New Testament
Matthew 8:19
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 scribe, who is a learned teacher of the law, approaches Jesus and expresses his desire to follow Him anywhere.
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
A scribe came up to him and said, "Teacher, I'll follow you wherever you go."
And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
Verse Analysis
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, a scribe, who is a learned teacher of the law, approaches Jesus and expresses his desire to follow Him anywhere. This statement reflects the scribe's recognition of Jesus as a significant teacher and leader. However, it also raises questions about the true cost of discipleship. Jesus often taught that following Him requires sacrifice and commitment, which may not be immediately apparent to those who are drawn to His teachings. The scribe's eagerness to follow suggests a willingness to learn, but Jesus' response in subsequent verses indicates that following Him may lead to hardships and uncertainty. This interaction highlights the importance of understanding what it truly means to be a disciple of Christ, as it involves more than just admiration; it requires a readiness to embrace the challenges that come with faith.
Related Bible verses
How to apply Matthew 8:19 to your life
This verse challenges us to consider our own commitment to following Jesus. Are we willing to follow Him wherever He leads, even when it gets difficult? True discipleship requires us to be ready for challenges and to prioritize our faith above comfort and convenience.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 8:19 teach about discipleship?
Matthew 8:19 illustrates the initial enthusiasm of a scribe who desires to follow Jesus. This highlights that true discipleship goes beyond mere admiration; it requires a deep commitment and readiness to face challenges. Jesus' response emphasizes that following Him may involve sacrifices and uncertainties, prompting us to reflect on our own willingness to embrace the cost of discipleship.
Why did the scribe want to follow Jesus?
The scribe approached Jesus, recognizing Him as a significant teacher and leader. His eagerness to follow indicates a desire for spiritual growth and understanding. However, this interaction also serves as a reminder that following Jesus is not just about admiration; it requires a commitment to face the hardships that may come with being a disciple.
What is the cost of following Jesus according to this verse?
Matthew 8:19 suggests that following Jesus involves more than just a verbal commitment; it requires a willingness to endure hardships and sacrifices. Jesus often spoke about the challenges of discipleship, indicating that those who choose to follow Him must be prepared to prioritize their faith over comfort and convenience.
How can we apply Matthew 8:19 to our lives today?
This verse encourages us to evaluate our commitment to following Jesus. It challenges us to consider whether we are ready to follow Him wherever He leads, especially during difficult times. True discipleship means prioritizing our faith and being prepared for the challenges that come with it, reminding us to stay steadfast in our journey with Christ.
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