Meaning of Matthew 19:11

This verse from Matthew 19:11, spoken by Jesus in response to questions about divorce, asserts that the capacity to fully embrace and live by certain teachings, particularly those concerning marital commitment and its implications, is not universally possessed but is a gift granted by God. Jesus is not suggesting a deterministic predestination that renders some incapable of understanding or choosing, but rather that a profound, transformative understanding and the strength to live by radical ethical principles require divine enablement. This enablement is offered to those who are receptive to God's will and are open to the transformative power of His Spirit, allowing them to grasp and implement teachings that may be counter-cultural or personally challenging.

Context and Background

Jesus' discourse on marriage and divorce in Matthew 19 occurs within a broader conversation initiated by the Pharisees who sought to test Him regarding the Mosaic Law's permissibility of divorce. They presented the "bill of divorcement" as a legitimate option, referencing Deuteronomy 24:1-4. Jesus, however, redirects their focus to the original creation ideal of marriage as presented in Genesis 1:27 and 2:24, where God ordained marriage as a lifelong union between one man and one woman. His assertion in verse 11 directly follows His teaching on celibacy for the sake of the kingdom of heaven (verse 12), which is itself a response to the disciples' observation that if such is the case, "it is better not to marry." Jesus acknowledges that His teaching on the indissolubility of marriage and the potential for voluntary celibacy is a difficult concept for many to accept.

Key Themes and Messages

• Divine Enablement: The central message is that true spiritual understanding and the ability to live by challenging divine precepts are not solely products of human intellect or will, but are gifts from God. This highlights the supernatural dimension of faith and discipleship.
• The Difficulty of Jesus' Teachings: Jesus acknowledges that some of His teachings, particularly those that demand radical self-denial or a redefinition of societal norms (like the permanence of marriage or embracing celibacy), are difficult for the natural human disposition to accept.
• Receptivity and Grace: The phrase "to whom it has been given" implies a condition of receptivity on the part of the individual. While God initiates and enables, human openness and a willingness to receive His truth are crucial.

Spiritual Significance and Application

This verse underscores the necessity of the Holy Spirit's work in a believer's life. It teaches that comprehending and living out the deeper truths of God's kingdom requires more than intellectual assent; it demands a transformation of the heart and mind, which is a work of divine grace. For individuals, it encourages humility and a reliance on God for understanding and strength, rather than relying solely on personal capabilities. It also calls for discernment in sharing challenging truths, recognizing that not all will immediately grasp or accept them, and that God is the ultimate orchestrator of spiritual understanding.

Relation to the Broader Biblical Narrative

The concept of divine enablement is a recurring theme throughout Scripture. From God choosing individuals for specific tasks (e.g., Moses, David) to the impartation of wisdom and understanding (e.g., Proverbs), the narrative consistently points to God's active involvement in empowering His people. The New Testament further emphasizes this through the indwelling of the Holy Spirit, who guides, teaches, and empowers believers to live according to God's will (John 14:26, 1 Corinthians 2:10-14). Jesus' statement here aligns with the understanding that genuine discipleship involves a supernatural transformation that enables one to live a life pleasing to God, a life that often transcends ordinary human capacity.

Analogies

Consider the analogy of a complex musical composition. Not everyone possesses the innate talent, training, or even the desire to master a symphony. Some may hear the notes but not grasp the intricate harmony or the emotional depth. Similarly, Jesus' teachings, especially those concerning the radical implications of the Kingdom of God, are like such a composition. Those "to whom it has been given" are those who have been divinely gifted with the ears to hear, the mind to understand, and the heart to appreciate and perform the music of God's will. Another analogy could be that of a skilled artisan. While anyone can pick up a tool, only those with the talent, training, and perhaps a special vision are able to craft a masterpiece. The divine enablement is the "special vision" and the "talent" that allows one to truly live out Jesus' challenging words.

Relation to Other Verses

• 1 Corinthians 2:14: "The person without the Spirit does not accept the things that belong to the Spirit of God but considers them foolishness, and cannot understand them, because they are discerned spiritually." This verse directly supports the idea that spiritual truths require spiritual discernment, which is a gift.
• John 6:44: "No one can come to me unless the Father who sent me draws him. And I will raise him up at the last day." This highlights the Father's initiating role in drawing people to Jesus, implying a divine enablement for belief and discipleship.
• Philippians 1:29: "For it has been granted to you on behalf of Christ not only to believe in him but also to suffer for him." This verse speaks of belief itself as a gift, reinforcing the theme of divine enablement in accepting and living out Christian truths.
• Matthew 13:10-17 (Parable of the Sower): Jesus explains that the ability to understand the parables (representing the word of God) is given to some but not others, differentiating between those who have receptive hearts and those who do not. This illustrates the principle that understanding and acceptance of God's word are not automatic.