Matthew 5:46 (KJV)

What does Matthew 5:46 mean?

Matthew 5:46 says that loving only those who love you is nothing special, since even people considered morally questionable, like tax collectors, do the same. Jesus is challenging his listeners to go beyond ordinary standards of love if they want to receive a true reward.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, teaching about what it means to live rightly in God’s eyes. By mentioning "publicans" (tax collectors), who were widely disliked and seen as sinners, Jesus points out that simply loving those who already love you does not set anyone apart. The verse highlights the need for a deeper, more generous kind of love.

The Greek behind Matthew 5:46

• ἀγαπάω (agapaō, "love"): This word refers to a selfless, committed kind of love, not just affection or friendship. Jesus is talking about a love that acts for the good of others, not just a feeling.
• τελῶναι (telōnai, "publicans"): These were tax collectors, often seen as corrupt and traitorous by Jewish society. By using them as an example, Jesus shows that even those with a bad reputation are capable of loving those who love them back.
• μισθός (misthos, "reward"): This word means payment or recompense. Jesus asks what special reward there is for loving only those who love you, hinting that true reward comes from a higher standard.

Why Matthew 5:46 matters

• Matthew 5:46 clears up the idea that loving only friends or family is enough to fulfill Jesus’ teaching about love; he calls for something more.
• The verse emphasizes that Jesus’ followers are meant to stand out by showing love that goes beyond what is normal or expected in society.
• This verse connects to the wider passage where Jesus teaches about loving enemies and doing good even to those who do not treat you well, showing the radical nature of his message.