Matthew 22:37 — New King James Version (NKJV) (2026-08-26)

Historical lead-up

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is engaged in a series of discussions with religious leaders who are trying to challenge His authority and teachings. This particular moment occurs during a time when the Pharisees and Sadducees are questioning Him about the law and the greatest commandments. The atmosphere is tense, as they seek to trap Him in His words.

Why this verse was written

This verse was written to clarify the essence of the law and the heart of true devotion to God. Jesus addresses a Jewish audience familiar with the commandments and the importance of the law in their lives. His purpose is to reveal that love for God is the foundation of all commandments, emphasizing that genuine faith is rooted in love rather than mere rule-following.

True meaning

In this verse, Jesus is responding to a question about which commandment is the greatest. He emphasizes that loving God with all your heart, soul, and mind is paramount. The key words here—heart, soul, and mind—represent the totality of a person’s being. Jesus is speaking to His followers, urging them to prioritize their relationship with God above all else. This commandment encapsulates the essence of the law, showing that love is the highest calling for believers.

Living it today

This verse invites us to reflect on our own lives and how we express our love for God. We can shape our daily routines by intentionally setting aside time for prayer, worship, and reading Scripture. In our relationships, we can demonstrate love for God by treating others with kindness and respect, recognizing that our actions reflect our devotion to Him. Obedience to God flows from a heart that loves Him deeply, so we should ask ourselves how we can cultivate that love in practical ways each day.

What follows

Following this verse, Jesus continues to teach about the second greatest commandment, which is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This connection highlights that our love for God naturally extends to how we treat others, reinforcing the importance of love in our faith journey.