Devine Scripture

Matthew 19:16

What does Matthew 19:16 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 19:16 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 19:16 means

A man approached Jesus, addressing Him as 'Teacher' and asking what 'good thing' he must do to inherit eternal life. This question reveals a common misunderstanding of salvation in that era, where many believed eternal life could be earned through good works. The man's inquiry was sincere, yet rooted in a transactional view of righteousness, reflecting a desire to achieve salvation through his own effort.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

And behold, one came to him and said, Teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

KJV

King James Version · 1611

And, behold, one came and said unto him, Good Master, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

And behold, one came to him and said, Teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have eternal life?

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

And one came to him and said, Master, what good thing have I to do, so that I may have eternal life?

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

And lo, one having come near, said to him, `Good teacher, what good thing shall I do, that I may have life age-during?'

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

And behold one came and said to him: Good master, what good shall I do that I may have life everlasting?

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

And lo, one coming up said to him, Teacher, what good thing shall I do that I may have life eternal?

Context

This verse abruptly introduces a significant new character and a pivotal new conversation, immediately following Jesus's interaction with the children. The rich young ruler's question about eternal life sets the stage for a profound discussion about the nature of salvation, the Law, and the true cost of discipleship, shifting the focus from marriage and humility to wealth and commitment.

v.15And he laid his hands on them, and departed thence.

v.16This passage

v.17And he said unto him, Why askest thou me concerning that which is good? One there is who is good: but if thou wouldest enter into life, keep the commandments.

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Matthew 19:26

    And Jesus looking upon them said to them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

  • John 10:28

    and I give unto them eternal life; and they shall never perish, and no one shall snatch them out of my hand.

  • Titus 3:7

    that, being justified by his grace, we might be made heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

  • Acts 16:30

    and brought them out and said, Sirs, what must I do to be saved?

  • Romans 5:21

    that, as sin reigned in death, even so might grace reign through righteousness unto eternal life through Jesus Christ our Lord.

  • 1 Timothy 1:16

    howbeit for this cause I obtained mercy, that in me as chief might Jesus Christ show forth all his longsuffering, for an ensample of them that should thereafter believe on him unto eternal life.

Related questions readers ask

Keep reading

Want to dig deeper? Explore Matthew 19

Hand-picked devotionals, topical studies, and pastoral answers that draw on Matthew 19.

Keep exploring

Follow this verse across Scripture

Topics, devotionals, original-language word studies, and figures connected to Matthew 19:16.

Browse every hub

BibleTopicsBible answersDevotionalsFamous passagesWord studiesPeoplePlacesVerses for…Reading plansCommentary