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    Discipleship & Reward

    Matthew 19:27 Commentary

    In-depth meaning, historical context, and practical application

    Written by Bible Sundays Editorial TeamChecked by Bible Sundays Scripture DeskLast reviewed August 1, 2026Our editorial standards
    "Then answered Peter and said unto him, Behold, we have forsaken all, and followed thee; what shall we have therefore?"
    — Matthew 19:27 (KJV)
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    Introduction

    Watching the rich young ruler walk away unable to give up his wealth, Peter pipes up: we did what he wouldn't. Peter's question is honest, even if mixed — what about us? Jesus answers it without rebuke, promising real reward to those who truly leave for His sake.

    Historical Context

    Peter and the other disciples were fishermen and tradesmen who had walked away from boats, businesses, and family responsibilities. Their sacrifice was concrete. Peter is not boasting; he is asking whether the cost will prove worth it.

    Original Language Insights

    'Forsaken' (aphekamen) — left behind, released. The same word Jesus used in the Lord's Prayer for forgiving debts.

    'Followed' (ekolouthesamen) — to accompany, to be a disciple of. Active, sustained allegiance.

    'What shall we have therefore?' — frank language; Jesus does not reject the question but answers it generously in verses 28-29.

    Theological Significance

    Jesus' response (in the following verses) affirms that discipleship costs and that discipleship rewards. Christianity is not pure altruism; Jesus appeals to legitimate self-interest by promising eternal life and reward 'an hundredfold.' Reward is a category He created and uses.

    Practical Application

    Don't be embarrassed by the question 'what do I get?' when it comes to following Jesus. He answers it directly. The reward is not earned; it is promised, and trusting His promise is itself an act of faith.

    Cross-References & Related Scriptures

    Matthew 19:29

    "Every one that hath forsaken houses... for my name's sake, shall receive an hundredfold, and shall inherit everlasting life."

    Jesus' direct answer to Peter's question in this very passage.

    Hebrews 11:26

    "Esteeming the reproach of Christ greater riches than the treasures in Egypt: for he had respect unto the recompence of the reward."

    Moses, like Peter, weighed earthly loss against eternal reward.

    Prayer Response

    Lord Jesus, I have left less than I should have. Make me a true disciple — and let the promise of being with You sustain every cost. Amen.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Is it selfish to follow Jesus for the reward?

    Not at all. The reward is being with Christ Himself and reigning with Him — a reward shaped by His character. Wanting what God promises is the opposite of selfishness.

    Read commentary on surrounding verses

    Continue studying Matthew 19 verse by verse:

    Before · Matthew 19:25Exact verse

    When his disciples heard it, they were exceedingly amazed, saying, Who then can be saved?

    Theme: Salvation & Grace

    Before · Matthew 19:26Exact verse

    But Jesus beheld them, and said unto them, With men this is impossible; but with God all things are possible.

    Theme: God's Power

    Nearest commentary in Matthew

    Earlier · 1 ch back · Matthew 18:20Nearest chapter

    For where two or three are gathered together in my name, there am I in the midst of them.

    Theme: Community & Presence

    Earlier · 1 ch back · Matthew 18:21-22Nearest chapter

    Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times? Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

    Theme: Forgiveness

    Earlier · 1 ch back · Matthew 18:21Nearest chapter

    Then came Peter to him, and said, Lord, how oft shall my brother sin against me, and I forgive him? till seven times?

    Theme: Peter's Generous Math

    Earlier · 1 ch back · Matthew 18:22Nearest chapter

    Jesus saith unto him, I say not unto thee, Until seven times: but, Until seventy times seven.

    Theme: Forgiveness

    Read Matthew 18Commentary: Matthew 18:22
    Read Matthew 19 (full)Nearest commentary: Matthew 19:26
    Read Matthew 20No commentary yet
    Previous commentary: Matthew 19:26Next commentary: Matthew 21:22

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    Related Bible Questions

    Common questions people ask about this passage — answered with KJV scripture.

    Who Were the Twelve Apostles?

    The twelve apostles were the men Jesus chose as His closest followers and commissioned to spread the gospel: Peter, Andrew, James, John, Philip, Bartholomew, Matthew, Thomas, James son of Alphaeus, Thaddaeus, Simon the Zealot, and Judas Iscariot (later replaced by Matthias).

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Discipleship?

    Jesus called followers to total commitment — denying self, taking up the cross, and making disciples of all nations.

    Read answer

    What Does the Bible Say About Discipleship?

    Discipleship means following Jesus wholeheartedly, learning His teachings, obeying His commands, and helping others do the same.

    Read answer

    What Is Discipleship in the Bible?

    Discipleship is the process of following Jesus, learning from His Word, and being transformed into His likeness through teaching, obedience, and relationship with other believers.

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    Why Did Jesus Have to Die on the Cross?

    Jesus died as a substitutionary sacrifice to pay the penalty for human sin and reconcile humanity to God.

    Read answer

    What Is the Gospel?

    The gospel is the 'good news' that Jesus Christ died for our sins, was buried, and rose again, offering salvation to all who believe.

    Read answer

    Quick Devotional

    For a shorter devotional reflection on related verses:

    Matthew 6:33 – Meaning & Devotional

    "But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you."

    Matthew 28:19-20 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and, lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."

    Matthew 11:28-30 – Meaning & Devotional

    "Come unto me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you, and learn of me; for I am meek and lowly in heart: and ye shall find rest unto your souls. For my yoke is easy, and my burden is light."

    Related Miracles

    Signs and wonders connected to this passage and its themes:

    Power Over Nature
    New Testament

    Jesus Walks on Water

    Jesus walked on the Sea of Galilee in the fourth watch of the night and bid Peter come to Him.

    Read the miracle
    Signs & Wonders
    New Testament

    The Transfiguration of Jesus

    Jesus is transfigured on a mountain, His face shining as the sun, with Moses and Elijah appearing.

    Read the miracle
    Healing
    New Testament

    Healing of the Centurion's Servant

    Jesus marveled at the centurion's faith and healed his servant from a distance with a word.

    Read the miracle
    Provision
    New Testament

    The Coin in the Fish's Mouth

    Jesus tells Peter to cast a hook and find a coin in the first fish to pay the temple tax.

    Read the miracle

    Related Reading

    Continue your study with related content from across our library:

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    Matthew 27:46 Commentary

    In-depth study • Christ's Sacrifice & Resurrection

    Hymn

    I Surrender All

    Judson W. Van DeVenter • 1896

    Character

    Dorcas (Tabitha) in the Bible

    The Charitable Seamstress

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