New Testament
Matthew 19:26
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Jesus looked at them and said, "For people, this is impossible. But with God, all things are possible."
Compare translations
But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.
What Matthew 19:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the limitations of human ability when faced with challenges. He acknowledges that there are situations in life that seem impossible for people to overcome. However, He contrasts this by affirming that with God, nothing is beyond reach. This statement serves as a powerful reminder of God's omnipotence and His ability to intervene in human affairs. It encourages believers to trust in God's power rather than relying solely on their own strength. The context of this verse follows a discussion about the difficulty of the rich entering the kingdom of heaven, illustrating that salvation and transformation are ultimately acts of God, not human effort. This teaching invites individuals to recognize their dependence on divine assistance in all aspects of life, reinforcing the idea that faith in God can lead to miraculous outcomes.
How to apply Matthew 19:26 to your life
When facing challenges that seem insurmountable, remember that God can make the impossible possible. Trust in His power and seek His guidance through prayer. This perspective can transform your approach to difficulties, encouraging resilience and hope.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary · Matthew 19:26 Meaning
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: The Rich Young Ruler (Matthew 19:16–30)
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 19:26
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Fuller verse explanations
Explore what a verse means, what was happening around it, and how it connects to other Bible passages.
Plain Meaning
The disciples asked who could be saved. Jesus answers directly: no person can save themselves. It is not just hard — it is impossible for people. But God can do it. What is out of reach for people is not out of reach for God.
Read It in Context
Jesus had just said it is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle than for a rich man to enter God's kingdom. The disciples were shocked and asked who could be saved at all. Verse 26 is Jesus' answer to that question.
The full Clear view adds what to notice, common misreadings, and the passage that best explains this one — for Matthew 19:26 and any verse in the Bible.
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 19:26
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 19:26 mean in simple terms?
Matthew 19:26 highlights the contrast between human limitations and God's limitless power. Jesus points out that while certain things may seem impossible for people, with God, all things are achievable. This verse reassures believers that they can rely on God's strength to overcome challenges that appear insurmountable.
How can I apply Matthew 19:26 in my life?
To apply Matthew 19:26, start by identifying areas in your life where you feel overwhelmed or powerless. Instead of relying solely on your own abilities, turn to God in prayer, asking for His guidance and strength. Trust that He can intervene and make a way where you see none. This mindset can foster resilience and hope during difficult times.
What is the context of Matthew 19:26?
Matthew 19:26 follows a conversation Jesus had about the difficulty for the rich to enter the kingdom of heaven. His disciples were astonished and questioned who could be saved. Jesus' response emphasizes that salvation is not based on human effort but is a divine act, reinforcing the idea that only God can transform lives and make the impossible possible.
Does Matthew 19:26 apply to everyday problems?
Yes, Matthew 19:26 applies to everyday problems by reminding us that no challenge is too great for God. Whether facing personal struggles, health issues, or financial difficulties, this verse encourages believers to trust in God's ability to help them through tough situations. It invites you to seek divine assistance in all aspects of life.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.