# Overview Matthew Chapter 19 begins with [[Jesus Christ (Multiple)|Jesus Christ]] leaving #Galilee and traveling to the region of #Judea beyond the Jordan. Here, large crowds follow Him, and He continues His ministry of healing them. The #Pharisees approach Jesus with a question about the legality of divorce, attempting to test Him. Jesus responds by referencing the creation account, emphasizing that from the beginning, God made them male and female and intended marriage to be a lifelong union. He highlights the sanctity of marriage by stating that what God has joined together, no one should separate. When questioned further about #Moses' allowance for divorce, Jesus explains it was due to the hardness of people's hearts but was not God's original intention. This teaching challenges the cultural norms of the time, underscoring the kingdom values of commitment and fidelity. The chapter also addresses the importance of childlike faith as Jesus welcomes little children brought to Him for blessing. Despite the disciples initially rebuking the people for bringing children, Jesus insists that the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these, highlighting the value and purity of childlike trust and humility. Furthermore, the narrative continues with the interaction between Jesus and a rich young man seeking eternal life. Jesus instructs him to keep the commandments and then challenges him to sell his possessions and give to the poor, promising treasure in heaven. The young man leaves sorrowfully, revealing the difficulty of prioritizing earthly wealth over spiritual riches. Jesus then teaches His disciples about the challenges wealth poses in entering the kingdom of heaven, using the metaphor of a camel passing through the eye of a needle. The chapter concludes with the promise that those who have left everything for His sake will receive a hundredfold and inherit eternal life, emphasizing the reversal of worldly values in God's kingdom. ## Theological Insights Matthew 19 presents several profound theological themes that are integral to understanding [[Jesus Christ (Multiple)|Jesus Christ]]' teachings on #marriage, #divorce, #children, and #wealth. 1. **Marriage and Divorce**: In verses 3-9, [[Jesus Christ (Multiple)|Jesus Christ]] addresses the question of divorce, referring back to the original design in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 2]] where a man and woman are united as one flesh. Jesus emphasizes the sanctity and permanence of the marital bond, declaring, "What therefore God has joined together, let not man separate." This reinforces the divine intention for marriage as a lifelong covenant, reflecting God's faithfulness to His people. 2. **Celibacy for the Kingdom**: In verses 10-12, Jesus introduces the concept of celibacy for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. This is a voluntary commitment made by those who choose to devote themselves entirely to serving God. It highlights the value of self-sacrifice and dedication to spiritual pursuits over earthly ties. 3. **Valuing Children**: Jesus' interaction with the children in verses 13-15 underscores their importance in God's kingdom. By stating, "for to such belongs the kingdom of heaven," Jesus affirms the necessity of humility and dependence, qualities embodied by children, for entering the kingdom of God. This interaction reflects God's inclusive love and the call to receive the kingdom with childlike faith. 4. **Wealth and the Kingdom of God**: The encounter with the rich young man in verses 16-22 offers a powerful commentary on the dangers of wealth. Jesus' instruction to sell possessions and give to the poor reveals the heart issue of idolatry and attachment to material wealth. The difficulty of a rich person entering the kingdom of God, as elaborated in verses 23-26, underscores the necessity of prioritizing spiritual riches over earthly wealth. 5. **Reward and Sacrifice**: In verses 27-30, Jesus assures His disciples that sacrifices made for His sake will be rewarded. This promise of eternal life and abundant blessings in the kingdom to come serves as an encouragement for believers to remain steadfast in their faith and commitment to Christ, despite worldly challenges or losses. Collectively, these teachings in Matthew 19 provide a comprehensive view of the values of the kingdom of heaven, challenging believers to align their lives with God's eternal purposes and to trust in His provision and promises. ## Thematic Connections ### Marriage and Divorce Matthew 19 delves into the themes of #marriage and #divorce, reflecting back to foundational principles established in the #OldTestament. Jesus refers to [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 2]] to affirm that marriage is a divine institution, emphasizing the oneness and permanence intended by God. This connection underscores the sacred nature of marriage and the seriousness of divorce, echoing God's original design for relationships. ### The Kingdom of Heaven and Childlikeness The theme of entering the #KingdomofHeaven is highlighted as Jesus emphasizes the importance of childlike humility and faith. This concept resonates with previous teachings in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 18]], where Jesus describes the greatness in the kingdom as being associated with humility and dependence, much like a child. It establishes a contrast with worldly measures of greatness and status, inviting believers to adopt a posture of trust and openness. ### Wealth and Eternal Life Jesus’ interaction with the rich young ruler introduces the theme of wealth and its potential hindrance to gaining eternal life. This theme connects to warnings about riches found in [[Proverbs/Proverbs Chapter 28|Proverbs 28:20]] and Jesus’ earlier teachings in [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 6]], where He instructs on the dangers of amassing earthly treasures. The difficulty for the wealthy to enter the Kingdom of Heaven serves as a call to prioritize spiritual riches over material wealth. ### Sacrifice and Reward The theme of sacrifice and reward is evident when Jesus speaks to His disciples about the cost of following Him and the rewards that come with it. This connects to the broader biblical narrative of sacrificial living for God's purposes, seen in the lives of figures like [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 22|Abraham]] and [[Hebrews/Hebrews Chapter 11|Moses]], who forsook earthly treasures for divine promises. Jesus’ assurance of future rewards for those who leave everything to follow Him reinforces the eternal perspective that believers are called to embrace. ### The Reversal of Expectations Jesus concludes with the statement that "many who are first will be last, and the last first," echoing a recurring biblical theme of God's surprising reversal of human expectations. This theme is present throughout Scripture, seen in the elevation of the humble and the humbling of the proud, as in the story of [[1 Samuel/1 Samuel Chapter 16|David's anointing]] and [[Luke/Luke Chapter 1|Mary's Magnificat]]. It challenges believers to trust in God's justice and timing, rather than worldly measures of success. ## Prophetic Fulfillments ### The Sanctity of Marriage In Matthew 19, Jesus addresses the sanctity of marriage by referring back to the creation account in [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 2|Genesis 2:24]], where it is stated that a man shall leave his father and mother and be united to his wife, and they shall become one flesh. This appeal to the original design of marriage fulfills the prophetic intention of God’s creation, emphasizing its permanence and sacredness. Jesus’ teaching aligns with the divine purpose that marriage is a covenantal relationship, intended to be lifelong and unbroken, reflecting God’s faithfulness to His people. ### The Promise of Eternal Life In the conversation with the rich young ruler, Jesus’ response about obtaining eternal life echoes the promises found in the Old Testament regarding adherence to God’s commandments as a path to life. Passages like [[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 30|Deuteronomy 30:19-20]] emphasize choosing life by loving and obeying God. Jesus’ emphasis on following Him and giving up earthly treasures for heavenly ones fulfills the prophetic call to prioritize God above all else, thus securing eternal life, which is ultimately realized through faith in Christ. ### The Inclusion of the Gentiles Jesus’ teaching about the reversal of status—where the first will be last, and the last will be first—prefigures the inclusion of the Gentiles into the kingdom of God, as prophesied in the Old Testament. Passages such as [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 49|Isaiah 49:6]] speak of God’s servant being a light to the nations, bringing salvation to the ends of the earth. This prophetic vision finds fulfillment in Jesus’ ministry, which breaks down barriers and extends God’s grace and kingdom to all people, regardless of their status or background. ### The Kingdom of Heaven Throughout Matthew 19, Jesus’ teachings and responses underscore the nature of the Kingdom of Heaven, fulfilling the prophetic expectation of a kingdom characterized by righteousness, justice, and divine order. Old Testament prophecies, such as those found in [[Isaiah/Isaiah Chapter 11|Isaiah 11:1-9]], envision a kingdom where God’s anointed rules with wisdom and faithfulness. Jesus’ instructions on marriage, wealth, and discipleship embody these kingdom principles, illustrating that the prophesied kingdom is present in and through His life and teachings. ## Verses - **Matthew 19:1** - "When Jesus had finished saying these things, he left Galilee and went down to the region of Judea east of the Jordan River." - Note: Jesus's movement from #Galilee to #Judea is significant as it marks a shift in His ministry. See also [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 4]] for His previous movements. - **Matthew 19:2** - "Large crowds followed him there, and he healed their sick." - Note: The healing ministry of Jesus is a common theme. Reference: [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 4]], [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 8]]. - **Matthew 19:3** - "Some Pharisees came and tried to trap him with this question: 'Should a man be allowed to divorce his wife for just any reason?'" - Note: The #Pharisees often tried to challenge Jesus. See also [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 22]]. - **Matthew 19:4** - "'Haven't you read the Scriptures?' Jesus replied. 'They record that from the beginning "God made them male and female."'" - Note: Jesus references Genesis, see [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 1]]. - **Matthew 19:5** - "And he said, 'This explains why a man leaves his father and mother and is joined to his wife, and the two are united into one.'" - Note: Reference to Genesis, see [[Genesis/Genesis Chapter 2]]. - **Matthew 19:6** - "Since they are no longer two but one, let no one split apart what God has joined together." - Note: The sanctity of marriage is emphasized, see also [[Ephesians/Ephesians Chapter 5]]. - **Matthew 19:7** - "'Then why did Moses say in the law that a man could give his wife a written notice of divorce and send her away?' they asked." - Note: Referring to the Mosaic Law, see [[Deuteronomy/Deuteronomy Chapter 24]]. - **Matthew 19:8** - "Jesus replied, 'Moses permitted divorce only as a concession to your hard hearts, but it was not what God had originally intended.'" - Note: The hardness of heart is a recurring theme, see also [[Mark/Mark Chapter 10]]. - **Matthew 19:9** - "And I tell you this, whoever divorces his wife and marries someone else commits adultery—unless his wife has been unfaithful." - Note: Jesus's teaching on adultery, see also [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 5]]. - **Matthew 19:10** - "Jesus’ disciples then said to him, 'If this is the case, it is better not to marry!'" - Note: The disciples' reaction to Jesus's teaching on marriage. - **Matthew 19:11** - "'Not everyone can accept this statement,' Jesus said. 'Only those whom God helps.'" - Note: The divine assistance needed to accept Jesus's teachings. - **Matthew 19:12** - "Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made eunuchs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can." - Note: The concept of celibacy for the Kingdom, see also [[1 Corinthians/1 Corinthians Chapter 7]]. - **Matthew 19:13** - "One day some parents brought their children to Jesus so he could lay his hands on them and pray for them. But the disciples scolded the parents for bothering him." - Note: The importance of children in the Kingdom, see also [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 18]]. - **Matthew 19:14** - "But Jesus said, 'Let the children come to me. Don’t stop them! For the Kingdom of Heaven belongs to those who are like these children.'" - Note: The value of childlike faith, see also [[Mark/Mark Chapter 10]]. - **Matthew 19:15** - "And he placed his hands on their heads and blessed them before he left." - Note: Jesus's blessing of the children. - **Matthew 19:16** - "Someone came to Jesus with this question: 'Teacher, what good deed must I do to have eternal life?'" - Note: Question of eternal life, see also [[Luke/Luke Chapter 18]]. - **Matthew 19:17** - "'Why ask me about what is good?' Jesus replied. 'There is only One who is good. But to answer your question—if you want to receive eternal life, keep the commandments.'" - Note: The emphasis on God's goodness, see also [[Romans/Romans Chapter 3]]. - **Matthew 19:18** - "'Which ones?' the man asked. And Jesus replied: 'You must not murder. You must not commit adultery. You must not steal. You must not testify falsely.'" - Note: Jesus lists the commandments, see [[Exodus/Exodus Chapter 20]]. - **Matthew 19:19** - "'Honor your father and mother. Love your neighbor as yourself.'" - Note: The commandments of love and honor, see also [[Leviticus/Leviticus Chapter 19]]. - **Matthew 19:20** - "'I’ve obeyed all these commandments,' the young man replied. 'What else must I do?'" - Note: The young man's claim to righteousness. - **Matthew 19:21** - "Jesus told him, 'If you want to be perfect, go and sell all your possessions and give the money to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.'" - Note: The call to discipleship and sacrifice, see also [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 16]]. - **Matthew 19:22** - "But when the young man heard this, he went away sad, for he had many possessions." - Note: The challenge of wealth, see also [[Mark/Mark Chapter 10]]. - **Matthew 19:23** - "Then Jesus said to his disciples, 'I tell you the truth, it is very hard for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of Heaven.'" - Note: The difficulty of wealth in spiritual matters. - **Matthew 19:24** - "I’ll say it again—it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich person to enter the Kingdom of God!" - Note: The metaphor of the camel and the needle, see also [[Luke/Luke Chapter 18]]. - **Matthew 19:25** - "The disciples were astounded. 'Then who in the world can be saved?' they asked." - Note: The disciples' astonishment and question of salvation. - **Matthew 19:26** - "Jesus looked at them intently and said, 'Humanly speaking, it is impossible. But with God everything is possible.'" - Note: The possibility of salvation through God, see also [[Luke/Luke Chapter 1]]. - **Matthew 19:27** - "Then Peter said to him, 'We’ve given up everything to follow you. What will we get?'" - Note: Peter's question on the reward of discipleship. - **Matthew 19:28** - "Jesus replied, 'I assure you that when the world is made new and the Son of Man sits upon his glorious throne, you who have been my followers will also sit on twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.'" - Note: The promise of future roles for the disciples. - **Matthew 19:29** - "And everyone who has given up houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or property, for my sake, will receive a hundred times as much in return and will inherit eternal life." - Note: The reward for sacrifices made for Jesus, see also [[Mark/Mark Chapter 10]]. - **Matthew 19:30** - "But many who are the greatest now will be least important then, and those who seem least important now will be the greatest then." - Note: The reversal of status in the Kingdom of Heaven, see also [[Matthew/Matthew Chapter 20]].