1. So even a pre fascist can't miss the point of a parable or a teachable moment--- Jesus almost always explains the point of the parable.
So this was the point here...
25When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?”
26Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”
You don't merit eternal life with God on your own you need to ask God for his grace.
2. Also note.. this rich man told Jesus he was keeping all the commandments.
Jesus was like yeah sure... but if you really want eternal life... sell everything and follow me.
Follow me... is the teaching here... because if you really follow Jesus... you will understand God keeps his promises.
The Rich and the Kingdom of God
16Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, “Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life?”
17“Why do you ask me about what is good?” Jesus replied. “There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments.”
18“Which ones?” he inquired.
Jesus replied, “ ‘You shall not murder, you shall not commit adultery, you shall not steal, you shall not give false testimony,
19honor your father and mother,’
c and ‘love your neighbor as yourself.’
d ”
20“All these I have kept,” the young man said. “What do I still lack?”
21Jesus answered, “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.”
22When the young man heard this, he went away sad, because he had great wealth.
23Then Jesus said to his disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven.
24Again I tell you, 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 God.”
25When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, “Who then can be saved?”
26Jesus looked at them and said, “With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.”