Matthew 19:21

KJV

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.

KJV (with Strong's)

Jesus {G2424} said {G5346} unto him {G846}, If {G1487} thou wilt {G2309} be {G1511} perfect {G5046}, go {G5217} and sell {G4453} that thou {G4675} hast {G5224}, and {G2532} give {G1325} to the poor {G4434}, and {G2532} thou shalt have {G2192} treasure {G2344} in {G1722} heaven {G3772}: and {G2532} come {G1204} and follow {G190} me {G3427}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yeshua said to him, "If you are serious about reaching the goal, go and sell your possessions, give to the poor, and you will have riches in heaven. Then come, follow me!"

Berean Standard Bible

Jesus told him, “If you want to be perfect, go, sell your possessions and give to the poor, and you will have treasure in heaven. Then come, follow Me.”

American Standard Version

Jesus said unto him, If thou wouldest be perfect, go, sell that which thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 19:21 presents Jesus' radical challenge to a wealthy young man, revealing that true "perfection" or spiritual completeness involves a complete surrender of earthly attachments and a wholehearted commitment to Christ. Jesus calls the man to sell his vast possessions, distribute the proceeds to the poor, and in doing so, secure an incomparable "treasure in heaven," culminating in the ultimate invitation to abandon all and become His devoted follower. This pivotal exchange underscores the profound cost and eternal reward of genuine discipleship, exposing the spiritual danger of material idolatry.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is central to Jesus' encounter with the rich young ruler, detailed in [Matthew 19:16-22](/matthew/19-16-22 "Matthew 19:16-22 - The Rich Young Ruler's Encounter with Jesus"). The narrative begins with the young man's earnest question about what "good thing" he must do to inherit eternal life. After Jesus affirms the importance of keeping the commandments, the young man confidently declares his lifelong adherence to them, then asks, "What lack I yet?" Jesus' response in Matthew 19:21 directly addresses this perceived lack, pinpointing the one area where the young man's devotion was incomplete: his attachment to wealth. The subsequent verses (Matthew 19:23-26) record the disciples' astonishment and Jesus' broader teaching on the difficulty for the rich to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, leading to Peter's question about their own sacrifices and Jesus' promise of reward for those who have left everything to follow Him.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In ancient Judaism, wealth was often viewed as a sign of God's blessing and favor, a reward for righteousness. This cultural understanding made Jesus' command to the rich young ruler particularly shocking and counter-intuitive. For a person of means to divest themselves of all their assets, especially to give to the poor, was an act of profound social and economic upheaval, challenging deeply ingrained societal values. Furthermore, the concept of "perfection" (Greek: _teleios_) in Jewish thought often referred to blamelessness in keeping the Mosaic Law. Jesus' redefinition of "perfection" here moves beyond mere legalistic adherence to a holistic, internal posture of complete devotion and surrender, which was a revolutionary concept for many of His listeners.
* **Key Themes:** The encounter highlights **The Nature of "Perfection"**, which for Jesus means spiritual maturity and undivided devotion, not sinless flawlessness, exemplified by the young man's attachment to wealth being his obstacle ([Luke 9:23](/luke/9-23 "Luke 9:23 - The Call to Self-Denial and Discipleship")). It also powerfully addresses **The Challenge of Riches**, showing how wealth can become an idol preventing wholehearted service to God ([Matthew 6:24](/matthew/6-24 "Matthew 6:24 - No One Can Serve Two Masters")). The promise of **Treasure in Heaven** contrasts with fleeting earthly riches, emphasizing an eternal, incorruptible reward, aligning with Jesus' teaching to [lay up treasures in heaven](/matthew/6-19-21 "Matthew 6:19-21 - Laying Up Treasures in Heaven") ([Matthew 6:20](/matthew/6-20 "Matthew 6:20 - Laying Up Treasures in Heaven")). Finally, the passage underscores **The Call to Follow Christ**, an intensely personal invitation to surrender all and align one's life with His purposes.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **perfect (Greek, _téleios_):** This term signifies being "complete (in various applications of labor, growth, mental and moral character, etc.); neuter (as noun, with ὁ) completeness:--of full age, man, perfect." In this context, it does not imply sinless impeccability, but rather a state of spiritual maturity and wholeness, where one's devotion to God is undivided and unhindered by any competing allegiances, specifically material wealth for the rich young ruler.
* **give (Greek, _dídōmi_):** A versatile verb meaning "to give (used in a very wide application, properly, or by implication, literally or figuratively; greatly modified by the connection):--adventure, bestow, bring forth, commit, deliver (up), give, grant, hinder, make, minister, number, offer, have power, put, receive, set, shew, smite (+ with the hand), strike (+ with the palm of the hand), suffer, take, utter, yield." Here, it denotes a radical act of divestment and benevolence, a direct counter-action to the young man's attachment to his possessions, transforming his wealth into an act of sacrificial generosity.
* **follow (Greek, _akolouthéō_):** This word means "properly, to be in the same way with, i.e. to accompany (specially, as a disciple):--follow, reach." It implies more than mere physical proximity; it denotes active adherence, allegiance, and a commitment to adopt Jesus' teachings and way of life. For the rich young ruler, it meant leaving behind his former life and embracing a new identity as a disciple of Christ.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Jesus said unto him, If thou wilt be perfect,"**: Jesus directly addresses the young man's stated desire to "lack nothing" in his pursuit of eternal life. The condition "If thou wilt be perfect" sets the stage for a challenge to his perceived completeness, indicating that his current state, despite his adherence to the commandments, was still lacking in a crucial spiritual dimension—total devotion.
* **"go [and] sell that thou hast, and give to the poor,"**: This is the specific, radical command tailored to the young man's unique obstacle. Jesus identifies his wealth as the idol hindering his "perfection." The instruction to "sell" implies a complete divestment, and "give to the poor" emphasizes a redirection of resources from self-accumulation to selfless compassion, aligning with kingdom values.
* **"and thou shalt have treasure in heaven:"**: This clause presents the divine incentive and superior reward for obedience. It contrasts the temporary, vulnerable nature of earthly possessions with the eternal, secure, and infinitely more valuable "treasure" that awaits those who prioritize God's kingdom. This treasure is not merely a future reward but an immediate spiritual reality of aligning with God's will.
* **"and come [and] follow me."**: This is the ultimate invitation and the essence of discipleship. It transcends mere adherence to rules or acts of charity, calling for a personal, relational commitment to Jesus Himself. This final command signifies a complete reorientation of life around Christ's person and mission, implying a willingness to surrender one's will, comfort, and security for the sake of the Kingdom.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 19:21 employs several powerful literary devices. **Irony** is evident in the rich young ruler's initial question about what good deed he must do to gain eternal life, only to be presented with a "good deed" (selling all) that he finds impossible, revealing his true spiritual impediment. There is a profound **Paradox** in Jesus' instruction: to gain eternal treasure, one must relinquish earthly treasure. This highlights the counter-cultural values of the Kingdom of God. The command itself, while specific to this individual, functions as a form of **Hyperbole** or a **Specific Exemplar**, illustrating the radical nature of discipleship for all who might have an idol hindering their full commitment to Christ. The verse also utilizes **Contrast** by juxtaposing transient earthly possessions with enduring heavenly treasure, emphasizing the eternal perspective that true discipleship demands.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 19:21 profoundly illustrates the radical nature of true discipleship, which demands an unreserved commitment to God that transcends all earthly attachments. It challenges the human tendency to find security and identity in material possessions, revealing that such reliance can become an idol that hinders one's pursuit of God's kingdom. The verse underscores the theological truth that God's kingdom operates on an economy of self-sacrifice and spiritual wealth, where giving up the temporary leads to gaining the eternal. It calls believers to evaluate their priorities, recognizing that genuine spiritual "perfection" is found not in accumulating but in surrendering, and in placing Christ above all else. This passage also highlights the sovereignty of God over all aspects of life, including one's possessions, and the necessity of aligning one's heart and resources with His divine will.

* [Luke 12:33-34](/luke/12-33-34 "Luke 12:33-34 - Selling Possessions for Heavenly Treasure")
* [Mark 10:21-22](/mark/10-21-22 "Mark 10:21-22 - The Rich Young Ruler's Response to Jesus")
* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Philippians 3:7-8 - Paul Counts All Things as Loss for Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
While Jesus' specific command to sell all possessions was directed at the rich young ruler's unique spiritual obstacle, the underlying principles are universally applicable to every believer. This verse compels us to honestly examine our own hearts and identify anything—be it material possessions, career aspirations, relationships, comfort, or even our own self-sufficiency—that might be hindering our complete, unreserved devotion to Christ. It challenges us to cultivate a spirit of radical obedience and generosity, holding earthly things loosely and recognizing that true, lasting wealth is found not in what we accumulate, but in our relationship with Christ and the eternal rewards He promises. The call to "follow me" is an invitation to a life of surrender, trusting that God's path, though it may involve significant personal sacrifice, ultimately leads to unparalleled joy, purpose, and heavenly treasure far beyond anything this world can offer.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "possessions" (material or otherwise, including time, talents, or even personal ambitions) might be hindering my complete devotion to Christ?**
* **How does my attitude toward wealth and material things align with Jesus' teaching on "treasure in heaven"?**
* **In what practical ways can I "give to the poor" or exercise greater generosity as an act of discipleship and detachment from materialism?**
* **What does it truly mean for me to "come and follow" Jesus in my daily life, and what might I need to surrender to do so more fully?**

### FAQ

**Does Jesus command all Christians to sell everything they own?**

Answer: No, Jesus' command to the rich young ruler in [Matthew 19:21](/matthew/19-21 "Matthew 19:21 - Jesus' Command to the Rich Young Ruler") was a specific directive tailored to his unique spiritual obstacle. For this particular individual, his great wealth had become an idol, preventing him from wholeheartedly following Jesus. The principle is not that all possessions are inherently evil, but that anything that takes precedence over God in our hearts must be surrendered. The Bible shows examples of wealthy believers who used their resources for God's kingdom, such as [Lydia](/acts/16-14-15 "Acts 16:14-15 - Lydia's Conversion and Hospitality") and [Joseph of Arimathea](/matthew/27-57-60 "Matthew 27:57-60 - Joseph of Arimathea Buries Jesus"). The universal principle is radical detachment from materialism and a willingness to surrender *anything* God asks, prioritizing Him above all else.

**What does "be perfect" mean in this context?**

Answer: In [Matthew 19:21](/matthew/19-21 "Matthew 19:21 - Jesus' Command to the Rich Young Ruler"), the Greek word translated "perfect" is _teleios_ (G5046). It does not mean sinless flawlessness, which is unattainable for humans (Romans 3:23). Instead, _teleios_ signifies completeness, maturity, or wholeness. Jesus was calling the rich young ruler to a state of undivided devotion, where his heart was entirely committed to God without any competing allegiances, specifically his attachment to wealth. To be "perfect" in this sense means to be fully developed in one's faith and commitment, holding nothing back from God.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 19:21 finds its ultimate fulfillment in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The rich young ruler was challenged to give up his earthly possessions to gain heavenly treasure and follow Jesus; Christ Himself epitomizes this principle in its most profound sense. Though He was infinitely rich in glory and divine prerogatives, [yet for our sakes He became poor](/2_corinthians/8-9 "2 Corinthians 8:9 - Christ's Incarnation and Poverty for Us"), emptying Himself and [taking the form of a servant](/philippians/2-5-8 "Philippians 2:5-8 - Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation"). He perfectly demonstrated the "perfection" He called the young man to, living a life of complete obedience and surrender to the Father's will, even to the point of death on a cross. Jesus is the true "treasure in heaven," for [in Him are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge](/colossians/2-3 "Colossians 2:3 - Christ, the Treasure of Wisdom and Knowledge"). The call to "come and follow me" is an invitation to participate in His life, death, and resurrection, where we are [buried with Him by baptism into death](/romans/6-4 "Romans 6:4 - Buried with Christ in Baptism") so that we might walk in newness of life. It is through His ultimate sacrifice that we gain the eternal life and heavenly treasure that the rich young ruler sought, for [I have been crucified with Christ and it is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me](/galatians/2-20 "Galatians 2:20 - Crucified with Christ"). Thus, Christ not only issues the command but embodies its perfect fulfillment, making our own surrender and pursuit of heavenly treasure possible through Him.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

Mark 10:21

Then Jesus beholding him loved him, and said unto him, One thing thou lackest: go thy way, sell whatsoever thou hast, and give to the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, take up the cross, and follow me.

Luke 18:22

Now when Jesus heard these things, he said unto him, Yet lackest thou one thing: sell all that thou hast, and distribute unto the poor, and thou shalt have treasure in heaven: and come, follow me.

Luke 12:33

Sell that ye have, and give alms; provide yourselves bags which wax not old, a treasure in the heavens that faileth not, where no thief approacheth, neither moth corrupteth.

Luke 14:33

So likewise, whosoever he be of you that forsaketh not all that he hath, he cannot be my disciple.

Acts 2:45

And sold their possessions and goods, and parted them to all [men], as every man had need.

Luke 9:23

And he said to [them] all, If any [man] will come after me, let him deny himself, and take up his cross daily, and follow me.

John 12:26

If any man serve me, let him follow me; and where I am, there shall also my servant be: if any man serve me, him will [my] Father honour.