Teaching on Marriage and Divorce (Matthew 19:1-12)
The Pharisees’ Test
As Jesus moves into the region of Judea beyond the Jordan, He is approached by Pharisees who test Him with a question about the legality of divorce “for any and every reason.” Jesus responds by emphasizing the sanctity of marriage from creation, quoting Genesis: “Therefore what God has joined together, let no one separate” (Matthew 19:4-6).
Jesus’ Clarification on Divorce
He addresses the issue of Moses’ allowance for divorce due to hardness of heart, clarifying that it was not the ideal from the beginning. Jesus states that divorce should only occur in cases of sexual immorality and implies that remarriage after divorce, except in such cases, constitutes adultery (Matthew 19:7-9).
Disciples’ Reaction
The disciples react by suggesting that it might be better not to marry at all if such strict conditions apply. Jesus acknowledges that not everyone can accept this teaching, referring to those who have renounced marriage “for the sake of the kingdom of heaven” (Matthew 19:10-12).
Jesus Blesses the Children (Matthew 19:13-15)
Welcoming the Little Ones
Children are brought to Jesus for Him to place His hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuke those who brought them. Jesus, however, says, “Let the little children come to me, and do not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these,” underscoring the value of childlike receptivity and innocence in the kingdom of God (Matthew 19:13-14).
Blessing the Children
Jesus blesses the children, demonstrating God’s love for all, regardless of age or status, and highlighting the inclusivity of His ministry (Matthew 19:15).
The Rich Young Man (Matthew 19:16-30)
The Question of Eternal Life
A rich young man approaches Jesus, asking what he must do to gain eternal life. Jesus first points him to the commandments, emphasizing the need to follow them. When the young man asserts he has kept all the commandments from his youth, he asks what he still lacks (Matthew 19:16-20).
The Call to Radical Discipleship
Jesus tells him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow me.” The young man goes away sad, unable to give up his great wealth (Matthew 19:21-22).
Teachings on Wealth
Jesus comments on the difficulty for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven, likening it to a camel going through the eye of a needle. This astonishes the disciples, leading them to question who then can be saved. Jesus assures them that with God, all things are possible, emphasizing the divine enablement necessary for salvation (Matthew 19:23-26).
Rewards of Following Jesus
Peter points out that the disciples have left everything to follow Him. Jesus promises that anyone who has left houses, family, or fields for His sake will receive a hundred times as much and will inherit eternal life, but also adds that many who are first will be last, and the last first, hinting at the unexpected nature of God’s kingdom (Matthew 19:27-30).
Theological Significance
Connection to Jesus Christ
Matthew 19 showcases Jesus’ authoritative teaching on key aspects of life and faith, including marriage, wealth, and the requirements of discipleship. His responses to the Pharisees, the children, and the rich young man illustrate His role as the definitive interpreter of God’s law and the embodiment of God’s kingdom values.
God’s Love for the World
This chapter demonstrates God’s encompassing love through Jesus’ invitation to all segments of society—from the vulnerable children to the wealthy young ruler—offering a vision of a kingdom based on spiritual rather than worldly values.
Contemporary Relevance
Matthew 19 remains profoundly relevant today as it challenges modern attitudes towards marriage, wealth, and priorities. It encourages a reassessment of personal commitments and the pursuit of a life that prioritizes eternal values over temporal gains, advocating for a sacrificial lifestyle that mirrors Jesus’ call to radical discipleship.
Conclusion
Matthew 19 provides deep insights into Jesus’ teachings that confront and comfort, challenge and invite. It calls believers to consider the depth of their commitment to following Jesus and to reassess their lives in light of the values of the kingdom of heaven, emphasizing a return to God’s original intentions for humanity and offering guidance on living a life aligned with divine principles.