New Testament
Matthew 19:1
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When Jesus finished teaching these things, he left Galilee and traveled to the region of Judea on the other side of the Jordan River.
Compare translations
And it came to pass, that when Jesus had finished these sayings, he departed from Galilee, and came into the coasts of Judaea beyond Jordan;
What Matthew 19:1 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, we see a transition in Jesus' ministry as he moves from Galilee to Judea. This journey signifies a shift in focus, as he prepares to confront the challenges and teachings that await him in Jerusalem. The phrase 'finished teaching these things' indicates that Jesus has completed a significant portion of his teachings, likely referring to his instructions on various aspects of life and faith. By traveling to Judea, he is also fulfilling his mission to reach different regions and people. The mention of the Jordan River highlights the geographical context, emphasizing the importance of this area in Jewish history and culture. This movement is not just physical; it symbolizes Jesus' commitment to his purpose and the unfolding of events leading to his crucifixion. It sets the stage for the interactions and teachings that will follow in the subsequent chapters, showcasing his dedication to spreading the message of the Kingdom of God.
How to apply Matthew 19:1 to your life
This verse encourages us to recognize the importance of movement and change in our spiritual journeys. Just as Jesus moved to fulfill his mission, we too should be open to new directions in our lives that align with our purpose and calling. Embrace transitions as opportunities for growth.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Explore more of the Bible
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: An Angel Visits Mary (Luke 1:26–38)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: zeevveez, via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC BY 2.0. Source. Location: Capernaum, on the northern shore of the Sea of Galilee. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 19:1
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 19:1
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 19:1 signify in Jesus' ministry?
Matthew 19:1 marks a pivotal moment in Jesus' ministry as he transitions from Galilee to Judea. This movement signifies a shift in focus and prepares him for the challenges he will face in Jerusalem. It highlights the importance of geographical context in his teachings and mission, illustrating his commitment to reaching diverse audiences and fulfilling his purpose.
Why is the Jordan River mentioned in this verse?
The Jordan River is mentioned in Matthew 19:1 to provide geographical context for Jesus' journey. It serves as a significant landmark in Jewish history and culture, symbolizing the boundary between different regions. This mention emphasizes the importance of the area in the narrative of Jesus' ministry and the fulfillment of his mission to spread the message of the Kingdom of God.
What can we learn from Jesus' journey in Matthew 19:1?
Jesus' journey in Matthew 19:1 teaches us about the importance of embracing change and transitions in our own lives. Just as Jesus moved to fulfill his mission, we should be open to new directions that align with our purpose. This verse encourages us to view transitions as opportunities for growth and to remain committed to our spiritual journeys.
How does Matthew 19:1 relate to the teachings of Jesus?
In Matthew 19:1, the phrase 'finished teaching these things' indicates that Jesus has completed a significant portion of his teachings. This transition sets the stage for the interactions and teachings that will follow in subsequent chapters, emphasizing the continuity of his message and the importance of his teachings in the context of his journey to Jerusalem.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.