Matthew 19:28

"Then Peter answered, “Behold, we have left everything and followed you. What then will we have?”"

Key Reflection

Peter's question reflects the deep commitment he and his fellow disciples had made by leaving behind their families, possessions, and way of life to follow Jesus. In first-century Jewish culture, such a decision was both significant and risky, as it meant renouncing traditional family and social ties, which were integral to one’s identity and security. The original audience would have understood Peter's concern as genuine—seeking assurance that their radical decision had not been in vain, and that they could expect some form of reward or recognition for their sacrifice.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 28. Verily I say unto you. Jesus in this verse declares the reward which they would have. They were not to look for it now, but in a future period. In the regeneration. This word occurs but once elsewhere in the New Testament, Tit 3:5. It literally means a new birth, or being born again. Applied to a man, it denotes the great change when the heart is renewed, or when the sinner begins to be a Christian. This is its meaning clearly in Titus. But this meaning cannot be applied here. Christ was not born again, and in no proper sense could it be said that they had followed him in the new birth.

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