Whosoever therefore shall break one of these least commandments, and shall teach men so, he shall be called the least in the kingdom of heaven: but whosoever shall do and teach them, the same shall be called great in the kingdom of heaven.
MATTHEW 5:19KJVWhat does Matthew 5:19 mean?
Matthew 5:19 says that anyone who disregards even the smallest of God’s commandments and encourages others to do the same will be considered least in God’s kingdom, but those who obey and teach these commandments will be considered great. The verse highlights the importance of both personal obedience and teaching others to follow God’s instructions.
In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, addressing people who are familiar with the Jewish law. He emphasizes that every part of God’s commandments matters, not just the most obvious or important ones. The verse sets up a contrast between those who minimize the commandments and those who uphold and teach them, showing that both actions and influence on others are significant in God’s eyes.
The Greek behind Matthew 5:19
- The word for “break” (λύω, lyō) means to loosen, dissolve, or set aside. Here, it suggests treating a commandment as unimportant or not binding, not just outright disobeying.
- The phrase “least commandments” uses ἐλαχίστων (elachistōn), meaning the very smallest or least significant. Jesus is stressing that even what seems minor in God’s law still counts.
- The word for “teach” (διδάσκω, didaskō) refers to instructing or guiding others. The verse connects personal practice with the responsibility to influence others, not just one’s own behavior.
- “Kingdom of heaven” (βασιλεία τῶν οὐρανῶν, basileia tōn ouranōn) refers to God’s rule or reign, not just a future place but the present reality of God’s authority among His people.
Why Matthew 5:19 matters
- Matthew 5:19 clears up the idea that some parts of God’s instructions can be ignored without consequence; even the smallest details are important.
- The verse shows that teaching and influencing others carries real weight—how one leads others spiritually is as important as personal obedience.
- This verse connects to the wider Sermon on the Mount, where Jesus calls for a deep, sincere righteousness that goes beyond surface-level rule-keeping.