Matthew 19:12

Some eunuchs. Evidently Christ is here describing certain persons who suffered from a congenital defect, and thus one for which they were not to be considered responsible.

Made eunuchs. In the ancient Orient, chamberlains were invariably literal eunuchs. Some eunuchs apparently married (see on Gen. 37:36). Those who were eunuchs were objects of pity by the Jews (see Isa. 56:3-5). Priests thus physically mutilated could not serve in the priestly office (see Lev. 21:20). In the later history of Judah eunuchs are mentioned in connection with the court (Jer. 29:2), but whether these were Jews or foreigners is not known (see on Esther 1:10; 2:3). At least one of them, Ebed-melech, was an Ethiopian (see Jer. 38:7).

Made themselves eunuchs. Marriage is desirable. The formation of character may be far more effective and complete in close association with another human being than when a man is “alone.” In the intimate, day by day relationships of home life more can be accomplished by way of softening and subduing the unlovely traits of character and strengthening the better qualities than could be possible otherwise. Those who, for one reason or another, are without the privilege of a home of their own thereby miss one of life’s best training schools for character, and cannot know the depths of life’s joys, sorrows, and opportunities.

Celibacy is not the ordinary, normal state, and it is a deception of the devil that, of itself, it can lead to a superior state of holiness than would otherwise be possible. Among the Jews celibacy was frowned upon or pitied, and it was practiced only by extreme ascetic groups such as the Essenes (see p. 53). The Scripture record states specifically that Peter was married, and probably the other disciples were as well (see on Mark 1:30). Jesus never recommended celibacy, either for Christians as a whole or for Christian leaders. It is not natural, and does not contribute to the development of a symmetrical character in the way that normal married life can.

The words of our Lord, if understood literally, would run counter to the whole tenor of Scripture. The idea of bodily mutilation is abhorrent. It seems proper to see this statement as analogous to Christ’s declaration in Matt. 5:30. Some commentators find a parallel in Paul’s words in 1 Cor. 7:29. See also vs. 1, 2. Unquestionably Christ’s statement is to be understood figuratively.

Able to receive it. See on v. 11.