Understanding Matthew 5:19

Matthew 5:19 states, "Whoever therefore breaks one of the least of these commandments, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven." This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus emphasizes the importance of the Law and how it should be upheld by His followers.

Context and Importance

This verse highlights several key themes regarding the relationship of believers to the commandments of God. Jesus emphasizes:

• Authority of the Law: Jesus asserts that the commandments of the Old Testament remain significant, and breaking even the smallest commandment is serious.
• Teaching Responsibility: Those who teach others have a greater responsibility, as their actions affect the understanding and behavior of their followers.
• Kingdom Status: There are distinctions in the kingdom of heaven based on adherence to God's commandments—greatness is associated with obedience and teaching others to obey.

Commentary Insights

Matthew Henry's Commentary

Matthew Henry emphasizes that Jesus is upholding the moral character of the Law. He notes that while Jesus came to fulfill the Law, He did not abolish it. Henry explains that those who disregard even the least of God's commandments set a poor example, while those who honor and teach them reflect the true heart of God's law, which aligns with the spirit of righteousness.

Albert Barnes' Notes on the Bible

Albert Barnes points out that this verse stresses the ongoing relevance of the Law for believers. He identifies that Jesus respects the Old Testament and indicates that its commandments continue to guide moral behavior. Barnes emphasizes that the idea of being "least" signifies a lack of recognition in heaven for those who neglect God's commandments and that greatness comes from obedience and effective teaching.

Adam Clarke's Commentary

Adam Clarke discusses the intricacies of obedience and the eternal consequence of teaching God’s commands. He notes that breaking the commandments is not only about action but understanding the implications of leading others astray. Clarke suggests that the "least" commandments are nonetheless vital and should not be dismissed, reflecting God's comprehensive moral law.

Cross-References for Matthew 5:19

Understanding the connections between Bible verses is critical in grasping the fullness of Scripture. Below are verses that illuminate the themes present in Matthew 5:19:

• James 2:10: “For whoever keeps the whole law and yet stumbles at just one point is guilty of breaking all of it.”
• Romans 3:31: “Do we then make void the law through faith? Certainly not! On the contrary, we establish the law.”
• Matthew 22:37-40: “Jesus said to him, ‘You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind.’ This is the first and great commandment...”
• Luke 16:17: “And it is easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for one tittle of the law to fail.”
• Exodus 20:1-17: The listing of the Ten Commandments emphasizes the enduring nature of God's moral law.
• Matthew 5:20: “For I say to you that unless your righteousness exceeds the righteousness of the scribes and Pharisees, you will by no means enter the kingdom of heaven.”
• John 14:15: “If you love Me, keep My commandments.”
• Galatians 5:14: “For all the law is fulfilled in one word, even in this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’”
• 1 John 3:4: “Whoever commits sin also commits lawlessness, and sin is lawlessness.”
• Matthew 7:21: “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ shall enter the kingdom of heaven, but he who does the will of My Father in heaven.”

Thematic Connections

In analyzing Matthew 5:19 through a comparative Bible verse analysis, several themes emerge:

• Authority of Jesus: Establishes His authority to interpret the Law.
• Unity of Scripture: Highlights the connections between Old Testament commandments and New Testament teachings.
• Faith and Works: Discusses the importance of action that aligns with faith.
• Teaching with Integrity: Encourages believers to be diligent in their teaching efforts and examples.

Practical Applications

For those studying Matthew 5:19, consider the following applications:

• Personal Reflection: How do you uphold God's commandments in your life?
• Teaching Others: Are you modeling the teachings of Christ in your interactions with others?
• Understanding God's Law: Use a Bible concordance or cross-reference guide to explore related Scriptures.
• Community Discussions: Engage with others in dialogue about the importance of the Law in modern Christian life.

Conclusion

Matthew 5:19 serves as a profound reminder of the weight of God's commandments and the fidelity required from His followers. By diligently seeking and teaching the truth of Scripture, believers can reflect the greatness of God's kingdom. As noted, the interconnectedness of Scripture through thematic connections and cross-references enriches our understanding and helps foster deeper faith.