Matthew 22:39
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 22:39
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Chapter Context
Matthew 22 is a biographical gospel chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of mercy, grace, discipleship. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-46: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it foreshadows Christ's work through typology and prophetic elements. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 22:39
39 And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself.
Analysis
Jesus adds the second commandment: 'And the second is like unto it, Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself' (Greek: δευτέρα ὁμοία αὐτῇ, ἀγαπήσεις τὸν πλησίον σου ὡς σεαυτόν, 'a second is like it, you shall love your neighbor as yourself'). This quotes Leviticus 19:18. 'Like unto it' (ὁμοία) means similar in kind and importance. The two commands are inseparable - love for God produces love for neighbor. 'Neighbor' includes all people, even enemies (5:44). 'As yourself' assumes appropriate self-regard, making it the measure for neighbor-love. Authentic love for God will manifest in neighbor-love (1 John 4:20-21).
Historical Context
Jewish tradition emphasized loving fellow Jews; debate existed about boundaries. Jesus' parable of Good Samaritan (Luke 10:25-37) explodes ethnic boundaries. Paul summarizes law in this command (Romans 13:9, Galatians 5:14). Early Christian communities demonstrated radical neighbor-love through charity, hospitality, and care for poor, widows, and orphans. This visible love attracted pagan converts impressed by Christian community care. Neighbor-love became defining Christian characteristic, fulfilling law's intent.
Reflection
- How does love for God produce love for neighbor?
- Who qualifies as 'neighbor' in Jesus' definition?
- What does loving neighbor 'as yourself' require practically?
Word Studies
- Love: ἀγάπη (Agape) G25 - Divine love
Cross-References
- Love: Matthew 19:19, Leviticus 19:18, Mark 12:31, Galatians 5:14, James 2:8
- Parallel theme: Romans 15:2, Galatians 6:10