Matthew 22:37 — New Living Translation (NLT) (2026-09-18)

Historical lead-up

In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus is in the midst of His ministry, teaching and performing miracles. He is often confronted by religious leaders who challenge His authority and understanding of the Law. This particular moment occurs during a time when the Pharisees and Sadducees are trying to trap Him with difficult questions about the Law and the greatest commandments. The atmosphere is charged with tension as they seek to undermine His influence among the people.

Why this verse was written

This verse was written to clarify the essence of the Law and the prophets. Jesus responds to a question posed by a lawyer about which commandment is the greatest. His audience includes both His disciples and the religious leaders, and He aims to reveal the heart of true obedience to God. By emphasizing love as the foundation of the commandments, Jesus seeks to guide His followers toward a deeper understanding of their relationship with God.

True meaning

In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the command to love God with all our heart, soul, and mind. Key words here include “all,” indicating total devotion, and “love,” which signifies a deep, personal commitment rather than mere obligation. Jesus is speaking directly to His listeners, urging them to prioritize their relationship with God above all else. This command encapsulates the essence of what it means to follow God faithfully and serves as a guiding principle for all other commandments.

Living it today

This verse invites us to examine our own lives and consider how we express our love for God. We can shape our daily routines by setting aside time for prayer, worship, and reflection on His Word. In our relationships, we can demonstrate love for God by treating others with kindness and respect, as loving God also means loving our neighbors. Obedience to this command can transform our hearts and lead us to live out our faith in practical ways, fostering a deeper connection with God and those around us.

What follows

Following this verse, Jesus continues to explain that the second greatest commandment is to love our neighbor as ourselves. This reinforces the idea that our love for God naturally extends to how we treat others, creating a holistic approach to faith and community.