Matthew 19:26- “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘With man this is impossible, but with God all things are possible.'”
An Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus addresses the disciples’ astonishment after explaining how difficult it is for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. When the disciples ask, “Who then can be saved?” (Matthew 19:25), Jesus responds by affirming that salvation is impossible through human effort but entirely possible through God’s power and grace.
Jesus’ statement highlights the central truth of the gospel: salvation is a gift from God, not something we can achieve on our own. No amount of wealth, status, or good works can secure eternal life. Only God, in His infinite power and mercy, can bridge the gap between sinful humanity and His perfect holiness.
Historical Context
In the cultural context of Jesus’ time, wealth was often viewed as a sign of God’s blessing and favor. The idea that riches could be a hindrance to salvation was shocking to the disciples. Their question, “Who then can be saved?” reflected their assumption that if the wealthy, who appeared to have an advantage, faced difficulty entering God’s kingdom, salvation must be unattainable.
Jesus’ response flips the cultural perspective, showing that salvation is not based on external factors like wealth or status but on God’s initiative. His statement would have challenged the disciples to rethink their understanding of how God’s kingdom works.
Theological Implications
This verse underscores the doctrine of grace: salvation is not something humans can achieve; it is entirely the work of God. Our efforts, no matter how sincere, fall short of God’s perfect standard. Only His power can make the impossible—reconciling sinners to a holy God—possible.
It also highlights God’s sovereignty and omnipotence. The phrase “with God all things are possible” reminds us that nothing is beyond God’s ability. He can overcome any obstacle, including the barriers created by sin, to accomplish His purposes.
Literary Analysis
The contrast between “with man this is impossible” and “with God all things are possible” creates a powerful tension. It emphasizes the insufficiency of human effort while magnifying God’s unlimited power. The phrase “Jesus looked at them” adds a personal touch, showing that He addressed their confusion with compassion and clarity.
This verse serves as a climactic moment in the narrative, answering the disciples’ question about salvation and reinforcing the theme that God’s kingdom operates on principles that often defy human understanding.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Ephesians 2:8-9 – Salvation is by grace through faith, not by works, so no one can boast.
- Romans 8:3-4 – God did what the law, weakened by the flesh, could not do through Jesus Christ.
- Genesis 18:14 – God’s ability to do the impossible is demonstrated in His promise to Abraham and Sarah.
- Jeremiah 32:17 – A declaration of God’s omnipotence: “Nothing is too hard for you.”
- Luke 1:37 – “For no word from God will ever fail,” reinforcing the idea that God can do the impossible.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder to depend entirely on God for salvation and every aspect of life. It challenges us to abandon the idea that we can earn our way into God’s favor through good deeds or personal effort. Instead, it calls us to trust in His power and grace.
This verse also encourages us to have faith in God’s ability to work in situations that seem hopeless. Whether we face personal struggles, relational challenges, or daunting obstacles, we can take comfort in knowing that “with God all things are possible.”
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is demonstrated in His willingness to make the impossible possible for us. While we are incapable of saving ourselves, He provides a way through Jesus Christ. His love breaks through the barriers of sin and opens the door to eternal life.
This verse also reflects God’s desire for all people to come to Him. His power is not limited by our weaknesses, and His grace is sufficient to reach even the most broken and undeserving.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of this verse. Through His life, death, and resurrection, God accomplishes what humanity could never do: reconciling us to Himself and offering the gift of eternal life. Jesus is the embodiment of God’s power and grace, making salvation possible for all who believe.
Jesus’ response to the disciples points to the heart of the gospel: salvation depends not on what we can do but on what God has done through Christ. By trusting in Him, we experience the transformative power that makes the impossible possible.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse challenge your understanding of salvation and human effort?
- In what areas of your life are you tempted to rely on your own strength instead of trusting in God’s power?
- How can this verse encourage you to pray with faith in God’s ability to do the impossible?
- What does this verse teach you about God’s grace and love for humanity?
- How can you share the message of God’s power and grace with others who feel overwhelmed by their own limitations?