24 Jesus, seeing that he became very sad, said, "How hard it is for those who have riches to enter into the Kingdom of God!
*Minor differences ignored. Grouped by changes, with first version listed as example.
How hardly shall they that have riches, etc. - See the notes on this discourse of our Lord, on Matthew 19:21-30 (note), and Mark 10:30 (note).
(8) And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful, he said, How hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God!
(8) To be both rich and godly is a singular gift of God.
And when Jesus saw that he was very sorrowful,.... As he might, by his looks and gestures; and perceived that he was determined not to part with his possessions, and follow him:
he said to his disciples, how hardly shall they that have riches enter into the kingdom of God! embrace the Gospel, and submit to the ordinances of it; deny themselves, part with their worldly substance for the cause of Christ, and interest of religion. Riches, which should be a reason for, are often a bar unto a profession of Christ, and his Gospel. This is delivered as an affirmation, or by way of assertion; see Gill on Matthew 19:23.
when Jesus saw--Mark says (Mark 3:34), He "looked round about"--as if first following the departing youth with His eye--"and saith unto His disciples."
How hardly, &c.--with what difficulty. In Mark (Mark 10:24) an explanation is added, "How hard is it for them that trust in riches," &c.--that is, with what difficulty is this idolatrous trust conquered, without which they cannot enter; and this is introduced by the word "children"--sweet diminutive of affection and pity (John 21:5).
*More commentary available at chapter level.