Matthew 22:37 — New Living Translation (NLT) (2026-09-16)

Historical lead-up

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is in the midst of His ministry, teaching and performing miracles. He faces increasing opposition from religious leaders who challenge His authority and teachings. This particular moment occurs during a series of confrontations where the Pharisees and Sadducees are trying to trap Him with difficult questions. They seek to undermine His influence among the people.

Why this verse was written

This verse is part of Jesus’ response to a question posed by a Pharisee about the greatest commandment in the Law. The audience includes both His disciples and the religious leaders, and the purpose is to clarify the essence of God’s commandments. By emphasizing love, Jesus aims to redirect their focus from legalistic interpretations to the heart of true obedience to God.

True meaning

In this verse, Jesus highlights the importance of loving God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind. The key words here—heart, soul, and mind—represent the totality of a person’s being. Jesus is speaking to the need for a deep, personal relationship with God that encompasses every aspect of life. This commandment is not just about external actions but about an internal commitment to love God wholeheartedly.

Living it today

This verse invites us to examine our own lives and consider how we can love God more fully. It encourages us to engage in daily practices that deepen our relationship with Him, such as prayer, worship, and studying Scripture. In our relationships with others, this love for God can inspire us to act with kindness, compassion, and integrity. By prioritizing our love for God, we can better reflect His love in our interactions and decisions.

What follows

Following this verse, Jesus goes on to explain the second greatest commandment, which is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This connection emphasizes that our love for God naturally extends to how we treat others, reinforcing the idea that love is central to our faith.