Matthew 19 12

Matthew 19:12 kjv

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.

Matthew 19:12 nkjv

For there are eunuchs who were born thus from their mother's womb, and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the kingdom of heaven's sake. He who is able to accept it, let him accept it."

Matthew 19:12 niv

For there are eunuchs who were born that way, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by others?and there are those who choose to live like eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. The one who can accept this should accept it."

Matthew 19:12 esv

For there are eunuchs who have been so from birth, and there are eunuchs who have been made eunuchs by men, and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven. Let the one who is able to receive this receive it."

Matthew 19:12 nlt

Some are born as eunuchs, some have been made eunuchs by others, and some choose not to marry for the sake of the Kingdom of Heaven. Let anyone accept this who can."

Matthew 19 verses

Matthew 19 12 Meaning

Matthew 19:12 explains three categories of eunuchs in the context of marriage and discipleship. The first two refer to those who are naturally born unable to marry or those physically castrated by men, often for societal roles. The third and most significant category describes those who have voluntarily chosen a life of celibacy, dedicating themselves entirely to the advancement of God's kingdom. This choice is presented as a special calling and capacity, emphasizing that not everyone can or should embrace it, but only "him who is able to receive this receive it." It highlights radical devotion to God above worldly relationships for the sake of eternal priorities.

Matthew 19 12 Context

Matthew 19:12 concludes Jesus’ teaching on marriage, divorce, and celibacy. Immediately prior (Matt 19:3-9), the Pharisees question Jesus about divorce, leading to His strict affirmation of marriage's permanence as established by creation. The disciples, overwhelmed by the demanding nature of this teaching ("If this is the case of a man with his wife, it is better not to marry," Matt 19:10), then elicit Jesus's response in verse 12. Jesus acknowledges their sentiment but redefines the path of singleness not as a general escape from marriage's difficulties, but as a specific, divinely enabled calling ("eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven") for those specially gifted to live this way, rather than a universal command.

Matthew 19 12 Word analysis

• For (Greek: Gar): A connecting conjunction, introducing an explanation or a reason for the previous statement. Here, it clarifies why marriage might not be for everyone, following the disciples' comment about it being better not to marry.
• there are (Greek: eisin): Present tense verb "to be," indicating existence. It establishes the reality of different types of individuals.
• eunuchs (Greek: eunouchoi): Refers literally to castrated men or those born without the capacity to marry. Jesus uses this term, culturally recognized for its implications of celibacy, to draw parallels to a spiritual state.
• who were born so from their mother's womb: Describes individuals naturally infertile or lacking sexual drive due to congenital conditions. This first category is beyond personal choice.
• and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men: Refers to those physically castrated, typically for service in royal courts or harems. This group's celibacy is forced upon them.
• and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs: This is the pivotal phrase. The reflexive "themselves" and the active verb "made" indicate a conscious, deliberate choice. It is widely understood as a spiritual metaphor, signifying a commitment to celibacy and abstaining from marriage not by compulsion or physical inability, but by volitional choice. It does not advocate self-mutilation.
• for the sake of (Greek: dia ten): This phrase establishes the purpose or reason behind the voluntary celibacy.
• the kingdom of heaven (Greek: ten basileian tōn ouranōn): A core theme in Matthew, referring to God's reign and sovereign rule. Here, it denotes the mission and advancement of God's spiritual domain. The commitment of celibacy is solely for its dedicated pursuit and service.
• Let him who is able to receive this receive it (Greek: Ho dynamenos chōrein chōreitō): An imperative statement emphasizing that this calling to celibacy for the Kingdom is not for everyone.
  • able (dynamenos): Refers to having the power, capacity, or spiritual enablement to understand and live out this teaching. It implies a divine gifting.
  • receive (chōrein, chōreitō): This verb means "to make room for," "to contain," "to accept," or "to grasp." It implies a special capacity to comprehend and embrace this specific, radical way of life. The repetition signifies a strong encouragement to those truly gifted with this spiritual understanding and calling.

Words-group by words-group analysis

• "For there are eunuchs who were born so... and there are eunuchs who were made eunuchs by men...": These two categories establish a basis in literal, physical realities, setting the stage for the third, metaphorical category. They represent conditions of celibacy that are not chosen, but inherent or imposed.
• "and there are eunuchs who have made themselves eunuchs for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.": This is the unique and revolutionary category introduced by Jesus. The emphasis on "themselves" highlights agency, choice, and spiritual commitment. The ultimate purpose, "for the sake of the kingdom of heaven," reveals the higher, divine motivation that makes such a choice meaningful and distinct from the first two types. It’s about singular focus on God's will and mission.
• "Let him who is able to receive this receive it.": This closing statement functions as a qualification and an invitation. It clarifies that the previous statement is a calling, not a command for all. It demands spiritual discernment and a particular giftedness to grasp and live this truth, underlining that radical celibacy for the Kingdom is a unique spiritual path for specific individuals.

Matthew 19 12 Bonus section

The teaching in Matthew 19:12 was radical for its time, contrasting sharply with the Jewish emphasis on procreation and family. It elevates vocational singleness to a legitimate and esteemed path within God's purposes, akin to the calling of married life, when done "for the sake of the kingdom of heaven." It challenges cultural norms by implying that one's ultimate identity and fulfillment are not necessarily found in conventional family structures but in singular devotion to God's mission. This verse reminds believers that various pathways of life can be used by God for His glory, as long as they are undertaken with Spirit-given capacity and singular purpose for His Kingdom.

Matthew 19 12 Commentary

Matthew 19:12 offers a profound teaching on dedicated Christian life, asserting that while marriage is instituted by God, some are called to celibacy for the kingdom of heaven. This verse follows Jesus's discussion on the sanctity and permanence of marriage, providing a context for radical devotion that may involve foregoing marital life. It is crucial to understand the "eunuch for the kingdom" as a spiritual metaphor for intentional celibacy chosen for devoted service to God, not physical castration. This unique calling enables undistracted service, unhindered by family cares (1 Cor 7:32-35). It is not a path for everyone, as indicated by "Let him who is able to receive this receive it," emphasizing spiritual enablement and discernment. This divine ability (grace) allows certain individuals to fully commit their lives to Christ and His kingdom, often manifesting in missionary work, intense spiritual devotion, or sacrificial ministry.