider what “impossible” thing are you dealing with? Give to the all-powerful God.