RICHES AS OBSTACLES FOR ENTRY INTO HEAVEN
Riches, though often seen as a blessing, can become significant obstacles for entry into heaven. The Bible provides numerous examples and teachings that highlight the dangers of wealth and the importance of using it wisely to ensure eternal salvation.
Trusting in God, Not Riches
The wealthy often seek security in their possessions rather than in God’s providence. Paul wrote to Timothy, “Tell the rich in the present age not to be proud and not to rely on so uncertain a thing as wealth but rather on God, who richly provides us with all things for our enjoyment” (1 Tim 6:17). The Bible speaks of the folly of trusting in riches: “Those who trust in their riches will fall, but like green leaves the just will flourish” (Prov 11:28). Judas Iscariot, for instance, had left everything for Jesus but was led astray by his greed for money and the urge for false security, ultimately failing in his noble vocation as an apostle.
Forgetting God
The rich may forget God, who blesses them with riches. Moses warned the Israelites before entering the Promised Land: “Be careful not to forget the LORD, your God, by failing to keep his commandments and ordinances and statutes which I enjoin on you today: lest, when you have eaten and are satisfied, and have built fine houses and lived in them, and your herds and flocks have increased, your silver and gold has increased, and all your property has increased, you then become haughty of heart and forget the LORD, your God, who brought you out of the land of Egypt, that house of slavery” (Deut 8:11-14).
Unethical Practices
People desperate for wealth might resort to unethical practices and take advantage of others. Paul wrote, “Those who want to be rich are falling into temptation and into a trap and into many foolish and harmful desires, which plunge them into ruin and destruction. For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains” (1 Tim 6:9-10). Zacchaeus, upon realizing his exploitation of others, pledged to repay four times over what he had extorted, demonstrating a change of heart (Lk 19:8).
Lack of Charity
A rich person may become uncharitable, with less concern for others. The failure of the Rich Man in the Parable of the Rich Man and Lazarus was his lack of concern for Lazarus and others less fortunate in the community. In contrast, Zacchaeus was willing to share half of his property with the poor, earning Jesus’ praise (Lk 19:8-9). John asks, “If someone who has worldly means sees a brother in need and refuses him compassion, how can the love of God remain in him?” (1 Jn 3:17).
Jesus’ Teachings
Jesus emphasized the dangers of greed and the importance of using wealth to build up the kingdom of God. He said, “Take care to guard against all greed, for though one may be rich, one’s life does not consist of possessions” (Lk 12:15). He advised, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and decay destroy, and thieves break in and steal. But store up treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor decay destroys, nor thieves break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be” (Mt 6:19-21).
The Kingdom of Heaven
Jesus taught that gaining eternity in heaven is more meritorious than the temporal riches of the world. He said, “The Kingdom of Heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds and hides again, and out of joy goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. Again, the Kingdom of Heaven is like a merchant searching for fine pearls. When he finds a pearl of great price, he goes and sells all that he has and buys it” (Mt 13:44-46).
The Difficulty of Entry
When Jesus said it will be hard for the rich to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, he did not imply the impossibility but the pain of giving up worldly riches. Indeed, greed and selfishness would thwart the efforts of such people at doing so. The unwillingness to share our resources with others would be a snare in our spiritual life. Hence, Jesus asks, “What profit would there be for one to gain the entire world and forfeit one’s life?” (Mt 16:26).
Spiritual Fruitfulness
A Christian has to be spiritually fruitful. However, worldly ambitions and selfishness can hinder that productivity. While explaining the Parable of the Sower, Jesus said to the disciples, “The seed sown among thorns is the one who hears the word, but then worldly anxiety and the lure of riches choke the word and it bears no fruit” (Mt 13:22).
REFLECTION
Riches can be significant obstacles to entry into heaven if not managed with a focus on God and charity. As Christians, we must be mindful of the dangers of wealth and strive to use our resources to build up the kingdom of God, ensuring that our hearts remain with Him. Jesus teaches us to prioritize heavenly treasures over earthly ones, reminding us that our true security and joy come from God. Let us seek to be rich in faith and good works, sharing our blessings with others, and keeping our eyes fixed on the eternal rewards of heaven.