King James Version

What Does Matthew 10:41 Mean?

Matthew 10:41 in the King James Version says “He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous...” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.”

Matthew 10:41 · KJV

Context

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.

41

He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.

42

And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Christ promises 'He that receiveth a prophet in the name of a prophet shall receive a prophet's reward; and he that receiveth a righteous man in the name of a righteous man shall receive a righteous man's reward.' The phrase 'in the name of' means 'because of their character as'—not merely hosting anyone who claims the title, but welcoming them specifically because they represent God. The promise of sharing the reward underscores that those who support God's servants participate in their ministry. This isn't salvation by works but reward for faithful service. The distinction between 'prophet' and 'righteous man' may indicate different types of ministers or emphasize both speaking (prophet) and living (righteous) aspects of testimony. Reformed theology applies this to supporting pastors, missionaries, and faithful witnesses—those who enable ministry through prayer, hospitality, and financial support receive corresponding blessing.

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Historical & Cultural Context

In Jesus's time, prophets and righteous teachers often lived itinerantly, depending on believers' hospitality. With no church buildings, salaries, or institutional support, traveling ministers relied entirely on those who received them. The Old Testament established patterns of supporting God's servants (1 Kings 17:8-16, 2 Kings 4:8-10). Jesus Himself depended on supporters (Luke 8:3). The early church continued this practice (Romans 16:1-2, 3 John 5-8). Ancient hospitality was costly: feeding, housing, and protecting guests for extended periods. Yet believers who provided such support enabled the gospel's spread. The principle also deterred persecution: hosting known Christians was itself risky, making such hospitality a concrete act of faith.

Reflection Questions

  1. How do you support those in gospel ministry—and do you recognize this as participation in their eternal reward?
  2. What's the difference between supporting true prophets versus enabling false teachers?
  3. How does this challenge modern individualism that sees ministry as others' responsibility?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 19 words
ὁ1 of 19
G3588

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

δεχόμενος2 of 19

“He that receiveth”

G1209

to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

προφήτου3 of 19

“a prophet”

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

εἰς4 of 19

“in”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ὄνομα5 of 19

“the name”

G3686

a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)

προφήτου6 of 19

“a prophet”

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

μισθὸν7 of 19

“reward”

G3408

pay for service (literally or figuratively), good or bad

προφήτου8 of 19

“a prophet”

G4396

a foreteller ("prophet"); by analogy, an inspired speaker; by extension, a poet

λήψεται9 of 19

“he that receiveth”

G2983

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

καὶ10 of 19

“and”

G2532

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

ὁ11 of 19
G3588

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

δεχόμενος12 of 19

“He that receiveth”

G1209

to receive (in various applications, literally or figuratively)

δικαίου13 of 19

“a righteous man”

G1342

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

εἰς14 of 19

“in”

G1519

to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases

ὄνομα15 of 19

“the name”

G3686

a "name" (literally or figuratively) (authority, character)

δικαίου16 of 19

“a righteous man”

G1342

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

μισθὸν17 of 19

“reward”

G3408

pay for service (literally or figuratively), good or bad

δικαίου18 of 19

“a righteous man”

G1342

equitable (in character or act); by implication, innocent, holy (absolutely or relatively)

λήψεται19 of 19

“he that receiveth”

G2983

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

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 10:41 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 10:41 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

3 John 1:5-8Hebrews 6:102 Kings 4:8-102 Kings 4:16-17Luke 14:13-142 John 1:8

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