How hardly shall they that have riches, etc. - See the notes on this discourse of our Lord, on Matthew 19:21-30 (note), and Mark 10:30 (note).

And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful,.... As he might, by his looks and gestures; and perceived that he was determined not to part with his possessions, and follow him:

he said to his disciples, how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! embrace the Gospel, and submit to the ordinances of it; deny themselves, part with their worldly substance for the cause of Christ, and interest of religion. Riches, which should be a reason for, are often a bar unto a profession of Christ, and his Gospel. This is delivered as an affirmation, or by way of assertion; see Gill on Matthew 19:23.

{8} And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!

(8) To be both rich and godly is a singular gift of God.

18:18-30 And a certain ruler asked him. For notes on the case of the Rich Young Ruler, see Mt 19:16-30; also Mr 10:17-31. The ruler was probably ruler of a synagogue. See Mt 4:23.

24. when Jesus saw-Mark says (Mr 3:34), He "looked round about"-as if first following the departing youth with His eye-"and saith unto His disciples."

How hardly, &c.-with what difficulty. In Mark (Mr 10:24) an explanation is added, "How hard is it for them that trust in riches," &c.-that is, with what difficulty is this idolatrous trust conquered, without which they cannot enter; and this is introduced by the word "children"-sweet diminutive of affection and pity (Joh 21:5).

18:18-30 Many have a great deal in them very commendable, yet perish for lack of some one thing; so this ruler could not bear Christ's terms, which would part between him and his estate. Many who are loth to leave Christ, yet do leave him. After a long struggle between their convictions and their corruptions, their corruptions carry the day. They are very sorry that they cannot serve both; but if one must be quitted, it shall be their God, not their wordly gain. Their boasted obedience will be found mere outside show; the love of the world in some form or other lies at the root. Men are apt to speak too much of what they have left and lost, of what they have done and suffered for Christ, as Peter did. But we should rather be ashamed that there has been any regret or difficulty in doing it.