Matthew 25:37 (KJV)

What does Matthew 25:37 mean?

Matthew 25:37 describes how the “righteous” will respond to the King (Jesus) with surprise, asking when they ever saw Him hungry and fed Him, or thirsty and gave Him something to drink. The verse shows that these people did not realize their acts of kindness to others were counted as service to Jesus Himself.

In this scene, Jesus is telling a parable about the final judgment, where He separates people as a shepherd separates sheep from goats. The “righteous” are those who have done good to others without realizing its greater spiritual significance. Their question reveals genuine humility and a lack of self-awareness about their good deeds, highlighting that their compassion was not done for recognition.

The Greek behind Matthew 25:37

• “righteous” (δίκαιος, dikaios): This word refers to those who are just or upright, not simply by outward actions, but in character and relationship to others. Here, it emphasizes that their kindness was genuine, not self-serving.
• “fed” (ἐθρέψαμεν, ethrepsamen): The Greek word means to nourish or provide food, suggesting not just a token gesture but real care for someone’s need.
• “Lord” (Κύριε, Kyrie): The use of this respectful title shows that the “righteous” recognize Jesus’ authority, even as they are surprised by His identification with those in need.

Why Matthew 25:37 matters

• Matthew 25:37 clears up the idea that the “righteous” were aware of their good deeds; instead, they acted out of natural compassion, not for reward or recognition.
• The verse highlights the close identification Jesus makes between Himself and those in need, showing that acts of kindness to others are received as acts toward Him.
• This moment sets up Jesus’ explanation in the following verses, where He reveals that caring for “the least of these” is, in fact, serving Him directly, deepening the meaning of everyday acts of mercy.