Matthew 5:42

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Matthew 5:42 KJV

Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away.

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Matthew 5:42 Bible Commentary

Commentary on Matthew 5:42

Matthew 5:42 states: "Give to him that asketh thee, and from him that would borrow of thee turn not thou away." This verse serves as a profound instruction regarding generosity and selflessness, emphasizing the spirit of giving that should characterize the lives of followers of Christ.

Contextual Background

In the context of the Sermon on the Mount, Jesus addresses His disciples and the assembled crowd, presenting radical teachings that challenge societal norms and religious attitudes of the time. This particular verse follows teachings on loving one's enemies and turning the other cheek, building upon the theme of radical love.

Theological Insights

The key themes in this verse include generosity, selflessness, and compassion. The call to give to those who ask reflects the nature of God's love and provision for humanity. Public domain commentaries provide the following insights:

  • Matthew Henry:

    Henry emphasizes the necessity of a generous spirit, noting that the command does not endorse abuse of kindness but rather encourages believers to seek opportunities to bless others. He remarks that this principle requires a heart open to assisting those in need, reflecting God's own liberality.

  • Albert Barnes:

    Barnes elucidates the practical implications of this verse, suggesting that giving is not merely an obligation but a reflection of one’s character. He asserts that true Christians should be willing to help others without reservation, as this aligns with the nature of their faith and witness to the world.

  • Adam Clarke:

    Clarke interprets "turn not thou away" as a strong exhortation against refusal. He indicates that every request presents an opportunity for grace and mercy. He also highlights that believers are called to assist individuals in need, reinforcing the idea that true piety exhibits itself through the tangible acts of kindness and support.

Application for Believers

This verse presents profound implications for personal conduct:

  • Practice Generosity: Believers are encouraged to adopt a lifestyle of giving, providing for those in need with joy and an open heart.
  • Embrace Selflessness: The command to give illustrates the need to prioritize others' needs, reflecting the self-giving love of Christ.
  • Cultivate Compassion: The teachings of Jesus invite followers to engage with the struggles of others, fostering environments of support and care.

Challenges to Generosity

While this command is clear, believers often face challenges:

  • Fear of Exploitation: Individuals may hesitate to give, fearing that their kindness will be taken for granted. Yet, Jesus' teaching calls for discernment rooted in love.
  • Materialism: A consumer-driven culture can hinder the spirit of giving. Church leaders must encourage a shift towards valuing eternal treasures over temporary possessions.
  • Time Constraints: In a fast-paced world, believers may find it difficult to be present and available for those in need. The call to action in this verse prioritizes relationship over schedule.

Conclusion

Matthew 5:42 encapsulates a core aspect of Christian ethics - the call to give and to serve others selflessly. Reflecting on the commentary from esteemed theologians allows for a deeper understanding of this verse's implications for both personal faith and community life. Through generous giving, believers can embody the love of Christ and fulfill His command to care for one another.

Matthew 5 (KJV) Verse Selection

Matthew 5:1 Matthew 5:2 Matthew 5:3 Matthew 5:4 Matthew 5:5 Matthew 5:6 Matthew 5:7 Matthew 5:8 Matthew 5:9 Matthew 5:10 Matthew 5:11 Matthew 5:12 Matthew 5:13 Matthew 5:14 Matthew 5:15 Matthew 5:16 Matthew 5:17 Matthew 5:18 Matthew 5:19 Matthew 5:20 Matthew 5:21 Matthew 5:22 Matthew 5:23 Matthew 5:24 Matthew 5:25 Matthew 5:26 Matthew 5:27 Matthew 5:28 Matthew 5:29 Matthew 5:30 Matthew 5:31 Matthew 5:32 Matthew 5:33 Matthew 5:34 Matthew 5:35 Matthew 5:36 Matthew 5:37 Matthew 5:38 Matthew 5:39 Matthew 5:40 Matthew 5:41 Matthew 5:42 Matthew 5:43 Matthew 5:44 Matthew 5:45 Matthew 5:46 Matthew 5:47 Matthew 5:48

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