King James Version

What Does Matthew 6:10 Mean?

Matthew 6:10 in the King James Version says “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven. — study this verse from Matthew chapter 6 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

Matthew 6:10 · KJV


Context

8

Be not ye therefore like unto them: for your Father knoweth what things ye have need of, before ye ask him.

9

After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name.

10

Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.

11

Give us this day our daily bread.

12

And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors.


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
The prayer continues with two parallel petitions: 'Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven' (Greek: ἐλθέτω ἡ βασιλεία σου, 'let your kingdom come'). These petitions are closely linked - God's kingdom arrives where His will is accomplished. 'Thy kingdom come' prays for God's rule to be fully established on earth. 'Thy will be done' (γενηθήτω τὸ θέλημά σου) requests submission to divine purposes. The phrase 'as in heaven, so on earth' presents heaven's perfect obedience as the model for earthly conformity. This petition commits the pray-er to kingdom values and alignment with God's purposes.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Jewish messianic expectations focused on God's kingdom breaking into history to overthrow oppressors and establish justice. Jesus reframes this by emphasizing obedience to God's will as kingdom manifestation. The petition implicitly acknowledges current reality - God's kingdom is not yet fully realized on earth. This 'already/not yet' tension characterizes New Testament eschatology. Early Christians prayed 'Maranatha' ('Come, Lord') expressing similar longing for kingdom consummation.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does praying for God's kingdom to come commit us to kingdom values and actions?
  2. What is the relationship between God's will being done and His kingdom arriving?
  3. In what practical ways can we align our lives with the reality of heaven on earth?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
ἐλθέτω1 of 15

come

G2064

to come or go (in a great variety of applications, literally and figuratively)

2 of 15
G3588

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

βασιλεία3 of 15

kingdom

G932

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

σου4 of 15

Thy

G4675

of thee, thy

γενηθήτω5 of 15

be done

G1096

to cause to be ("gen"-erate), i.e., (reflexively) to become (come into being), used with great latitude (literal, figurative, intensive, etc.)

τὸ6 of 15
G3588

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

θέλημά7 of 15

will

G2307

a determination (properly, the thing), i.e., (actively) choice (specially, purpose, decree; abstractly, volition) or (passively) inclination

σου8 of 15

Thy

G4675

of thee, thy

ὡς9 of 15
G5613

which how, i.e., in that manner (very variously used, as follows)

ἐν10 of 15

it is in

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

οὐρανῷ11 of 15

heaven

G3772

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

καὶ12 of 15

as

G2532

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

ἐπὶ13 of 15

in

G1909

properly, meaning superimposition (of time, place, order, etc.), as a relation of distribution (with the genitive case), i.e., over, upon, etc.; of re

τῆς14 of 15
G3588

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

γῆς·15 of 15

earth

G1093

soil; by extension a region, or the solid part or the whole of the terrene globe (including the occupants in each application)


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 6:10 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 6:10 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Test Your Knowledge

Continue Your Study