New Testament
Matthew 19:25
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When the disciples heard this, they were greatly astonished and asked, "Who then can be saved?"
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When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?
What Matthew 19:25 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, the disciples react with shock and disbelief to Jesus' teaching about the difficulty of a rich person entering the kingdom of heaven. They are astonished because they believed that wealth was a sign of God's blessing, and if the wealthy could not be saved, then who could? This highlights their misunderstanding of salvation, which is not based on human merit or status but on faith in God. Jesus uses this moment to teach them about the nature of salvation, emphasizing that it is impossible for humans to achieve on their own, but with God, all things are possible. The disciples' question reflects a common concern about the criteria for salvation and the hope that exists even for those who seem far from God. This moment serves as a pivotal teaching point about reliance on God's grace rather than personal achievements or wealth.
How to apply Matthew 19:25 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our own understanding of salvation. It reminds us that no one is beyond God's reach, regardless of their status or wealth. We should focus on faith and trust in God's grace rather than our own efforts or possessions.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16–30)
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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.
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Capernaum
Jesus' home base by the Sea of Galilee, and the town where Peter lived.
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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 19:25 teach about wealth and salvation?
Matthew 19:25 reveals the disciples' astonishment at Jesus' teaching that it is difficult for a rich person to enter the kingdom of heaven. This challenges the common belief that wealth indicates God's favor. The verse emphasizes that salvation is not based on material possessions or human merit, but rather on faith in God. It teaches that reliance on wealth can hinder spiritual growth and understanding of God's grace.
Why were the disciples astonished in Matthew 19:25?
The disciples were astonished because they believed that wealth was a sign of God's blessing and favor. When Jesus stated that it is hard for the rich to be saved, it contradicted their understanding of how God's kingdom operates. Their reaction highlights their struggle to grasp the true nature of salvation, which is accessible to all, regardless of their social or economic status.
What is the significance of the question 'Who then can be saved?' in Matthew 19:25?
The question 'Who then can be saved?' reflects the disciples' deep concern and confusion regarding the criteria for salvation. It underscores the idea that if the wealthy, who were thought to be blessed by God, cannot be saved, then it raises doubts about anyone's ability to attain salvation. This moment serves as a critical teaching point about the necessity of faith and God's grace, emphasizing that salvation is possible for everyone through God's power.
How does Matthew 19:25 relate to the concept of grace?
Matthew 19:25 highlights the concept of grace by illustrating that salvation cannot be earned through wealth or personal achievements. Jesus' teaching indicates that human efforts are insufficient for salvation, but with God, all things are possible. This reinforces the idea that grace is a gift from God, available to all who believe, regardless of their background or status.
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