Matthew 8:19
And a certain scribe came, and said unto him, Master, I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest.
Original Language Analysis
καὶ
And
G2532
καὶ
And
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
1 of 12
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
προσελθὼν
came
G4334
προσελθὼν
came
Strong's:
G4334
Word #:
2 of 12
to approach, i.e., (literally) come near, visit, or (figuratively) worship, assent to
αὐτῷ
unto him
G846
αὐτῷ
unto him
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
6 of 12
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
ἀκολουθήσω
I will follow
G190
ἀκολουθήσω
I will follow
Strong's:
G190
Word #:
8 of 12
properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)
Historical Context
Scribes were religious professionals with social status and income. This scribe's willingness to abandon his position and follow an itinerant rabbi appeared radical. Yet Jesus' response suggests the scribe hadn't fully comprehended the poverty and rejection following Christ entails.
Questions for Reflection
- How does Jesus' response challenge superficial enthusiasm that hasn't counted the cost of discipleship?
- What securities and comforts might Christ be calling you to abandon to follow Him fully?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The scribe's address 'Master' (Greek 'didaskalos'—teacher) and enthusiastic promise 'I will follow thee whithersoever thou goest' appears exemplary but lacks understanding of discipleship's cost. His self-initiated approach contrasts with Jesus' calling of the Twelve. The scribe's profession may be sincere but immature, not counting the cost. Jesus' response reveals that true discipleship requires abandoning security and comfort, not merely enthusiastic profession.