Summary
Matthew 19:1–12 – Teaching on Divorce
What happens:
Jesus leaves Galilee and goes to Judea, where Pharisees ask him if it is lawful for a man to divorce his wife for any reason. He replies that marriage is God’s design from creation: a man and woman become one flesh, and what God has joined no one should separate. When they ask why Moses permitted divorce, he explains it was because of hard hearts, but from the beginning it was not so. He adds that anyone who divorces and marries another commits adultery, except for sexual immorality. His disciples say it is better not to marry, and Jesus acknowledges that some choose celibacy for the kingdom’s sake, but not everyone can accept it.
What it means:
Jesus upholds the sacred covenant of marriage, calling couples to reflect God’s faithfulness. He acknowledges human weakness yet points back to God’s original intention. The call to celibacy for kingdom work highlights different gifts within the body of Christ.
Matthew 19:13–15 – Jesus Blesses Little Children
What happens:
People bring little children to Jesus for him to place his hands on them and pray, but the disciples rebuke them. Jesus says to let the children come and not hinder them, for the kingdom of heaven belongs to such as these. He places his hands on them and then goes on his way.
What it means:
Childlike receptivity—trust, dependence, and humility—is essential for entering the kingdom. Jesus honors the lowly and instructs his followers to do the same.
Matthew 19:16–30 – The Rich Young Ruler
What happens:
A man asks Jesus what good deed will lead to eternal life. Jesus tells him to keep the commandments, which he claims to have done. Jesus then instructs him to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow him. The man leaves sorrowful because of his wealth. Jesus tells his disciples that it is hard for the rich to enter the kingdom but that with God all things are possible. Peter reminds Jesus that they have left everything to follow him, and Jesus promises that anyone who has given up houses, family, or fields for his sake will receive a hundredfold and inherit eternal life. He concludes that many who are first will be last, and the last first.
What it means:
Jesus calls for wholehearted surrender, showing that attachment to wealth hinders full devotion. The promise of abundant reward underscores God’s grace, making impossible obedience possible. Kingdom values overturn worldly rankings.
Application
- Honor God’s design for marriage by pursuing faithfulness and understanding the heart behind his commands
- Welcome and value children as exemplars of the humility and trust required to receive God’s kingdom
- Examine attachments to material possessions and be willing to sacrifice for the sake of following Jesus
- Trust that God’s power enables radical obedience and rewards sacrificial commitment
- Embrace the upside-down values of the kingdom, where true greatness is found in humble service and dependence on God
