21 And Jesus having looked upon him, did love him, and said to him, 'One thing thou dost lack; go away, whatever thou hast—sell, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven, and come, be following me, having taken up the cross.' 22 And he—gloomy at the word—went away sorrowing, for he was having many possessions. 23 And Jesus having looked round, saith to his disciples, 'How hardly shall they who have riches enter into the reign of God!'
Matthew Henry's Commentary on Mark 10:21-23
Commentary on Mark 10:17-22
(Read Mark 10:17-22)
This young ruler showed great earnestness. He asked what he should do now, that he might be happy for ever. Most ask for good to be had in this world; any good, Matthew 6:24, Ye cannot serve God and mammon.
Commentary on Mark 10:23-31
(Read Mark 10:23-31)
Christ took this occasion to speak to his disciples about the difficulty of the salvation of those who have abundance of this world. Those who thus eagerly seek the wealth of the world, will never rightly prize Christ and his grace. Also, as to the greatness of the salvation of those who have but little of this world, and leave it for Christ. The greatest trial of a good man's constancy is, when love to Jesus calls him to give up love to friends and relatives. Even when gainers by Christ, let them still expect to suffer for him, till they reach heaven. Let us learn contentment in a low state, and to watch against the love of riches in a high one. Let us pray to be enabled to part with all, if required, in Christ's service, and to use all we are allowed to keep in his service.