King James Version

What Does Matthew 10:7 Mean?

Matthew 10:7 in the King James Version says “And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Matthew 10:7 · KJV


Context

5

These twelve Jesus sent forth, and commanded them, saying, Go not into the way of the Gentiles, and into any city of the Samaritans enter ye not:

6

But go rather to the lost sheep of the house of Israel.

7

And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand.

8

Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.

9

Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Provide: or, Get


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The message 'The kingdom of heaven is at hand' is identical to John's and Jesus' preaching (3:2, 4:17), showing consistency in gospel proclamation. 'As ye go, preach' makes ministry a lifestyle, not an occasional event. The present tense 'is at hand' emphasizes urgency and imminence—the King has arrived, demanding response. This is the kerygma (core message) that remains central throughout Scripture.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

The disciples' preaching built on John's preparatory work and Jesus' established ministry in Galilee. They called for repentance and faith in light of the kingdom's arrival through Jesus. Their mission was authenticated by accompanying signs (v. 8).

Reflection Questions

  1. How is your life a continuous testimony that the kingdom is at hand?
  2. What would change in your daily life if you truly believed the kingdom of heaven is near?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 10 words
πορευόμενοι1 of 10

as ye go

G4198

to traverse, i.e., travel (literally or figuratively; especially to remove (figuratively, die), live, etc.)

δὲ2 of 10

And

G1161

but, and, etc

κηρύσσετε3 of 10

preach

G2784

to herald (as a public crier), especially divine truth (the gospel)

λέγοντες4 of 10

saying

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

ὅτι5 of 10
G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

Ἤγγικεν6 of 10

is at hand

G1448

to make near, i.e., (reflexively) approach

7 of 10
G3588

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

βασιλεία8 of 10

The kingdom

G932

properly, royalty, i.e., (abstractly) rule, or (concretely) a realm (literally or figuratively)

τῶν9 of 10
G3588

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

οὐρανῶν10 of 10

of heaven

G3772

the sky; by extension, heaven (as the abode of god); by implication, happiness, power, eternity; specially, the gospel (christianity)


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 10:7 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 10:7 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study