New Testament
Matthew 19:22
The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English
At a Glance
In this verse, a young man approaches Jesus seeking eternal life.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
When the young man heard this, he walked away deeply sad — because he was very wealthy.
But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a young man approaches Jesus seeking eternal life. When Jesus tells him to sell his possessions and give to the poor, the young man becomes very sad and chooses to walk away instead of following Jesus. His wealth is a significant barrier to his willingness to fully commit to a life of discipleship. This moment highlights the struggle between material wealth and spiritual fulfillment. The young man's sorrow reflects the difficulty many face when asked to let go of their attachments to worldly possessions. It serves as a reminder that true discipleship may require sacrifices that challenge our priorities and values. The verse illustrates the tension between the desire for eternal life and the hold that wealth can have on an individual, emphasizing the need for a heart willing to prioritize spiritual over material wealth.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 19:22 to your life
This verse challenges us to examine our own attachments to material possessions. Are we willing to let go of what holds us back from fully following Jesus? Reflect on what sacrifices you might need to make to prioritize your spiritual life over material wealth.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 19:22 teach about wealth?
Matthew 19:22 illustrates the challenge wealth can pose to spiritual commitment. The young man's sadness upon hearing Jesus' command to sell his possessions highlights how material wealth can create barriers to fully following Christ. This verse encourages believers to reflect on their own attachments to money and possessions, reminding us that true discipleship may require sacrifices that prioritize spiritual fulfillment over material gain.
Why did the young man walk away sad?
The young man walked away sad because he was very wealthy and found it difficult to part with his possessions. Jesus' instruction to sell everything and give to the poor confronted him with a choice between his material wealth and the call to follow Jesus. His sorrow reflects the internal struggle many face when asked to let go of worldly attachments in pursuit of a deeper spiritual life.
How can I apply Matthew 19:22 to my life?
To apply Matthew 19:22, start by assessing your own relationship with material possessions. Consider what items or comforts you might be holding onto that prevent you from fully committing to your spiritual journey. Reflect on the sacrifices you may need to make to prioritize your faith over material wealth, whether that means donating to those in need or simplifying your lifestyle to focus more on spiritual growth.
What is the significance of the young man's wealth in this verse?
The young man's wealth is significant because it symbolizes the potential obstacles to spiritual commitment. His great possessions represent the allure of materialism that can distract individuals from pursuing a deeper relationship with God. This verse serves as a cautionary tale about how wealth can create a conflict between earthly desires and the call to a life of faith and service.

The Book of Matthew
Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ
The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.
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