21 Then Jesus, looking at him, loved him, and said to him, “One thing you lack: Go your way, sell whatever you have and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven; and come, take up the cross, and follow Me.” 22 But he was sad at this word, and went away sorrowful, for he had great possessions. 23 Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, “How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!” 24 And the disciples were astonished at His words. But Jesus answered again and said to them, “Children, how hard it is for those who TRUST in riches 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 And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, “Who then can be saved?” 27 But Jesus looked at them and said, “With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.
Mark 10:21-27
Q & A：
- What is your view on the perception that rich Christians are more carnal or worldly whereas poor Christians are more spiritual? Knowing that God is not against money or people being well provided for life, discuss what causes us to depart from God by referring to our attitude or identity tied to this world? (Mark 10:21-22; Col 3:5; Deu 8:12-13, 17-18)
- What is the root problem when Christians feel the need to compromise or be conformed to the worldly values in order to be successful? How can we know and what can we do so that money has not become an idol or a stronghold in our lives? (Rom 12:1-2; Mark 10:27-30)
- Knowing that Jesus’ ministry was supported financially by those whom He had ministered to, how does this help you better understand the way God positioned successful business people in the marketplace and to be good steward of God’s money? Discuss the principles that you have learnt to follow so that it is possible for a Christian to be rich, influential, successful and godly operating in this world. (John 13:29; Luke 8:3; 3 John 2; Ps 127:1-2)