Kingdom Priorities in Life and Relationships

Before You Study

Read This First

Matthew 19 follows Jesus' extensive teachings on the kingdom of heaven in chapters 5-7 and His growing ministry in Galilee. As Jesus moves beyond Galilee into Judea, He faces new challenges from religious leaders and crowds eager to hear His words. The chapter highlights key covenant truths about marriage rooted in creation, exposing the hardness of human hearts that led to divorce allowances. It also introduces Jesus' concern for children and the spiritual dangers of wealth, setting the stage for understanding true kingdom values. This context helps us grasp how Jesus redefines relationships and priorities under God's reign.

What You'll Learn

• How Jesus affirms marriage as a divine union designed from creation, emphasizing its permanence and sacredness.
• Why Moses permitted divorce due to human hardness of heart, contrasting it with God's original intent for marriage.
• The significance of Jesus welcoming children as examples of those who belong to the kingdom of heaven.
• The spiritual challenges wealth poses to entering God's kingdom and the necessity of trusting God above possessions.
• The cost and reward of following Jesus, including forsaking earthly ties for eternal inheritance.
• How Jesus promises authority and blessing to His followers in the coming kingdom age.

Jesus teaches that God's kingdom demands wholehearted commitment in marriage, discipleship, and trust in Him above all else.

Bible Translation Note: All Scripture on this page is quoted from the King James Version (KJV) and presented in full without alteration.

Matthew 19:1 And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan;

Matthew 19:2 And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there.

Matthew 19:3 The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?

Matthew 19:4 And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,

Matthew 19:5 And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?

Matthew 19:6 Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Matthew 19:7 They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?

Matthew 19:8 He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.

Matthew 19:9 And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.

Matthew 19:10 His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.

Matthew 19:11 But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.

Matthew 19:12 For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

Matthew 19:13 Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

Matthew 19:14 But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 19:15 And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.

Matthew 19:16 And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

Matthew 19:17 And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

Matthew 19:18 He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,

Matthew 19:19 Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Matthew 19:20 The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

Matthew 19:21 Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.

Matthew 19:22 But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

Matthew 19:23 Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 19:24 And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Matthew 19:25 When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?

Matthew 19:26 But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Matthew 19:27 Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?

Matthew 19:28 And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Matthew 19:29 And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.

Matthew 19:30 But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

Matthew 19:1

And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan;

Study: This verse marks a geographical and ministry transition as Jesus leaves Galilee and enters Judea beyond Jordan, signaling a new phase in His mission where He encounters different audiences and challenges. The movement also fulfills prophetic patterns of ministry expansion, showing God's providence in Jesus' journey.

Matthew 19:2

And great multitudes followed him; and he healed them there.

Study: The great multitudes following Jesus here reflect His growing popularity and the people's hunger for healing and teaching. Jesus' healing ministry demonstrates God's compassion and power, affirming His authority and the in-breaking of the kingdom of heaven.

Matthew 19:3

The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?

Study: The Pharisees' question about divorce is a testing attempt to trap Jesus on Mosaic law interpretation. Their focus on 'every cause' reveals the lax attitudes toward divorce in Jewish culture, setting the stage for Jesus to clarify God's original intent for marriage.

Matthew 19:4

And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female,

Study: Jesus redirects the Pharisees to the creation account, emphasizing that marriage was established by God as male and female from the beginning. This appeal to Genesis underscores the permanence and divine origin of marriage, contrasting with human traditions.

Matthew 19:5

And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh?

Study: Quoting Genesis, Jesus highlights the leaving and cleaving principle, showing marriage as a new, primary family unit ordained by God. This covenantal bond is foundational for understanding marriage's spiritual and social significance.

Matthew 19:6

Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Study: Jesus declares that marriage creates one flesh, a profound unity that God has joined and no human should separate. This statement elevates marriage beyond a contract to a sacred covenant reflecting God's design and authority.

Matthew 19:7

They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away?

Study: The Pharisees challenge Jesus by citing Moses' allowance of divorce, revealing their reliance on legal loopholes rather than God's ideal. This question presses Jesus to explain the tension between law and heart transformation.

Matthew 19:8

He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so.

Study: Jesus explains that Moses permitted divorce due to human hardness of heart, showing God's accommodation to human sinfulness but not His original will. This highlights God's patience and the need for inner change to live by His standards.

Matthew 19:9

And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.

Study: Jesus sets a strict standard for divorce, permitting it only in cases of sexual immorality, linking remarriage after divorce to adultery. This teaching protects the sanctity of marriage and calls for faithfulness, reflecting God's holiness.

Matthew 19:10

His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry.

Study: The disciples' reaction reveals the difficulty of Jesus' teaching on marriage permanence, prompting reflection on the cost of obedience. Their response shows how radical Jesus' standards were compared to cultural norms.

Matthew 19:11

But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given.

Study: Jesus acknowledges that not everyone can accept His teaching on marriage and celibacy, indicating that such commitment is a special calling. This shows God's sovereignty in granting grace for difficult obedience.

Matthew 19:12

For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

Study: Jesus describes three types of eunuchs—natural, man-made, and self-chosen for kingdom purposes—illustrating different ways people live celibate lives for God's service. This teaching broadens understanding of devotion and sacrifice in the kingdom.

Matthew 19:13

Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them.

Study: Bringing children to Jesus despite the disciples' rebuke highlights the cultural undervaluing of children and Jesus' countercultural embrace of them. This sets up a teaching on the kingdom's openness to the humble and dependent.

Matthew 19:14

But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.

Study: Jesus insists that children must be allowed to come to Him, identifying them as examples of those who belong to the kingdom of heaven. This reveals God's heart for the vulnerable and the nature of true faith.

Matthew 19:15

And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.

Study: By laying hands on the children and departing, Jesus blesses them, affirming their value and inclusion in His ministry. This act symbolizes God's acceptance and the transmission of grace.

Matthew 19:16

And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

Study: The approach of the rich young man introduces a personal challenge about eternal life, reflecting common human concerns about goodness and salvation. His address of Jesus as 'Good Master' opens a dialogue on true righteousness.

Matthew 19:17

And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

Study: Jesus redirects the young man's focus from Himself to God as the only truly good one, emphasizing obedience to commandments as the path to life. This response teaches humility and the primacy of God's holiness.

Matthew 19:18

He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,

Study: Listing commandments about murder, adultery, theft, false witness, honor, and love, Jesus connects eternal life to practical obedience rooted in God's law. This shows the ethical foundation of covenant relationship.

Matthew 19:19

Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

Study: The inclusion of honoring parents and loving neighbors completes the moral framework, highlighting relational duties essential to God's covenant community. This underscores love as the fulfillment of the law.

Matthew 19:20

The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

Study: The young man's claim of lifelong obedience reveals his self-assessment and desire for assurance, setting up Jesus' deeper challenge about the cost of discipleship beyond the law.

Matthew 19:21

Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.

Study: Jesus calls the young man to perfection through radical generosity and following Him, exposing the barrier of wealth to kingdom entrance. This invitation reveals the heart's true allegiance and the treasure of heaven.

Matthew 19:22

But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

Study: The young man's sorrowful departure shows the difficulty of surrendering earthly riches, illustrating how possessions can hinder wholehearted commitment to Christ. This moment reveals the cost of discipleship.

Matthew 19:23

Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven.

Study: Jesus warns His disciples about the spiritual dangers wealth poses, emphasizing how it can obstruct entering the kingdom of heaven. This teaching challenges worldly values and calls for dependence on God.

Matthew 19:24

And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God.

Study: Using the vivid image of a camel passing through a needle's eye, Jesus illustrates the near impossibility of a rich person entering God's kingdom without divine help. This metaphor stresses God's power over human limitations.

Matthew 19:25

When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?

Study: The disciples' amazement and question about salvation express human concern over the difficulty of entering God's kingdom. Their reaction invites Jesus to clarify the role of God's grace.

Matthew 19:26

But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Study: Jesus assures that what is impossible for man is possible with God, highlighting divine sovereignty and grace in salvation. This promise encourages trust in God's power to save.

Matthew 19:27

Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?

Study: Peter's question about rewards for forsaking all to follow Jesus reveals the disciples' hope and desire for assurance in their sacrifices. This reflects the human longing for recognition and God's response.

Matthew 19:28

And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel.

Study: Jesus promises that His followers will share in His glory and authority, sitting on twelve thrones judging Israel in the regeneration. This eschatological promise affirms the future honor and responsibility of discipleship.

Matthew 19:29

And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life.

Study: Jesus assures that those who sacrifice family and possessions for His name will receive a hundredfold blessing and eternal life, encouraging faithfulness despite present losses. This promise connects earthly sacrifice with eternal reward.

Matthew 19:30

But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

Study: The concluding proverb that the first shall be last and the last first reverses worldly expectations, teaching humility and God's sovereign justice in the kingdom. This challenges pride and encourages perseverance.

Matthew 19 reveals Jesus' authoritative teaching on marriage, emphasizing its divine origin and permanence while addressing the allowance of divorce due to human hardness. He welcomes children as kingdom examples and confronts the spiritual dangers of wealth, calling for radical discipleship. The chapter highlights the cost and reward of following Jesus, promising future glory for those who forsake earthly ties. Throughout, Jesus redefines relationships and priorities according to kingdom values, inviting all to trust in God's power and grace.

Lord Jesus, help us to understand the sacredness of marriage and the value You place on faith like that of children. Teach us to surrender our attachments and trust You fully, knowing that with You all things are possible. Strengthen our commitment to follow You wholeheartedly, embracing the cost and the eternal reward. Amen.

• Pray daily for God’s grace to honor your marriage or relationships as a reflection of His covenant love.
• Read and meditate on Genesis 2:18-25 to deepen your understanding of God’s design for marriage.
• Invite a child or children to share time with you and pray for them, embracing Jesus’ heart for the little ones.
• Assess your financial priorities and practice generosity by giving to those in need this week.
• Memorize Matthew 19:6 to remind yourself of the sacredness of marriage.
• Journal about any attachments that may be hindering your full commitment to Jesus and seek His help to surrender them.
• Worship God for His power to make the impossible possible in your life and salvation.

Matthew 19 challenges believers to embrace God's original design for marriage, welcome the humble like children, and surrender wealth for kingdom priorities. Jesus calls for wholehearted discipleship, promising eternal reward and authority to those who follow Him faithfully.

Loading your Kingdom Citizen progress…

Your completed chapters are connected to your Kingdom Citizen account.

View your full progress on the Matthew Hub.

Still Studying?

Have a Question About This Chapter?

Ask a Bible question and receive a Scripture-guided study response designed to help point you back to God's Word.