'Who is the Rich Man That Shall Be Saved?' Summary

In this short treatise, Clement of Alexandria examines the words of Jesus Christ to the young rich man, recounted in the gospels. In the account, the man asks Jesus what he must do to inherit eternal life. First, Jesus advises the man to obey the commandments, then Jesus adds: "If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me." However, when he heard this, "he became very sorrowful because he was very wealthy. Jesus looked at him and said, 'How hard it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven! Indeed, it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven.'" Does this mean that every Christian should give away their goods and become poor? Clement clarifies exactly what was meant by Christ. He argues that Jesus was not condemning wealth itself, but rather the love of money and the attachment to material possessions. Clement emphasizes that true wealth lies not in material possessions, but in spiritual riches, such as faith, hope, and love. Clement's treatise is a valuable resource for Christians who are seeking to understand the relationship between wealth and salvation. It offers a balanced and nuanced perspective on this complex issue, and it provides guidance for Christians who are seeking to live a life of faith and discipleship.