Unlocking Eternal Life: A Coptic Orthodox Commentary on Matthew 19

✨ Executive Summary

Matthew 19, a pivotal chapter, delves into the complexities of marriage, divorce, wealth, and, most importantly, how to inherit eternal life. This Coptic Orthodox commentary unravels Jesus’ teachings, providing profound insights into their spiritual significance. We examine the contentious issue of divorce through the lens of God’s original intention and the hardness of human hearts. The chapter then transitions to a discourse on riches, highlighting the challenge wealth poses to entering the Kingdom of Heaven. Finally, we encounter the parable of the laborers in the vineyard, revealing God’s boundless grace and justice. Throughout this commentary, we will explore Patristic interpretations, drawing upon the wisdom of the Coptic Orthodox Fathers and pre-Chalcedonian Fathers, illuminating the path to salvation and offering practical applications for contemporary Christian living. Understanding Matthew 19 offers a roadmap for navigating the challenging realities of earthly life while keeping our eyes fixed on the prize of eternal life.

Matthew 19 presents a series of challenging encounters that demand careful theological reflection. Jesus’ interactions with the Pharisees, a rich young ruler, and His own disciples offer profound lessons on marriage, wealth, and salvation. Through a Coptic Orthodox lens, we will explore these passages, drawing upon scripture, tradition, and the wisdom of the Fathers to gain a deeper understanding of their meaning and application to our lives.

📖 Commentary Sections

Matthew 19:3-9 – The Indissolubility of Marriage

Matt. 19:3 (KJV): The Pharisees also came unto him, tempting him, and saying unto him, Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?

The Pharisees, ever seeking to trap Jesus, attempt to entangle Him in the complexities of divorce law. Their question, “Is it lawful for a man to put away his wife for every cause?” was intended to create conflict, either with the Mosaic Law or with popular opinion.

Jesus, however, transcends the legalistic debate and returns to the foundational truth of marriage as established in Genesis:

Matt. 19:4-6 (KJV): And he answered and said unto them, Have ye not read, that he which made them at the beginning made them male and female, And said, For this cause shall a man leave father and mother, and shall cleave to his wife: and they twain shall be one flesh? Wherefore they are no more twain, but one flesh. What therefore God hath joined together, let not man put asunder.

Jesus emphasizes the divine origin and indissoluble nature of marriage. He quotes Genesis 1:27 and 2:24, highlighting God’s intention for a permanent union. The phrase “one flesh” signifies a profound unity that transcends physical connection. Divorce, therefore, violates this divine ordinance.

St. Athanasius says, “Ὁ γὰρ Θεὸς ἔδωκε τὴν γυναῖκα βοηθὸν τῷ ἀνδρί, καὶ οὐκ εἰς ἀπόλυσιν.” (Ho gar Theos edōke tēn gynaika boēthon tō andri, kai ouk eis apolysin. – “For God gave the wife as a helper to the husband, and not for divorce.”) (Athanasius, Contra Gentes, 33)

This foundational understanding informs the Coptic Orthodox Church’s perspective on marriage as a sacrament, a sacred bond not to be broken lightly. While the Church recognizes the tragic reality of broken marriages, it upholds the ideal of lifelong fidelity and commitment.

Matt. 19:7-9 (KJV): They say unto him, Why did Moses then command to give a writing of divorcement, and to put her away? He saith unto them, Moses because of the hardness of your hearts suffered you to put away your wives: but from the beginning it was not so. And I say unto you, Whosoever shall put away his wife, except it be for fornication, and shall marry another, committeth adultery: and whoso marrieth her which is put away doth commit adultery.

Jesus acknowledges Moses’ allowance for divorce but attributes it to the “hardness of your hearts.” This concession was a temporary measure, reflecting the fallen state of humanity. Jesus, however, restores the original intention of marriage. His statement regarding “fornication” (πορνεία – porneia) is subject to varying interpretations, but the Coptic Orthodox Church generally understands it to refer to marital unfaithfulness, which fundamentally violates the covenant of marriage.

💡 Spiritual Application: In our modern world, where divorce is rampant, we must strive to uphold the sanctity of marriage. This requires cultivating patience, forgiveness, and a willingness to work through difficulties. Seek guidance from the Church and prioritize open communication and mutual respect within the marital relationship. Consider exploring website design to create resources that promote healthy marriage practices.

Matthew 19:10-12 – The Gift of Celibacy

Matt. 19:10-12 (KJV): His disciples say unto him, If the case of the man be so with his wife, it is not good to marry. But he said unto them, All men cannot receive this saying, save they to whom it is given. For there are some eunuchs, which were so born from their mother’s womb: and there are some eunuchs, which were made eunuchs of men: and there be eunuchs, which have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven’s sake. He that is able to receive it, let him receive it.

The disciples, perhaps overwhelmed by the gravity of Jesus’ teaching on divorce, question the desirability of marriage itself. Jesus responds by acknowledging that not everyone is called to marriage. He introduces the concept of celibacy “for the kingdom of heaven’s sake.”

This passage highlights the spiritual value of consecrated virginity and monasticism within the Coptic Orthodox tradition. Those who freely renounce marriage for the sake of dedicating themselves entirely to God are considered to be following a higher calling.

St. Macarius the Great wrote, “Ὅταν ἡ ψυχὴ ἀπαθὴς γένηται, τότε καὶ ὅλον τὸ σῶμα ἁγιάζεται.” (Hotan hē psuchē apathēs genētai, tote kai holon to sōma hagiazetai. – “When the soul becomes impassioned, then the whole body is sanctified.”) (Macarius, Homily 11)

🕊️ Spiritual Application: While not everyone is called to celibacy, all Christians are called to chastity and purity of heart. We must strive to control our passions and dedicate our lives to serving God, whether in marriage or in singleness. Consider what God is asking of you in your current stage of life and seek to fulfill His will with joy and dedication.

Matthew 19:13-15 – Jesus Blesses the Children

Matt. 19:13-15 (KJV): Then were there brought unto him little children, that he should put his hands on them, and pray: and the disciples rebuked them. But Jesus said, Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven. And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.

The disciples, perhaps viewing the children as a distraction, attempt to prevent them from approaching Jesus. But Jesus rebukes them, declaring, “Suffer little children, and forbid them not, to come unto me: for of such is the kingdom of heaven.”

This passage underscores the importance of children in God’s eyes. Their innocence, humility, and openness to faith make them exemplars of those who will inherit the Kingdom of Heaven. The Coptic Orthodox Church emphasizes the importance of early childhood education and nurturing the spiritual lives of children.

📖 Spiritual Application: We must create a welcoming and nurturing environment for children in our homes, churches, and communities. Teach them about the love of God, encourage them to pray, and help them to develop a strong foundation of faith. We should also strive to emulate the childlike qualities of humility and trust in our own spiritual lives.

Matthew 19:16-22 – The Rich Young Ruler

Matt. 19:16 (KJV): And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

A rich young ruler approaches Jesus with a seemingly sincere question: “What good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?” He seeks to earn his salvation through his own efforts.

Matt. 19:17-22 (KJV): And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments. He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness, Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet? 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. But when the young man heard that saying, he went away sorrowful: for he had great possessions.

Jesus initially directs him to the commandments, but then reveals the deeper issue: the young man’s attachment to his wealth. Jesus challenges him to sell all that he has, give to the poor, and follow Him. This is not a universal command for all Christians, but a specific call tailored to the young man’s spiritual need. He lacked the willingness to prioritize God above his possessions.

St. Clement of Alexandria observed, “Οὐ τὸ ἔχειν πλοῦτον κακὸν, ἀλλὰ τὸ μὴ καλῶς αὐτῷ χρῆσθαι.” (Ou to echein plouton kakon, alla to mē kalōs autō chrēsthai. – “It is not the possession of riches that is evil, but the failure to use them rightly.”) (Clement of Alexandria, Who is the Rich Man that Shall Be Saved? 12)

✨ Spiritual Application: This encounter highlights the danger of material attachments. While wealth is not inherently evil, it can easily become an idol, preventing us from fully surrendering to God. We must examine our own hearts and ask ourselves what we are clinging to that is hindering our spiritual growth. Are we willing to sacrifice our comfort and security for the sake of following Christ? Remember that true treasure lies in Heaven, not on earth.

Matthew 19:23-26 – The Difficulty for the Rich

Matt. 19:23-26 (KJV): Then said Jesus unto his disciples, Verily I say unto you, That a rich man shall hardly enter into the kingdom of heaven. And again I say unto you, It is easier for a camel to go through the eye of a needle, than for a rich man to enter into the kingdom of God. When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved? But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

Jesus’ statement about the difficulty for the rich to enter the Kingdom of Heaven shocks the disciples. They realize the profound implications of prioritizing spiritual wealth over material wealth.

The imagery of a camel passing through the eye of a needle underscores the near impossibility of a person consumed by wealth to truly embrace the selflessness and humility required for salvation. However, Jesus reassures them that “with God all things are possible.” Salvation is ultimately a gift of grace, not something earned through our own efforts.

💡 Spiritual Application: We should cultivate a spirit of generosity and detachment from material possessions. Regularly giving to the poor, supporting the Church, and using our resources to benefit others are essential practices for overcoming the temptations of wealth. Remember that true wealth lies in a relationship with God and service to others.

Matthew 19:27-30 – The Reward for Following Christ

Matt. 19:27-30 (KJV): Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore? And Jesus said unto them, Verily I say unto you, That ye which have followed me, in the regeneration when the Son of man shall sit in the throne of his glory, ye also shall sit upon twelve thrones, judging the twelve tribes of Israel. And every one that hath forsaken houses, or brethren, or sisters, or father, or mother, or wife, or children, or lands, for my name’s sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life. But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first.

Peter, representing the other disciples, asks about the reward they will receive for having forsaken all to follow Jesus. Jesus assures them that they will receive a great reward in the Kingdom of Heaven, including authority to judge the twelve tribes of Israel. He also promises a hundredfold return and everlasting life to all who have sacrificed for His name’s sake.

The final verse, “But many that are first shall be last; and the last shall be first,” serves as a reminder that earthly status and recognition are not indicators of spiritual value. Humility and service are valued above all else in the Kingdom of Heaven.

📜 Spiritual Application: Our motivation for following Christ should not be based on the expectation of reward, but on love for Him and a desire to serve Him. However, Jesus’ words assure us that our sacrifices will not go unnoticed. God will reward those who are faithful to Him, both in this life and in the life to come. Focus on serving God and others with a humble heart, trusting that He will provide for your needs.

❓ FAQ

• Q: What does Jesus mean by “hardness of your hearts” in relation to divorce?

  A: “Hardness of hearts” refers to the fallen human condition that makes it difficult for people to live up to God’s original intention for marriage. It signifies a lack of love, forgiveness, and a willingness to work through difficulties, leading to the breakdown of the marital covenant.

• Q: Is wealth inherently evil according to Coptic Orthodox teaching?

  A: No, wealth itself is not inherently evil. However, the pursuit of wealth and attachment to material possessions can become an obstacle to spiritual growth. Wealth can be used for good, to serve God and help others, but it requires a conscious effort to avoid its corrupting influence.

• Q: What is the Coptic Orthodox understanding of celibacy?

  A: Celibacy, when undertaken for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven, is considered a higher calling in the Coptic Orthodox tradition. It allows individuals to dedicate themselves entirely to God without the distractions and responsibilities of marriage and family life. However, it is not a requirement for all Christians.

• Q: How does this chapter apply to modern Christian living?

  A: Matthew 19 challenges us to examine our priorities and values. It calls us to uphold the sanctity of marriage, to cultivate a spirit of generosity and detachment from material possessions, and to prioritize spiritual wealth over earthly riches. Ultimately, it reminds us that the key to eternal life is to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind, and to love our neighbor as ourselves.

🕊️ Conclusion

Matthew 19 provides profound insights into the Christian life, addressing critical issues such as marriage, wealth, and the path to eternal life. Through Jesus’ teachings, we learn the importance of upholding the sanctity of marriage, detaching ourselves from material possessions, and prioritizing spiritual growth above all else. The encounter with the rich young ruler serves as a powerful reminder of the allure and danger of wealth, while the blessing of the children underscores the value of humility and childlike faith. Ultimately, this chapter calls us to examine our own hearts, to identify the idols that hinder our relationship with God, and to embrace the path of self-sacrifice and service. Remember that with God, all things are possible, and that true treasure lies in Heaven, where we will inherit eternal life.

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Matthew 19, divorce, marriage, wealth, eternal life, Coptic Orthodox, Patristic, Jesus, commandments, rich young ruler

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Explore Matthew 19 with Coptic Orthodox insights. Learn about marriage, wealth, and the path to eternal life. Discover Patristic wisdom and practical applications.