Matthew 19:21

Afrikaans 1933/1953

Jesus antwoord hom: As jy volmaak wil wees, gaan verkoop jou goed en gee dit aan die armes, en jy sal 'n skat in die hemel hê; en kom hier, volg My.

What Does This Mean?

In Matthew 19:21, Jesus tells a rich man that to be perfect, he should sell his possessions and give the money to the poor. Then, he is invited to follow Jesus. This shows how giving up material things can lead to spiritual fulfillment.

Explained for Children

Imagine you have your favorite toy and someone asks you to share it with others who don't have toys. By sharing, you make other kids happy and also get a special treat from Jesus! It's like trading your small toy for a bigger reward in heaven.

Historical Background

This verse is part of the Gospel of Matthew, written by Matthew (also known as Levi), one of Jesus' disciples, around AD 80-90. The audience was mainly Jewish Christians and Gentiles who were learning about Jesus' teachings. In this cultural setting, wealth often symbolized God's favor, but Jesus challenges that notion.

Living It Out Today

Consider a modern scenario where someone is struggling with their identity tied to their high-paying job or expensive car. This verse reminds us that true fulfillment might come from sharing resources and focusing on spiritual growth rather than material success.

Topics

• giving
• poverty
• wealth
• spiritual perfection
• discipleship
• sacrifice

Related Verses

• Mark 10:21
• Luke 18:22
• Acts 5:4
• Ephesians 4:28
• Proverbs 3:9

Frequently Asked Questions

Does this verse mean I need to give away all my possessions?

This verse is more about the willingness to let go of material things for a greater purpose. It's not a blanket rule but an invitation to prioritize spiritual values over wealth.

What does it mean to have treasure in heaven according to Matthew 19:21?

Having treasure in heaven refers to the spiritual reward for acts of generosity. It suggests that giving to the poor is an investment in one's eternal well-being.

How can this verse guide my career choices or financial decisions?

This verse encourages considering how your financial and career decisions impact others and align with spiritual values, not just personal gain. It promotes a balanced view where wealth is used to serve others.