Getting into Heaven is Impossible Without God
A rich man asks Jesus how to get to heaven. The man reels off a list of all he’s done, of all of God’s commands that he’s kept. He waits for Jesus to affirm him, but deep down he knows he still falls short. “What else must I do,” he asks?
Then Jesus hits him in the wallet. “Give all your money and possessions to the poor. Then follow me.”
The man walks away despondent. He’s not ready to put Jesus first in his life and follow him instead of relying on money.
Then Jesus explains to his disciples how hard it is for people who put their trust in money to make it into heaven. But it’s not just the rich people who are at risk.
Jesus adds more: getting into heaven is impossible if we try to do it on our own. The good news is that “with God, all things are possible.”
This is an indirect way to remind us that we can’t earn our salvation. It is a gift from God.
[Read through the Bible with us this year. Today’s reading is Matthew 17-19, and today’s post is on Matthew 19:26.]
Peter DeHaan writes about biblical Christianity to confront status quo religion and live a life that matters. He seeks a fresh approach to following Jesus through the lens of Scripture, without the baggage of made-up traditions and meaningless practices.
Read more in his books, blog, and weekly email updates.
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