Matthew 19:12
Afrikaans DB 2006 (Die Boodskap)
Daar is byvoorbeeld mense wat nie in staat is om te trou nie omdat hulle weens aangebore liggaamlike gebreke nie hulle normale seksuele funksies kan vervul nie. Daar is ook mans wat ontman is en nie in staat is om kinders te hê nie. En dan is daar ook mense wat self besluit het dat hulle nie wil trou nie sodat hulle al hulle tyd en energie aan God se diens kan wy. As julle egter kans sien om my voorskrifte oor die huwelik uit te voer, trou dan!”
What Does This Mean?
In this verse, Jesus explains three types of eunuchs: those born that way, those made by others, and those who choose it for the kingdom of heaven. He suggests not everyone can or should understand or follow this teaching.
Explained for Children
Imagine some kids are naturally quiet, some become quiet because of bullying, and some choose to be quiet so they can listen better to learn about God. Jesus says that only those who can handle it should think deeply about these choices.
Historical Background
Matthew wrote this verse around AD 80-90 for a primarily Jewish-Christian audience. The concept of eunuchs was well-known in ancient cultures, often associated with service or sacrifice for religious or royal purposes.
Living It Out Today
Today, this might apply to someone choosing celibacy for ministry or dedicating their life fully to serving others rather than starting a family. It's about making significant personal sacrifices for one’s faith.
Topics
celibacysacrificededicationpersonal choicekingdom of heaven
Related Verses
1 Corinthians 7:26-35Mark 9:43-48Acts 18:25Genesis 39:7-20Luke 20:27-38
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are the eunuchs mentioned in this verse?
The eunuchs here refer to those born without reproductive capabilities, those who were castrated by others, and those who choose a celibate lifestyle for spiritual reasons.
What does it mean to make oneself a 'eunuch' for the kingdom of heaven?
It means choosing celibacy or making significant personal sacrifices as a way of fully dedicating one’s life to serving God and spreading His word, much like monks or nuns do in modern times.
How should we interpret Jesus' statement about who can receive this?
Jesus implies that not everyone is capable or called to such a level of sacrifice. It's a matter of individual discernment and calling within one’s faith journey.
What is the significance of this verse in understanding Christian celibacy?
This verse supports the idea that some Christians may choose celibacy as a form of spiritual devotion, highlighting it as a personal choice rather than a universal requirement.