Through the Eye of a Needle: The Doctrine of Nonaccumulation

by Roger Hertzler

A challenging look at Jesus' teachings against the accumulation of wealth.

104 pages, Perfect Paperback

First published July 5, 2007

Reviews

[Marvin Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is the second time I’ve read this book in the past ten years. It makes one do a personal evaluation of values and possessions. For me this book is part of my personal journey of my relationship with possessions, wealth, faith, and being a provider for my family.

I gave the book four stars because the author does a reasonably good job of presenting the material. If the presentation were more tactful it would have garnered five stars from me. (Maybe it was just my reaction to the bold presentation and not a lack of presentation gracefulness on the part of the author.)

Recommended read for any serious follower of Jesus.

[Dan Tillinghast · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hertzler takes a strong stand against accumulating money and possessions for ourselves. I'm not sure I agree with all his conclusions, but he presents the case in a manner that allows you to come to your own convictions.

[Orion · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not a long or deep book. But it doesn't need to be. The primary purpose is a simple reminder of doctrinal truth that is too easy to neglect. The majority of the Christian church institutions today actively teach against Jesus' instructions for us. Even those traditions who have long been zealous to keep to the true teachings of Jesus (Anabaptists, mostly) tend to fall short on some of Jesus' teachings about our acquisition, accumulation, and use of material wealth.
This book is aimed at conservative anabaptist churches who are already onboard with the idea that Christian's are disciples (followers) of Jesus, and his teachings are real and relevant for all disciples, even today (a great commission church). If you're part of a church that teaches against Jesus' instructions, you probably won't even get the premise from the beginning. If you are in such a tradition, this book will challenge you with the teachings of Jesus that even your church has likely neglected for a long time. Challenging indeed!

[Ryan Yoder · Rating 1 out of 5]

A house built upon sand.

The book hinges on one’s method of interpretation. The author purports to use literal interpretation but it seems to change depending on which outcome is needed. Specifically, he cannot seem to keep his interpretation of parables consistent. The logical fallacy of “begging the question” is committed often.

[Derek Kreider · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great look at the biblical rationale behind no accumulation. This is a doctrine I find it harder to assent to and adhere to than just about any other, including nonviolence. But looking at the words of Jesus and early church practice, it’s hard to deny. I appreciate this book because it is very simple, full of conviction, yet but too heavy handed as I expected it to be.

[Kim · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fascinating book on money. The premise is to give most of your money away and live on what you can afford. The stories are inspiring. However, after the first few chapters, i found it a bit boring and struggled to finish it.

[Shawnele · Rating 5 out of 5]

I increasingly wonder why our modern church culture completely ignores many of the core tenets of Christianity. In this case, I assume it's because the "American Dream" is completely at odds with the truth that it is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to get into heaven. This book is a great refresher on what Christ (and His disciples) actually said about wealth and the Christian.

[Josh]

You might not agree with everything Hertzler proposes, but this book will probably deeply challenge the way you view money.