Matthew 5:45
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:45
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of prayer, worship, righteousness. 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 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents Jesus' ethical teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. 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 5:45
45 That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
Analysis
Enemy-love and prayer for persecutors reveal family resemblance to your Heavenly Father. God's common grace—sending rain and sun on righteous and wicked alike—models impartial benevolence. As God's children, Christians must reflect His indiscriminate kindness, not showing favoritism or withholding love based on merit.
Historical Context
Ancient cultures, including Jewish and pagan, typically limited love to one's own group. Jesus's teaching was revolutionary, extending love even to occupying Roman forces and hostile religious leaders. This became Christian distinctiveness that attracted notice and converts.
Reflection
- Who are your 'enemies'—people you struggle to love and pray for with genuine goodwill?
- How does God's common grace giving good gifts to all people challenge your selective kindness?
Word Studies
- Heaven: οὐρανός (Ouranos) G3772 - Heaven, sky
Cross-References
- Resurrection: Job 25:3
- Good: Psalms 145:9, Acts 14:17
- Evil: Luke 6:35
- Parallel theme: Matthew 5:9, Ephesians 5:1