King James Version

What Does Matthew 10:38 Mean?

Matthew 10:38 in the King James Version says “And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

Matthew 10:38 · KJV


Context

36

And a man's foes shall be they of his own household.

37

He that loveth father or mother more than me is not worthy of me: and he that loveth son or daughter more than me is not worthy of me.

38

And he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me.

39

He that findeth his life shall lose it: and he that loseth his life for my sake shall find it.

40

He that receiveth you receiveth me, and he that receiveth me receiveth him that sent me.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus' requirement 'he that taketh not his cross, and followeth after me, is not worthy of me' uses crucifixion imagery to depict total self-denial. Taking one's cross means accepting a death sentence—willingness to die to self-will, comfort, and safety. This precedes literal crucifixion language's common usage, showing Jesus clearly predicted the cross. Following after taking the cross shows discipleship is dying to self to live for Christ.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Crucifixion was Rome's most shameful, painful execution method for criminals and slaves. Jesus made this His discipleship metaphor before His own crucifixion, showing He knew His destiny. Condemned men carried their cross to execution—Jesus demands symbolic acceptance of this path.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does taking up your cross daily look like practically in your life?
  2. What self-interests must die for you to follow Jesus fully?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
καὶ1 of 15

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ὃς2 of 15

he

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

οὐκ3 of 15

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

λαμβάνει4 of 15

that taketh

G2983

while g0138 is more violent, to seize or remove))

τὸν5 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

σταυρὸν6 of 15

cross

G4716

a stake or post (as set upright), i.e., (specially), a pole or cross (as an instrument of capital punishment); figuratively, exposure to death, i.e.,

αὐτοῦ7 of 15
G846

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ8 of 15

And

G2532

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

ἀκολουθεῖ9 of 15

followeth

G190

properly, to be in the same way with, i.e., to accompany (specially, as a disciple)

ὀπίσω10 of 15

after

G3694

to the back, i.e., aback (as adverb or preposition of time or place; or as noun)

μου11 of 15

me

G3450

of me

οὐκ12 of 15

not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἔστιν13 of 15

is

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

μου14 of 15

me

G3450

of me

ἄξιος15 of 15

worthy

G514

deserving, comparable or suitable (as if drawing praise)


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 10:38 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 10:38 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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