Matthew 19:21 Meaning and Explanation
“Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect, go and sell that thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come and follow me.”
King James Version (KJV)
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Read Full Chapter →Jesus calls the young man to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him.
What Does Matthew 19:21 Mean?
Jesus answers the young man's longing with a call that goes to the heart of his life. "If thou wilt be perfect," that is, complete and whole, sell what you have, give to the poor, and come follow Me. The promise attached is great: "treasure in heaven." Jesus names the one thing the young man's wealth has quietly claimed.
This is not a price tag on salvation but a summons to surrender what holds the heart. The young man's riches stood where God should stand, and Jesus lovingly calls him to let them go and gain something far greater. "Come and follow me" is the true invitation; the rest clears the way. Christ asks for first place, and offers Himself in return, a treasure that moth and rust cannot touch.
Matthew 19:21 in the Original Language
teleios (τέλειος), 'perfect' -- whole, complete, brought to the fullness of what one is meant to be.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 19:21
What does Matthew 19:21 mean?
Jesus calls the young man to sell his possessions, give to the poor, and follow Him.