The Rich Man and the Needle’s Eye
In Matthew 19:24 Jesus said, "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." It is interesting that Matthew and Mark used the ordinary word for a sewing needle, whereas, Luke (the Physician) used the word for a surgical needle.
This needle is surely not the gate in the wall of Jerusalem but a needle of the variety mentioned above. It is a needle used with thread, especially in view of the word Luke used.
The Lord is speaking of the impossibility of a rich man entering into the kingdom of God. This is further strengthened by the reaction of the disciples, "who then can be saved?"
Jesus then answered, "with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible." The particular preposition, "with," that is a part of Jesus’ answer is of great significance. It means literally "by the side of," or "beside." When one walks beside men (or takes one’s stand beside men), one finds it impossible to be saved. However, when one walks beside God (takes one’s stand with God), one finds what was impossible becomes possible. What a fantastic teaching!!!
– Max Patterson, 4438 South 89th Road, Bolivar, MO 65613-8012
