Matthew 25:12
But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 10
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀποκριθεὶς
he answered
G611
ἀποκριθεὶς
he answered
Strong's:
G611
Word #:
3 of 10
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
Ἀμὴν
Verily
G281
Ἀμὴν
Verily
Strong's:
G281
Word #:
5 of 10
properly, firm, i.e., (figuratively) trustworthy; adverbially, surely (often as interjection, so be it)
λέγω
I say
G3004
λέγω
I say
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
6 of 10
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
Cross References
1 Corinthians 8:3But if any man love God, the same is known of him.John 10:27My sheep hear my voice, and I know them, and they follow me:2 Timothy 2:19Nevertheless the foundation of God standeth sure, having this seal, The Lord knoweth them that are his. And, Let every one that nameth the name of Christ depart from iniquity.
Historical Context
Jesus concluded the parable with this pronouncement of exclusion (v. 13: 'Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh'). Spoken Tuesday of Passion Week (AD 33), this teaching prepared disciples for His departure and warned against presumptive faith. The early church preserved this teaching as urgent apostolic doctrine: examine yourselves (2 Corinthians 13:5).
Questions for Reflection
- Does Christ know you in saving, covenantal relationship—or will He say 'I never knew you'?
- What evidence in your life demonstrates you are 'known' by Christ beyond mere religious profession?
- How does this parable's sobering conclusion drive you to examine the genuineness of your faith right now?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not (Ἀμὴν λέγω ὑμῖν, οὐκ οἶδα ὑμᾶς, Amēn legō hymin, ouk oida hymas). The bridegroom's response is chilling: I know you not (οὐκ οἶδα, ouk oida)—not mere lack of acquaintance but covenantal repudiation. In biblical usage, 'knowing' implies intimate relationship (Genesis 4:1, Amos 3:2, John 10:14). Christ's denial—'I never knew you' (Matthew 7:23)—means no saving relationship existed despite external religious participation.
This is the parable's devastating conclusion: entrance to the kingdom depends not on profession, association, or religious activity, but on being known by Christ through genuine saving faith. The foolish virgins attended the vigil, carried lamps, called Him 'Lord,' yet were eternally excluded. Assurance rests not on our claim to know Him but on His knowing us—sovereign election and personal relationship, evidenced by Spirit-wrought transformation (the oil).