King James Version

What Does Matthew 10:9 Mean?

Matthew 10:9 in the King James Version says “Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses, Provide: or, Get” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 10 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

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

Matthew 10:9 · KJV

Context

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

10

Nor scrip for your journey, neither two coats, neither shoes, nor yet staves: for the workman is worthy of his meat. staves: Gr. a staff

11

And into whatsoever city or town ye shall enter, enquire who in it is worthy; and there abide till ye go thence.

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Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Jesus commands radical simplicity: 'Provide neither gold, nor silver, nor brass in your purses' (μη κτησησθε χρυσον μηδε αργυρον μηδε χαλκον εις τας ζωνας υμων). The prohibition covers all currency—gold (most valuable), silver (moderate), brass/copper (least valuable). 'Purses' (ζωνας, belts) were money belts worn around the waist. Jesus forbids financial preparation, creating complete dependence on God's provision through others' hospitality. This isn't universal poverty mandate but mission-specific instruction creating radical dependence. The principle: kingdom workers deserve support (10:10), and dependence demonstrates faith while creating opportunity for believers to participate through hospitality. Traveling light enables mobility and urgency—don't let possessions slow kingdom proclamation.

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Historical & Cultural Context

Itinerant teachers and philosophers typically carried provisions and accepted payment for teaching. Cynic philosophers practiced voluntary poverty as philosophical statement. Jesus' instructions create different model: not self-sufficient poverty but dependent faith. Workers would rely on Jewish hospitality customs, which obligated hosts to provide for travelers. This created mutual blessing: workers brought gospel, hosts provided material support. Early church continued this pattern (3 John 5-8). Paul occasionally supported himself through tentmaking but affirmed workers' right to support (1 Corinthians 9:3-14).

Reflection Questions

  1. What does Jesus' command to travel without money teach about faith and dependence on God?
  2. How do we apply these mission-specific instructions to contemporary Christian service?
  3. What is the relationship between kingdom workers' dependence and believers' responsibility to support them?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 11 words
Μὴ1 of 11

“neither”

G3361

(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether

κτήσησθε2 of 11

“Provide”

G2932

to get, i.e., acquire (by any means; own)

χρυσὸν3 of 11

“gold”

G5557

gold; by extension, a golden article, as an ornament or coin

μηδὲ4 of 11

“nor”

G3366

but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor

ἄργυρον5 of 11

“silver”

G696

silver (the metal, in the articles or coin)

μηδὲ6 of 11

“nor”

G3366

but not, not even; in a continued negation, nor

χαλκὸν7 of 11

“brass”

G5475

copper (the substance, or some implement or coin made of it)

εἰς8 of 11

“in”

G1519

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

τὰς9 of 11
G3588

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

ζώνας10 of 11

“purses”

G2223

a belt; by implication, a pocket

ὑμῶν11 of 11

“your”

G5216

of (from or concerning) you

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 10:9 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 10:9 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Luke 22:35Luke 9:3-5Luke 10:4-12Mark 6:8-111 Corinthians 9:7-27

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