Hover over Romans 1:20-22 for proof of God's existence, and over Matthew 5:27-28 for Judgment Day’s perfect standard. Then hover over John 3:16-18 for what God did, and over Acts 17:30-31 for what to do.

Friday, May 23, 2008

No Contradictions?

“Let me try and understand this. According to you, Jesus DID say that it's impossible for a rich man to enter heaven. Then down in the very same post you describe a rich man who did what Jesus said is impossible. Now explain to me again how there are no internal contradictions in the Bible?”

There is no contradiction. This is what the Bible says:

"Then Jesus looked around and said to His disciples, 'How hard it is for those who have riches to enter the kingdom of God!' 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! 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.' And they were greatly astonished, saying among themselves, 'Who then can be saved?' But Jesus looked at them and said, 'With men it is impossible, but not with God; for with God all things are possible.'” (Mark 10:23-27)

We are told that the disciples were “astonished” at what He said. So it seems that Jesus was talking about a literal camel and a literal needle--something truly impossible. But then Jesus added that with God nothing is impossible. That means that He can change the money-loving heart of a rich man, if He so desires.

The fact is, it’s “impossible” for anyone to enter the Kingdom of God without the help of God. No amount of riches can buy your way in. The Bible says that there are “none” who seek after God (see Romans 3:10-12). We hate God without cause. His name is used as a cuss word, and some even do the unthinkable--they deny that He even exists, which is extremely foolish in the face of this incredible creation. So, it takes what is called “grace” to draw us to Him. He softens the hardened heart, opens the closed mind, and changes our wrong direction. He then opens our blind eyes and gives us light so that we can understand the gospel and be saved. This is described in detail in 2 Corinthians 4:3-6. God did this with me, and He can do it with you--if you are willing. Amazing grace.