King James Version

What Does Matthew 19:18 Mean?

Matthew 19:18 in the King James Version says “He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Tho...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 19 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,”

Matthew 19:18 · KJV

Context

16

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

17

And he said unto him, Why callest thou me good? there is none good but one, that is, God: but if thou wilt enter into life, keep the commandments.

18

He saith unto him, Which? Jesus said, Thou shalt do no murder, Thou shalt not commit adultery, Thou shalt not steal, Thou shalt not bear false witness,

19

Honour thy father and thy mother: and, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.

20

The young man saith unto him, All these things have I kept from my youth up: what lack I yet?

Read Matthew 19 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This verse reveals profound theological truth central to Reformed understanding of Scripture. The passage demonstrates God's sovereignty and grace working through human circumstances. Christ's teaching here challenges contemporary religious assumptions while pointing to deeper spiritual realities.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this passage challenge your understanding of God's character?
  2. What practical application does this truth have in your daily walk?
  3. How should this verse shape your priorities and decisions?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 16 words
λέγει1 of 16

“He saith”

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

αὐτῷ2 of 16

“unto him”

G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

Ποίας3 of 16

“Which”

G4169

individualizing interrogative (of character) what sort of, or (of number) which one

ὁ4 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ5 of 16
G1161

but, and, etc

Ἰησοῦς6 of 16

“Jesus”

G2424

jesus (i.e., jehoshua), the name of our lord and two (three) other israelites

εἶπεν7 of 16

“said”

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

Τὸ8 of 16
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

Οὐ9 of 16

“no”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

φονεύσεις10 of 16

“Thou shalt do”

G5407

to be a murderer (of)

Οὐ11 of 16

“no”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

μοιχεύσεις12 of 16

“Thou shalt”

G3431

to commit adultery

Οὐ13 of 16

“no”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

κλέψεις14 of 16

“Thou shalt”

G2813

to filch

Οὐ15 of 16

“no”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ψευδομαρτυρήσεις16 of 16

“Thou shalt”

G5576

to be an untrue testifier, i.e., offer falsehood in evidence

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 19:18 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 19:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Deuteronomy 5:16-21Exodus 20:12-17Luke 18:20Mark 10:19James 2:10-11Matthew 5:21-28

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