Matthew 19:20

Authorized King James Version

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

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
λέγει
saith
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
#2
αὐτῷ
unto him
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
#3
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#4
νεανίσκος·
The young man
a youth (under forty)
#5
Πάντα
All
all, any, every, the whole
#6
ταῦτα
these things
these things
#7
ἐφυλαξάμην
have I kept
to watch, i.e., be on guard (literally of figuratively); by implication, to preserve, obey, avoid
#8
ἐκ
from
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
#9
νεότητός
youth up
newness, i.e., youthfulness
#10
μου·
my
of me
#11
τί
what
an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
#12
ἔτι
I yet
"yet," still (of time or degree)
#13
ὑστερῶ
lack
to be later, i.e., (by implication) to be inferior; generally, to fall short (be deficient)

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to Matthew. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to gospel presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Jewish Messianic hope, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes divine revelation in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

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