Matthew 5:46
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:46
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of grace, faith, worship. 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 5:46
46 For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
Analysis
Loving only those who love you merits no special reward—even corrupt tax collectors do that much. Such reciprocal love is natural, requiring no grace. Kingdom love goes beyond natural affection to supernatural love for enemies, reflecting God's character rather than mere human capacity.
Historical Context
Tax collectors (publicans) were Jews who collected taxes for Rome, often overcharging and keeping excess. They were despised as traitors and sinners. Yet Jesus notes even they practice reciprocal love—suggesting this minimal standard falls far short of Kingdom ethics.
Reflection
- How much of your love is merely reciprocal—loving those who benefit you in return?
- What would it cost you to love someone who offers you no benefit or even actively opposes you?
Word Studies
- Love: ἀγάπη (Agape) G25 - Divine love