Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
Matthew 5:19 (BSB)
So then, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do likewise will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever practices and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“So then, whoever breaks one of the least of these commandments and teaches others to do likewise will be called least in the kingdom of heaven; but whoever practices and teaches them will be called great in the kingdom of heaven.” — Matthew 5:19
Imagine standing in a crowd, and you hear someone say that every little rule matters, even the ones that seem tiny or unimportant. This verse is like a spotlight shining on the importance of every single commandment and how we treat them. It's not just about following the rules; it’s about living with integrity and encouraging others to do the same. If you ignore even the smallest guidelines, it’s like saying they don’t matter, and that can have a ripple effect on those around you. But if you embrace these teachings and share them, you’re lifting up the community and making a big impact. It’s a call to action – to value and uphold what’s right!
This book was written by Matthew, one of the followers of the teacher. He was a tax collector, someone who was often looked down upon but found a new purpose. Matthew wrote this to show that anyone can be part of this new way of life. His perspective is unique because he understands the tension between the old traditions and the radical new ideas that the teacher was bringing. By including this specific teaching, Matthew emphasizes the importance of not just knowing the rules but living them out with passion and purpose.
When this was written, the world was buzzing with different cultures and beliefs. The Jewish people were under Roman rule and felt the weight of tradition on their shoulders. They were trying to figure out how to stay true to their identity while facing outside pressures. This verse was dropped right in the middle of that chaos, reminding people that every single commandment has value, no matter how small it may seem. It was a time when people needed hope and direction, and this message was like a fresh breeze in a stuffy room.
This verse matters today because it challenges you to think about the impact you have on others. Every action you take, even the small ones, can either uplift or diminish those around you. It’s a reminder that your choices matter, and they set the tone for your community. When you choose to honor what’s right and share that with others, you’re creating a positive ripple effect. In a world where it’s easy to overlook the little things, this verse encourages you to recognize that every good deed counts and can inspire others to do the same.
This week, take a moment to reflect on the little things in your life that you might overlook. Maybe it's a kindness you can show to someone, a rule you can follow that feels small, or sharing a positive message with a friend. Look for opportunities to uphold and teach these principles in your everyday interactions. For example, if you see someone struggling, offer to help them out. Or, if you hear someone saying it’s okay to bend the rules, gently remind them why being honest matters. Every small step you take can lead to a bigger change!
This verse sits in the midst of a powerful teaching moment where a wise teacher is laying out the foundation for a new way of thinking. Just before this, the teacher talks about how they didn’t come to toss out the old rules but to fulfill them in a way that brings life and understanding. After this verse, the teaching dives deeper, challenging people’s hearts and actions, pushing them to think about what it truly means to live a good life. This moment is pivotal because it sets the tone for a deeper exploration of how to live out these principles in everyday life. It’s like the opening of a door to a more meaningful journey.
How can you make sure that you’re not only following the rules but also encouraging others to do the same in your daily life?
Keep reading the full Matthew 5:19 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free