King James Version
Matthew 5:46 in the King James Version says “For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 5 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.
“For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?”
Matthew 5:46 · KJV
But I say unto you, Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them which despitefully use you, and persecute you;
That ye may be the children of your Father which is in heaven: for he maketh his sun to rise on the evil and on the good, and sendeth rain on the just and on the unjust.
For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same?
And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?
Be ye therefore perfect, even as your Father which is in heaven is perfect.
KJV Study — Public Domain
“if”
G1437a conditional particle; in case that, provided, etc.; often used in connection with other particles to denote indefiniteness or uncertainty
“For”
G1063properly, assigning a reason (used in argument, explanation or intensification; often with other particles)
“what”
G5101an interrogative pronoun, who, which or what (in direct or indirect questions)
“have ye”
G2192to hold (used in very various applications, literally or figuratively, direct or remote; such as possession; ability, contiuity, relation, or conditio
“even”
G2532and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
“the same”
G846the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
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.
Matthew 5:46 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.
Verses related to Matthew 5:46 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge