What does Matthew 19:21 mean?

Explanation

Matthew 19:21 is a verse where Jesus Christ addresses a rich young man who has approached Him to ask about what he must do to inherit eternal life.

Jesus tells him to keep the commandments, to which the man replies that he has kept them from his youth.

Seeking perfection, he then asks Jesus what he still lacks.

In response, Jesus tells him to sell his possessions, give the proceeds to the poor to attain treasure in heaven, and then follow Him.

This verse embodies a literal call for sacrificial giving and a deeper message of detachment from material wealth to fully commit to the spiritual journey in following Christ.

The exchange emphasizes the idea that spiritual riches outweigh temporal wealth and that discipleship may require significant personal sacrifice.

Historical Context

When Matthew 19:21 was written, Jewish society was very much structured around adherence to the Law of Moses and the teachings of the prophets. Wealth was often seen as a sign of God's favor.

However, Jesus challenged these notions by suggesting that wealth could be a hindrance to spiritual growth and entrance into the kingdom of God.

The young man's demeanor indicates that he believed he was following the law scrupulously, yet Jesus pointed to something greater than legalistic righteousness, total commitment to God, often requiring radical choices.

Theological Insights

Theologically, this verse has sparked diverse insights.

Some interpret it as a call to literal poverty as a means of discipleship.

Others view it as an illustration of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material wealth, suggesting that Jesus' command was specific to this individual who was overly attached to his wealth.

Another insight is that it reflects a universal challenge to all Christians to consider what might be preventing them from complete devotion to Jesus.

As such, the focus is often on the heart's orientation rather than on the literal action of selling all possessions.

Practical Applications

In practical terms, Matthew 19:21 can inspire acts of charity and more equitable sharing of resources. It encourages believers to evaluate their possessions and to consider how these impact their spiritual lives.

Many faith communities take this as an incentive to live more simply, to support those in need, and to store up 'treasures in heaven' through acts of kindness and love rather than accumulating wealth for its own sake.

Cross-References

• Luke 12:33-34: "Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth."
• Luke 18:22: "[...] sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me."
• Mark 10:21: "Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me."

Language Study

Key words in the original Greek text of Matthew 19:21 include:

• "teleios" (τέλειος): Often translated as "perfect," this word can imply complete, mature, or having reached its end.
• "pōleison" (πώλησον): Meaning "sell," indicating the action of selling or giving up possessions.
• "ptōchois" (πτωχοῖς): Refers to "the poor," highlighting those who are financially destitute or lacking in resources.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

In comparison to Ancient Near Eastern beliefs, the call to sell possessions and give to the poor was quite radical.

Many ancient religions placed significant value on wealth and material offerings to the gods.

In contrast, Jesus' teaching pointed to a religious path focussed not on material wealth but on loving action and spiritual devotion.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientific perspectives may not directly align with this verse, as it deals primarily with ethical and spiritual concepts rather than empirical observations.

However, psychological studies on generosity and happiness may lend some support to the idea that giving to others can increase one’s own sense of wellbeing, which could be seen as a modern reflection of storing up 'treasure in heaven.'

Commentaries

Commentators have much to say about this verse.

For instance, the Expositor's Greek Testament points out the personal nature of Jesus' instruction to the young man, indicating that the commandments, while universally applicable, did not address the man's specific spiritual obstacle, his wealth.

John Calvin comments that through this exchange, Jesus corrects the common but mistaken notion that external compliance with the law is equivalent to true righteousness.

Matthew Henry expands on the idea of a heavenly treasure, suggesting that by doing good with our wealth, we make it truly ours in heaven.

Each analysis explores a different facet of the fundamental call to radical discipleship.