Matthew 12:19 (KJV)

What does Matthew 12:19 mean?

Matthew 12:19 describes Jesus as a servant who does not pursue his work through public quarrels or loud demands for attention. Matthew presents this description as part of words spoken by God through the prophet Isaiah.

The image is of a voice raised in the streets, where people gathered and public disputes could draw a crowd. In this passage, the description follows the Pharisees’ plan against Jesus and his withdrawal from that place.

The Greek behind Matthew 12:19

• “shall … strive” — ἐρίζω (erizō): The Greek carries the sense of quarrelling or engaging in a dispute. Here, “strive” points toward conflict in words, rather than simply making an effort.
• “cry” — κραυγάζω (kraugazō): The word can mean to shout or cry out loudly. Alongside “strive,” it adds the sound of a loud public outcry to the picture.

Why Matthew 12:19 matters

• Matthew connects Jesus’ manner with Isaiah’s words. Matthew 12:17 introduces the quotation, and verse 19 gives a picture of how the chosen servant conducts himself.
• The words about the streets stand beside a description of gentleness toward the weak. The next verse speaks of a “bruised reed” and “smoking flax,” images of things easily broken or put out.