Matthew 19:27

KJV

Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?

KJV (with Strong's)

Then {G5119} answered {G611} Peter {G4074} and said {G2036} unto him {G846}, Behold {G2400}, we {G2249} have forsaken {G863} all {G3956}, and {G2532} followed {G190} thee {G4671}; what {G5101} shall we {G2254} have {G2071} therefore {G686}?

Complete Jewish Bible

Kefa replied, "Look, we have left everything and followed you. So what will we have?"

Berean Standard Bible

“Look,” Peter replied, “we have left everything to follow You. What then will there be for us?”

American Standard Version

Then answered Peter and said unto him, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee; what then shall we have?

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 19:27 captures a pivotal moment of candid interaction between Peter and Jesus, immediately following the challenging encounter with the rich young ruler. Peter, observing the ruler's inability to forsake his wealth and reflecting on the disciples' own radical commitment, voices a direct and deeply human inquiry about the tangible outcome and promised reward for their profound sacrifices in abandoning their former lives to follow Jesus. This verse sets the stage for Jesus' subsequent profound teachings on the nature of true discipleship and the glorious recompense awaiting those who faithfully serve Him.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed directly after Jesus' challenging encounter with the rich young ruler in [Matthew 19:16-22](/matthew/19-16-22 "The Rich Young Ruler's Encounter with Jesus"). The ruler, despite his outward piety, was unwilling to surrender his great possessions to follow Christ, departing sorrowful ([Matthew 19:22](/matthew/19-22 "The Rich Young Ruler Departs Sorrowful")). This incident prompted Jesus to declare the extreme difficulty for the wealthy to enter the Kingdom of Heaven, famously stating, "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" ([Matthew 19:24](/matthew/19-24 "Jesus' Teaching on Wealth and the Kingdom")). The disciples, astonished, then questioned, "Who then can be saved?" to which Jesus responded with the profound truth that "with men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible" ([Matthew 19:26](/matthew/19-26 "Jesus' Teaching on the Possibility of Salvation")). Peter's question in verse 27 arises directly from this contrast, highlighting the disciples' active choice to "forsake all" in contrast to the ruler's failure, and prompting a natural human inquiry about their own future.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** In first-century Galilee and Judea, following a rabbi or spiritual teacher often involved a significant commitment, but rarely the complete abandonment of one's livelihood and family as seen with Jesus' disciples. Fishermen like Peter, Andrew, James, and John left their boats and nets ([Matthew 4:18-22](/matthew/4-18-22 "The Calling of the First Disciples")), and Matthew left his tax booth ([Matthew 9:9](/matthew/9-9 "The Calling of Matthew")). This was a radical act, signifying a total reorientation of life around the teacher. The concept of "reward" or "recompense" was also deeply embedded in Jewish thought, often tied to covenant faithfulness and obedience to the Law. While the Law promised earthly blessings for obedience ([Deuteronomy 28:1-14](/deuteronomy/28-1-14 "Blessings for Obedience")), the emerging rabbinic traditions and apocalyptic literature also spoke of future rewards in the age to come. Peter's question, therefore, is not necessarily selfish but reflects a culturally understandable expectation of divine justice and reward for profound sacrifice, especially in light of the Kingdom of God that Jesus proclaimed.

* **Key Themes:** This verse contributes significantly to several major themes in Matthew's Gospel. Firstly, it underscores the theme of **Radical Discipleship and Sacrifice**, emphasizing the high cost of following Jesus, which often involves forsaking worldly attachments, as seen in [Matthew 10:37-39](/matthew/10-37-39 "The Cost of Discipleship"). Secondly, it highlights the **Contrast Between Worldly Attachments and Kingdom Values**, starkly juxtaposing the rich young ruler's inability to part with his wealth with the disciples' willingness to "forsake all." This reinforces Jesus' teaching that true treasure is found in the Kingdom of Heaven, not earthly possessions ([Matthew 6:19-21](/matthew/6-19-21 "Treasures in Heaven")). Thirdly, Peter's question introduces the theme of **Divine Recompense and Eternal Reward**, setting the stage for Jesus' comprehensive promise of future blessings and authority for His faithful followers in the subsequent verses ([Matthew 19:28-30](/matthew/19-28-30 "Jesus' Promise of Reward and the Last Shall Be First")). This theme assures believers that no sacrifice made for Christ goes unnoticed or unrewarded by God.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **forsaken (Greek, _aphíēmi'_):** From ἀπό (apo, "from") and ἵημι (hiēmi, "to send"); properly, to send forth, to let go, abandon, or leave. In this context, it conveys a complete and decisive act of letting go of their former lives, livelihoods, and possessions. It signifies a definitive break from their past to embrace a new path.
* **followed (Greek, _akolouthéō'_):** From Α (a, "a particle of union") and κέλευθος (keleuthos, "a road"); properly, to be in the same way with, to accompany, specifically as a disciple. This word implies not merely walking behind, but adhering to, accompanying, and becoming a devoted follower of Jesus, indicating a deep, ongoing commitment to His teachings, person, and mission.
* **have (Greek, _ésomai'_):** Future tense of εἰμί (eimi, "to be"); meaning "will be" or "shall be." In Peter's question, "what shall we have," it refers to the future state or possession of something in return for their actions. It is a direct inquiry about the future benefits or recompense for their profound dedication.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Then answered Peter and said unto him":** This opening clause establishes Peter as the speaker, responding directly to Jesus' recent teachings about wealth and salvation. The phrase "answered... and said" (a common Hebraism) indicates a direct and perhaps immediate reaction to the preceding conversation, highlighting Peter's role as a spokesman for the disciples.
* **"Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee;":** Peter's declaration begins with "Behold" (G2400, _idoú_), an exclamation drawing attention to a significant fact. He asserts the disciples' radical commitment: they have "forsaken all" (abandoned their homes, families, livelihoods, and possessions) and "followed" Jesus (become His dedicated disciples). This statement serves as a stark contrast to the rich young ruler, emphasizing their decisive and costly choice.
* **"what shall we have therefore?":** This is Peter's direct and poignant question. The "therefore" (G686, _ára_) implies an inference or conclusion: since they have made such a profound sacrifice, what will be the consequence or reward? It reflects a natural human desire for recompense, not necessarily out of greed, but out of an expectation that such a radical commitment must yield a commensurate return, especially in the context of the Kingdom Jesus proclaimed.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 19:27 employs several literary devices. The most prominent is **Contrast**, as Peter's statement directly contrasts the disciples' actions with those of the rich young ruler. While the ruler "went away sorrowful" because he could not forsake his wealth, Peter declares, "we have forsaken all." This highlights the different responses to Jesus' call for radical discipleship. Peter's question, "what shall we have therefore?", functions as a **Rhetorical Question** in the sense that it is posed to elicit a specific teaching from Jesus, rather than merely seeking information. It serves as a narrative device to prompt Jesus' profound discourse on the rewards of discipleship in the verses that follow. There is also an element of **Irony** in Peter's question; while he seeks a reward, the true reward Jesus will describe goes far beyond material gain, encompassing spiritual authority and eternal life.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Peter's question in Matthew 19:27, while seemingly self-interested, provides a crucial theological pivot point. It allows Jesus to articulate the profound truth that while discipleship demands radical sacrifice and detachment from worldly comforts, it is never unrewarded. God, in His divine justice and generosity, promises a recompense that far exceeds any earthly loss. This reward is not merely material but encompasses spiritual authority, a place in the coming Kingdom, and eternal life. The passage affirms that true discipleship involves a complete reorientation of priorities, where the Kingdom of God and following Christ become paramount, trusting in God's faithfulness to provide for and bless those who prioritize Him. This commitment is a response to the call of the Gospel, and it is met with an abundant promise, demonstrating God's character as a rewarder of those who diligently seek Him.

* [Mark 10:28-30](/mark/10-28-30 "Mark's Account of Peter's Question and Jesus' Promise")
* [Luke 18:28-30](/luke/18-28-30 "Luke's Account of Peter's Question and Jesus' Promise")
* [Philippians 3:7-8](/philippians/3-7-8 "Paul's Renunciation of Earthly Gain for Christ")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 19:27 challenges us to honestly evaluate the depth of our own commitment to Jesus Christ. Peter's "we have forsaken all" is a powerful statement of radical discipleship. For us today, "forsaking all" may not always mean literal abandonment of possessions or family, but it invariably involves a reordering of our affections and priorities. It means relinquishing anything—be it personal ambition, comfort zones, sinful habits, or even good things that become idols—that hinders our wholehearted devotion to Christ. The question "what shall we have therefore?" invites us to consider our motivations for following Jesus. While our primary motivation should be love for Him and His glory, it is not unbiblical to acknowledge that God is a rewarder. This passage reassures us that no sacrifice made for the Kingdom of God goes unnoticed or unrewarded by our generous God. It encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, trusting that the temporary discomforts or losses experienced in following Christ are incomparable to the eternal glory and abundant life that await those who faithfully serve Him. Our call is to trust in God's ultimate justice and boundless generosity, knowing that true treasure is stored in heaven.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "all" might Jesus be calling me to "forsake" in my life today to follow Him more fully?**
* **How does my willingness to sacrifice for Christ compare to the rich young ruler's reluctance and the disciples' radical commitment?**
* **What are my motivations for following Jesus, and how does the promise of reward encourage or challenge me?**
* **In what ways can I live with a more eternal perspective, trusting God's promises for future recompense over immediate gratification?**

### FAQ

**Was Peter's question selfish or an expression of genuine concern?**

Answer: Peter's question, "what shall we have therefore?", is best understood as a genuine and human inquiry rather than pure selfishness. It arises from a natural desire for understanding and assurance in the face of radical sacrifice. The disciples had literally abandoned their livelihoods, homes, and families to follow Jesus, a stark contrast to the rich young ruler who could not. Peter, acting as their spokesman, was seeking clarification on the nature of the reward for such profound commitment, especially in light of Jesus' teachings on the Kingdom of God. It was a practical question about their future, reflecting a common expectation of recompense for devotion, not unlike the promises of blessing found throughout the Old Testament for faithfulness to God's covenant ([Deuteronomy 28:1-14](/deuteronomy/28-1-14 "Blessings for Obedience")). Jesus' response in the subsequent verses ([Matthew 19:28-30](/matthew/19-28-30 "Jesus' Promise of Reward and the Last Shall Be First")) indicates that He did not rebuke Peter for the question but used it as an opportunity to reveal glorious truths about the disciples' future roles and the eternal reward awaiting all who sacrifice for His name.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 19:27, though spoken by Peter, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. Peter's declaration, "we have forsaken all, and followed thee," foreshadows the ultimate act of self-emptying and obedience exemplified by Christ Himself. Jesus, though rich in divine glory, "made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Christ's Humiliation and Exaltation")), forsaking the prerogatives of deity to enter human history and ultimately offer His life as a sacrifice. He is the one who truly "forsaked all"—even His life—to "follow" the will of the Father, even to the point of death on a cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Christ's Obedience to Death")). Peter's question about "what shall we have therefore?" is answered supremely in Christ, for it is through His sacrifice that believers receive the ultimate reward: eternal life, adoption into God's family, and co-heirship with Christ ([Romans 8:17](/romans/8-17 "Heirs with Christ")). The disciples' future reward, including sitting on thrones judging the tribes of Israel ([Matthew 19:28](/matthew/19-28 "Jesus' Promise of Reward to the Disciples")), is a participation in Christ's own kingly authority and future glory, granted because of His perfect obedience and ultimate sacrifice. Thus, the call to forsake all and follow is a call to participate in Christ's journey of sacrifice, leading to a share in His promised resurrection and eternal reign ([2 Timothy 2:11-12](/2_timothy/2-11-12 "Faithful Sayings: If we suffer, we shall also reign with 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

Philippians 3:8

Yea doubtless, and I count all things [but] loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them [but] dung, that I may win Christ,

Luke 5:11

And when they had brought their ships to land, they forsook all, and followed him.

Luke 18:28

Then Peter said, Lo, we have left all, and followed thee.

Mark 1:17

And Jesus said unto them, Come ye after me, and I will make you to become fishers of men.

Mark 1:20

And straightway he called them: and they left their father Zebedee in the ship with the hired servants, and went after him.

Mark 10:28

Then Peter began to say unto him, Lo, we have left all, and have followed thee.

Deuteronomy 33:9

Who said unto his father and to his mother, I have not seen him; neither did he acknowledge his brethren, nor knew his own children: for they have observed thy word, and kept thy covenant.