Indeed, this question touches on a matter Jesus addressed directly during His time on earth. In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus encountered a rich young man who asked what he must do to inherit eternal life. After a discussion about the commandments, which the young man claimed to have diligently followed, Jesus told him, “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.” Upon hearing this, the young man went away sad, for he had great wealth. Jesus then said to His disciples, “Truly I tell you, it is hard for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. Again 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.” (Matthew 19:21-24)

This teaching is profound and challenging, especially in societies where wealth is often associated with success and favor. The crux of Jesus’ message is not that wealth itself is evil, but rather that an undue attachment to wealth and possessions can lead one’s heart away from God. It’s about priority and allegiance; where one’s treasure is, there also will be one’s heart (Matthew 6:21).

However, the Bible also provides instances of wealthy individuals who used their resources for good, showing that it is one’s attitude toward wealth and how one uses it that truly matters. For example, Zacchaeus, a wealthy tax collector, responded to Jesus’ call by pledging to give half of his possessions to the poor and to repay anyone he had cheated fourfold (Luke 19:8).

Thus, it is possible for wealthy individuals to enter heaven, provided they do not let their wealth own them, are willing to part with it if it becomes an obstacle to their relationship with God, and strive to use their resources to serve God and others.