v1-2        Chapters 19 – 25 are the ‘final lap,’ as Jesus journeys towards Jerusalem. He deals with problems and conflicts, and addresses issues of spiritual character. Some are still healed, although Matthew makes no further comment, and the other gospel writers mention few healings.

v3            Jesus uses the Pharisees’ question to teach on marriage. There are clearly seeking to trick Him into saying something wrong. At the time there was a debate amongst the religious leaders about divorce. Some, it seems, were seeking a legal divorce to indulge their lustful desires, to effectively trade in their old wife for a younger model!

v4-6        Jesus presents the root of the teaching of marriage;

-          Based on Scripture, not human ideas or tradition;

-          From God; it is His ‘idea,’ and therefore must be good;

-          Two persons become “one flesh,” thereby bringing an exclusive relationship, into which others are not party, and which implies that separation and divorce are inappropriate.

v7-8        A genuine question about a particular incident, which is in Scripture. Certain things were permitted “because your hearts were hard.” The mass of Jews has remained hard hearted, and the people addressed by Jesus are as guilty as their forefathers.

v9            Divorce and remarriage, except in specific circumstances, results in adultery, see 5.32; 1 Cor 7.

v10          The disciples fear that Jesus’ teaching is too hard; but where He commands, He gives strength to obey.

v11-12    The place of celibacy; an option, not a command; a route chosen by some to allow an individual to serve God more effectively. Even the OT priest, although governed by extra regulations, was allowed to marry.

                Celibacy appears not to be commanded for the majority.

v13-15    Gentiles would mistreat children, and even Jews are dismissive of children; but the way of the Lord is quite different. We must also be careful of our attitudes, lest we justify sins in our lives.

v16-17    The twofold challenge, as the Lord responds to the rich man’s question;

-          To accept Jesus Christ as “good,” the only true God; and

-          To enter life through obedience; not the same as inheriting eternal life.

v18-20    The rich man seeks to restrict his obedience to specific areas; ‘Surely that is enough,’ is his reply.

v21          Sacrifice is a proof of our love for Christ;

-          this is perfect (mature) faith;

-          the command of Christ is to give;

-          seeking treasure in Heaven.

v22          The rich young ruler,

-          preferred his penny;

-          refused Christ’s command;

-          went away sad.

                He clings to something he cannot keep, and loses immeasurable and eternal blessings. ‘He is no fool who gives what he cannot keep, that he might gain what he cannot lose.’ The question comes, ‘Is Jesus Christ worth it?’ to which this man answered, ‘No!’

v23-25                Referring to the previous incident, Jesus speaks of man’s love for money.

                Again, as in v10, the disciples are astonished, ‘Surely you cannot mean that,’ as they realise that the Lord’s words are uncompromising; but again He explains exactly what He means.

v26          Nothing is impossible with God, and no command of Jesus is impossible to obey.

v27          This incident, as with others, presents an opportunity for teaching and explanation.

v28-29    The great reward for those who follow Christ.

v30          The possibility of missing out on great blessings. Some expect to be accepted by God, but will miss out.

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