Matthew 22:37 — Catholic Public Domain Version (CPDV) (2026-08-26)

Historical lead-up

In the context of Matthew 22, Jesus is engaged in a series of discussions with religious leaders who are trying to challenge His authority and teachings. The setting is during the final days of His earthly ministry, just before His crucifixion. The Pharisees and Sadducees, two prominent groups of Jewish leaders, are questioning Him about various aspects of the law and faith, seeking to trap Him in His words.

Why this verse was written

This verse was written to clarify the essence of God’s commandments. Jesus is addressing a lawyer who asks Him which commandment is the greatest. The audience includes not only the lawyer but also the surrounding crowd, who are eager to hear Jesus’ response. By stating this commandment, Jesus emphasizes the foundational principle of love in the relationship between God and humanity.

True meaning

In this verse, Jesus instructs us to love God with our entire being—heart, soul, and mind. The heart represents our emotions and will, the soul signifies our spiritual essence, and the mind encompasses our thoughts and understanding. By using these three aspects, Jesus is calling for a holistic love that involves every part of who we are. This commandment is not just about feelings; it requires action and commitment to God above all else.

Living it today

This verse invites us to examine how we express our love for God in our daily lives. We can start by prioritizing time for prayer, worship, and studying Scripture, allowing our hearts to connect deeply with God. In our relationships, we can reflect this love by showing kindness, patience, and understanding to others. Loving God fully can transform how we interact with those around us, encouraging us to live out our faith in practical ways.

What follows

The verses that follow highlight that loving God is the first and greatest commandment, and it is closely tied to loving our neighbors as ourselves. This connection reminds us that our love for God should naturally overflow into our love for others. Together, these commandments encapsulate the essence of the law and the prophets, guiding us to live in a way that honors both God and those He has placed in our lives.