But things did not go well, for while he was doing his accounts his thoughts were with the Master, and he made errors; and when he was with the Master his thoughts were with his money, and he missed what was being said.

He must leave either one or the other, and he could not decide which.

But after listening to the Sermon on the Mount he determined to go no more to his place of business, but to remain with Jesus, so strong was his belief in Him.

And the exchange brought as much joy into his heart as if he had lent money to a man at two hundred per cent.

For he would have treasure in the Kingdom of the Messiah.
The only people who more or less still held aloof were the Galileans.
They had known the Prophet as a carpenter, and were uncertain what position to take up towards Him.