Matthew 22:37 — King James Version (KJV) (2026-09-15)

Historical lead-up

In the Gospel of Matthew, we find Jesus in a time of intense questioning and challenge from the religious leaders of His day. They were trying to trap Him with difficult questions about the law and the commandments. This particular moment occurs after Jesus has already demonstrated His authority through teaching and miracles, and now He is faced with a question about which commandment is the greatest. This sets the stage for His profound response about love and devotion to God.

Why this verse was written

This verse was written to clarify the essence of the law and the heart of God’s expectations for His people. Jesus, speaking to a Jewish audience familiar with the commandments, emphasizes that love is the foundation of our relationship with God. The author, inspired by the Holy Spirit, aims to convey that true obedience to God is rooted in love, not merely in following rules.

True meaning

In this verse, Jesus instructs us to love God with our entire being—heart, soul, and mind. Each of these aspects represents a different part of who we are: our emotions, our spiritual essence, and our thoughts. By saying “with all,” Jesus calls for total commitment and devotion. He is speaking to a man who seeks to understand how to please God, and His answer reveals that love is the highest priority in our relationship with Him.

Living it today

This verse invites us to reflect on our own love for God. We can ask ourselves: Are we loving God with our whole heart, soul, and mind? In daily life, this can manifest through prayer, worship, and seeking to align our thoughts and actions with His will. Building relationships with others can also reflect this love, as we show kindness and compassion, recognizing that loving God naturally leads us to love our neighbors. Regularly setting aside time for prayer and meditation can deepen our love and understanding of God.

What follows

Following this verse, Jesus emphasizes that the second commandment is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This connection highlights that our love for God should overflow into our love for others. He concludes by stating that all the law and the prophets hang on these two commandments, underscoring their importance. Today, we can take this to heart by actively seeking ways to love those around us, reflecting God’s love in our communities and relationships.