What does "greatly astonished" reveal about the disciples' reaction to Jesus' teaching? The Setting: Jesus’ Upsetting Word to the Disciples “Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter the kingdom of God.” (Matthew 19:24) Immediately afterward: “When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, ‘Who then can be saved?’” (Matthew 19:25) Unpacking the Phrase “Greatly Astonished” • The Greek term ἐξεπλήσσοντο σφόδρα combines a verb meaning “struck out of themselves” with an adverb meaning “exceedingly.” • It points to more than mild surprise; it is a visceral jolt—hearts racing, jaws dropped. • The word choice shows the Holy Spirit intends us to feel their amazement as a dramatic, unforgettable moment. What Their Astonishment Tells Us • Their worldview was shattered – Old-covenant promises connected obedience with prosperity (Deuteronomy 28:1-14). – Abraham, Job, and Solomon reinforced the link between wealth and God’s favor (Genesis 24:35; Job 42:10; 1 Kings 10:23). – Jesus’ statement reversed that expectation, so the disciples were stunned. • They recognized an apparent impossibility – “Who then can be saved?” exposes their realization that if the rich—those presumed closest to divine blessing—face such difficulty, everyone is in trouble. – Their question echoes Psalm 130:3: “If You, O LORD, kept a record of iniquities, who could stand?” • They took Jesus literally – They did not treat His words as hyperbole to soften; they reacted as though a genuine barrier existed. – Their literal response validates the plain, straightforward meaning of Christ’s teaching. • Their shock positions them for grace – Jesus’ reply, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible” (Matthew 19:26), redirects their trust from human ability to divine power. – This anticipates the gospel of grace: “For by grace you have been saved through faith… not from yourselves” (Ephesians 2:8-9). • Their emotional honesty models true discipleship – They did not hide confusion or pretend understanding; they brought raw questions to the Lord. – Such openness invites Christ’s clarifying word (cf. Mark 4:10-13). Broader Biblical Echoes • Mark 10:24-26 and Luke 18:24-26 record the same astonishment, underscoring its significance. • 1 Corinthians 1:26-29 shows God’s pattern of overturning human expectations about status and salvation. • Romans 3:10-12 confirms universal inability, preparing hearts to cherish God’s “impossible” saving work. Takeaway for Today “Greatly astonished” reveals that Jesus’ teaching shattered long-held assumptions, exposed human helplessness, and drove His followers to seek salvation in God alone. Their shocked question becomes our own, and His answer—“with God all things are possible”—remains the bedrock of gospel hope. |
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