ACC ~ Mark 10 v25

WHETHER THE RICH CAN BE SAVED

CLEMENT OF ALEXANDRIA: The Savior by no means has excluded the rich on account of wealth itself, and the possession of property, nor fenced off salvation against them, if they are able and willing to submit their life to God’s commandments, and prefer them to transitory things. Let them look to the Lord with steady eye, as those who look toward the slightest nod of a good helmsman, what he wishes, what he orders, what he indicates, what signal he gives his mariners, where and when he directs the ship’s course. … If one is able in the midst of wealth to turn from its mystique, to entertain moderate desires, to exercise self-control, to seek God alone, and to breathe God and walk with God, such a man submits to the commandments, being free, unsubdued, free of disease, unwounded by wealth. But if not, “sooner shall a camel enter through a needle’s eye, than such a rich man reach the kingdom of God.” [1] SALVATION OF THE RICH MAN 26. [2]

[1] Mt 19:24; Mk 10:25; Lk 18:25.

[2] ANF 2:598-99*; TLG 0555.006, 26.2.1-3.1, 6.1-8.1.

ON PASSING WEALTH TO CHILDREN

SALVIAN THE PRESBYTER: There is no compelling necessity for you to store up large earthly treasures for your children. You would do better to make your offspring treasures of God than make them richer in worldly goods. [1] THE FOUR BOOKS OF TIMOTHY TO THE CHURCH 1.4. [2]

[1] Cf. Mt 6:19-21.

[2] SC 176:154; FC 3:277**. Offering children wealth without salvation is not a good economy.

Mk