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Explanation for:
Matthew
19
:
11
Who said to them: All men take not this word, but they to whom it is given.
12
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"Gregory the Theologian","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88c5f2a7f789cd7951c81_Gregory%20the%20Theologian.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Can you comprehend the greatness of this virtue? It is scarcely reconcilable with earthly existence. Isn’t it a higher calling for one born of the flesh not to be ensnared by it? Is it not an angelic quality for a soul tethered to the flesh to elevate itself beyond mere physicality? The flesh may tie it to the earthly realm, yet reason lifts it towards the divine; the flesh may weigh it down, but reason inspires it; the flesh may confine it, but love liberates it. Strive earnestly with your entire being, O maiden, for the Lord! This same truth I share with husbands and wives. Do not be deceived by what appears good to many—neither lineage, wealth, thrones, dominions, nor the fleeting allure of beauty. These are mere trifles, subject to time and decay! If you have exhausted all the capacity of love before God, if your affections do not dwell on two opposing loves—the transient and the eternal, the visible and the invisible—are you so deeply pierced by the chosen arrow of love that you can declare in the words of the beloved, “Thou art sweetness, and Whole desire” (Song 5:16)? Observe how leaden pipes hold back rushing streams, often leading them to lose their natural essence; when pressured and drawn together, they surge up instead of spilling out. Likewise, if you focus your love and fully unite yourself with Christ, you will ascend rather than stumble and spill over. You will belong wholly to Christ until you finally behold Christ, your bridegroom. Maintain your purity in speech, action, life, thoughts, and the inclinations of your heart. The enemy tests you from every side, seeking the slightest opening to inflict harm. The more he perceives purity in you, the more he aims to tarnish it; for blemishes are more conspicuous on a clean garment. Do not allow your gaze to be drawn to temptation, to idle chatter, to fleeting nighttime gatherings, or to destruction! For that which is gradually taken and stealthily stolen, while it may seem harmless at the time, ultimately leads to complete ruin. \\n\\nWhen it is stated that “not all can accept this teaching,” do not fall into heresy by ascribing differing natures—earthly, spiritual, or intermediary—to people. Some hold erroneous views, believing certain individuals are predestined for complete destruction while others are ordained for salvation, and that some merely dwell in a state where their free will leads them either to wickedness or virtue. While one may have more or less capacity than another, mere ability is not adequate for reaching perfection; the mind must truly engage that ability, activating nature much like pyrite transforms into iron when struck by steel. When you hear “to whom it is given,” understand that it is granted to those who are called and prepared, for we are reminded that it is “not of him who wills, nor of him who strives, but of God who shows mercy” (Rom. 9:16). This verse speaks to the need for divine grace in our pursuits of goodness. There are those who, in their pride, believe their accomplishments are solely their own, neglecting to recognize the Creator who grants them the capacity to achieve—this Word teaches that God’s assistance is essential even for the most fundamental choices. Salvation is not simply reliant on our actions but also on divine will. Thus, it states that it is “not of him who wills” alone, nor of one who only strives, but also of God who grants mercy. Since the inclination to will itself originates from God, it is fitting that we attribute all accomplishments to Him. Whether you walk or labor, you perpetually depend on the Divine Giver of the crown. \\n\\nIf the Lord does not construct the house, laborers toil in vain; if the Lord does not guard the city, its sentinels watch in vain (Psalm 126:1). The truth is that it is not the swift who secure victory, nor the strong who prevail in battle, nor skilled fighters who triumph; it is God who orchestrates victory and brings the vessel safely to port. There may be connections between these messages, and what comes to mind regarding our reflections should be shared to enrich you. The mother of the sons of Zebedee approached Jesus, motivated purely by maternal love, unaware of the weight of her request, exemplifying the tenderness expected of a mother. Consequently, I emphasize the honor due to mothers. So she asked Christ that one of her sons might sit at His right and the other at His left. How does the Savior respond? First, He inquires if they are capable of drinking from the cup He is to drink. Upon their agreement, He does not dispute this (understanding that the same cup would lead them toward maturity). What follows? He assures them that the cup will indeed be drunk, but as to sitting at His right hand and left—“that is not mine to grant” (Matt. 20:23), but to those for whom it has been prepared. Does this imply that striving, effort, prayer, fasting, or mere endurance have no significance? Are these practices deemed worthless? Yet consider how some are sanctified even in the womb, as Jeremiah was, while others are set apart before their birth. It would be foolish and inconsistent with Church teaching to suggest that souls exist in another realm prior to inhabiting their earthly bodies, allowing some to receive prophetic gifts while others face condemnation due to that earlier existence. Such ideas, though appealing to some, do not align with our faith, which requires a firm understanding that when speaking of “to whom it is given,” we must recognize it is granted to the worthy, noting that true worthiness arises not just from the Father’s gifts but also from our own actions and choices."},{"author-name":"Jerome of Stridon","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88dcd3432c6dd41375498_Jerome%20of%20Stridon.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"Let no one interpret this word as mere destiny or luck, for it is granted either to those who are set apart by God or to those who find themselves in such a condition by mere happenstance. However, it is bestowed upon those who have sincerely sought it, yearned for it, or worked towards achieving it. Truly, to everyone who asks, it shall be given; the one who seeks will find; and to the one who knocks, the door shall be opened (Mt. 7:8; Lk. 11:10)."},{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"What was Christ’s response to this? He did not affirm, “Indeed, it is easier,” in order to prevent them from perceiving it as a matter of legality. Instead, He declared, “Not all shall contain ..., but to those to whom it is given!\\" (v. 11). Through this statement, He elevates the significance of the matter, presenting it as profound, which in turn draws and encourages them. However, there lies a paradox: He describes it as significant, while they see it as light. Both perspectives were necessary. He needed to portray it as significant to inspire greater diligence among them, while they had to convey its simplicity so that they would regard virginity and chastity as preferable. Given the potential difficulty in discussing virginity, He ignited within them a longing for it by emphasizing the unchangeable nature of the marriage covenant."},{"author-name":"Anonymous Commentary (Opus Imperfectum)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":4,"exegesis-text":"The Lord did not imply that it was preferable; rather, He intended to convey that it was not advantageous at all. Aware of human frailty, He remarked, \\"Not all can receive this word, but to whom it is given.\\" This signifies that not everyone accepts it, even though they may have the capacity to do so; while all have the opportunity, not all will take it. Glory is promised as a reward, yet those who seek glory often overlook the necessity of diligent effort. No one can triumph if all are apprehensive about the risks associated with the struggle. Some may lack the strength and stray from the quest for moderation, but we must not allow this to diminish the importance of the virtue of chastity. If individuals who falter in the conflict do not cause distress to others, suggesting that this is simply their circumstance, they are presenting an argument that relates to personal experience rather than the broader challenge at hand. We ought to regard this as a reflection of the negligence of those who fail, rather than as a commentary on the trials of maintaining virginity. He does say, \\"but to whom it is given.\\" In this, He does not suggest that it is granted to some while being withheld from others. Instead, Jesus illustrates that without the support of divine grace, we will lack sufficient strength. Since grace is available to all who seek it, the Lord teaches in the Sermon on the Mount: \\"Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you; for everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened\\" (Matthew 7:7-8). Therefore, a willing heart must come first, and grace will follow. For grace cannot act without willingness, yet the will cannot prevail without grace. Consider how the earth yields nothing until the rain nourishes it, just as the rain cannot produce fruit without the earth."},{"author-name":"Isidore of Pelusium","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88d94130e668938c9ae9d_Isidore%20of%20Pelusium.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":5,"exegesis-text":"Regarding the topic of virginity, it is noted that \\"Not all can contain this word, but unto them that are given it.\\" This phrase should not be interpreted as suggesting that it is distributed randomly; if that were the case, God would not have designated the heavenly kingdom as a reward for them. Instead, it indicates that, firstly, individuals striving toward this natural ideal require divine assistance. Secondly, this guidance is inspired from above, not imposed as a law, but offered as an encouragement. Thirdly, virginity is granted to those who have triumphed over lust, seek assistance from God, maintain this precious state through fasting and prayer, and do not yield to carelessness and indulgence. If virginity were merely a matter of chance, its reward would be unnecessary. It is bestowed not only by grace but also to those who genuinely desire it; those who do not seek it will not receive it."},{"author-name":"Theophylact of Bulgaria","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8989296bafed9104677d7_Theophylact%20of%20Bulgaria.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":11,"exegesis-text":"The disciples expressed that remaining unmarried might be preferable, prompting the Lord to affirm that while celibacy is commendable, not everyone has the ability to maintain it without divine assistance. The term 'given' in this context replaces the phrase 'to whom God helps.' It is granted to those who seek it, as stated, 'Ask, and it will be given to you. Everyone who asks receives.'"},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"He responded to them, \\"You do not embrace these teachings... Not everyone agrees with the notion that remaining unmarried is preferable—not every individual lives by it. Celibacy is a noble calling, attainable by a select few. This grace is granted exclusively to those who receive it. Those who accept and live by these words are those to whom this divine gift is bestowed; and it is provided to those who earnestly seek it: 'ask,' He declares, 'and it will be given to you' (Matthew 7:7), and not merely by asking, but with passion and determination, indeed, as one ought to. In this way, He indicated that purity is a divine blessing, given to those who diligently seek it in the right manner.\\""},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In response to this, Christ the Savior conveyed His Divine message regarding the exalted nature of the life of a virgin. He stated, \\"NOT ALL THOSE WHO HEAR THIS WORD, not all can do this deed of celibacy, but only those who have been given it from God.\\" This is a unique blessing from God bestowed upon those deemed worthy of such a grace. This blessing is granted solely to those who are open to receiving it; those who do not desire it will not obtain it. \\"Ask, and it will be given to you.... For everyone who asks receives\\" (Matthew 7:7). Through these words, the Lord elevates the state of virginity, presenting it as something of great significance, which serves to inspire and motivate those striving for perfection. Remarkably, He characterizes virginity as a lofty endeavor, while it may seem straightforward to the disciples. St. Chrysostom explains that \\"it was necessary for Him to call it great in order to make them more diligent, and they were to take what was said as easy in order that they might thereby prefer virginity and chastity.\\" Given the challenge of addressing virginity directly, as it may have appeared daunting to them, He stirred in them a longing for virginity by highlighting the unchanging nature of the marriage law. The virtue of virginity is a path taken by a select few."},{"author-name":"Gregorij Djatchenko","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"St. Isidore of Pelusium elucidates these statements regarding virginity: \\"Not everyone can uphold the words of this calling, but it is granted to those to whom it has been assigned.\\" This is not meant to imply that such grace is distributed randomly, for in such a scenario, God would not have designated them for the celestial realm as a recompense. Instead, it highlights that those who achieve this natural virtue require divine assistance. Virginity is bestowed upon those who have mastered self-discipline, who seek aid from above, who safeguard this precious gift through fasting and prayer, and who refuse to yield to the desires of the flesh through carelessness and indulgence. If it were merely a matter of chance, the reward would lose its significance. Therefore, it is not simply given by grace, but rather extended to those who earnestly desire to accept it; and those who do not wish for it will find no one to bestow it upon them."},{"author-name":"Michail (Lusin)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c89550c567e172d15b3055_Michail%20(Lusin).png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Not everyone is able to embrace the teaching that it is preferable to remain unmarried; only those who receive this gift from God can truly live a life of celibacy. This special blessing is bestowed upon a select few. By speaking in this way, He elevates the concept, presenting it as noble and thereby drawing others towards it. Since directly addressing the notion of virginity might have seemed burdensome, He ignited within them a longing for purity through the unchangeable nature of the marriage covenant. \\n\\nHowever, if this choice relies on individual will, why did He state, \\"to whom it is given\\"? This serves to highlight the magnitude of the challenge and to assure that it is not meant to be viewed as obligatory for all. It is granted to those who desire it. His words illustrate the substantial need for divine assistance for anyone undertaking such a commitment—support that will certainly be provided to those who earnestly seek it. Indeed, it is important to understand that the ability to live a celibate lifestyle is not merely an option; it comes as a divine gift to certain individuals, contingent upon their willingness and aspiration, thus making it a remarkable undertaking on their part. \\n\\nNot every individual who practices celibacy does so as a remarkable feat. Some may lead this lifestyle involuntarily, and in such cases, it is not regarded as an accomplishment or merit."},{"author-name":"Kochomski S.W.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The Lord challenges the careless and quick judgments of the disciples, emphasizing that the life of celibacy, when coupled with the commitment to purity, is not necessarily easier than marriage. In fact, it is so demanding that not everyone can undertake this calling. Not all individuals have the capacity to embrace such a path. However, to those to whom it is granted, it is bestowed as a divine gift. With these concluding remarks, the Lord elevates the state of virginity to an extraordinary level of honor, as it embodies the highest expressions of spiritual life in humanity. Throughout, He illustrates the finest qualities in a person as worthy gifts from the Heavenly Father, as seen in the understanding of the kingdom's mysteries (Matt. 13:11), Peter's confession of faith (Matt. 16:17), the wisdom granted in speech (Matt. 10:19), among others."},{"author-name":"Gladkow B.I.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88bf0ceef8c96e09a6521_Gladkow%20B.I..png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In response to the comments of His disciples, Jesus stated, “Not everyone is able to accept this teaching, but it is granted to those for whom it is intended.” This statement applies not only to the subsequent discourse on celibacy (virginity) but also to His earlier teachings concerning the sanctity of marriage. If an individual is unable to embrace a love that transcends personal desires and is unwilling to shoulder the responsibilities of matrimony, and if he cannot accept the divine establishment of marriage as a sacred covenant, then it may be better for him to remain unmarried. However, those who choose not to wed must maintain their purity and avoid fornication. There are only two acceptable paths: marriage or celibacy. In the context of marriage, physical intimacy is reserved solely for one’s spouse, while in the context of celibacy, complete abstinence from sexual desire is essential. The challenge of fulfilling marital obligations can be significant for many, but the call to abstain is equally demanding. This is reflected in Apostle Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, where he noted, “It is good for a man not to touch a woman. But for the avoidance of fornication, let each man have his own wife, and let each woman have her own husband (1 Cor. 7:1-2).” Jesus did not mandate either marriage or a life of virginity but expressed a preference for the latter. This conclusion arises when we interpret His words as conveying that while you assert that given the commitments to a wife it may be better not to marry, I affirm that remaining unmarried could be preferable. Nevertheless, since many struggle to abstain from sexual relations with women, they are permitted to marry without sinning; those capable of maintaining lifelong virginity, however, are encouraged to do so."}]}
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