New Testament
Matthew 10:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
When you enter a house, greet it.
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And when ye come into an house, salute it.
What Matthew 10:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus instructs His disciples on how to approach homes during their mission. The act of greeting a house signifies a respectful acknowledgment of the people living there. It emphasizes the importance of establishing a connection and showing kindness as they share their message. This greeting is not just a formality; it sets the tone for the relationship between the disciples and the household. By greeting the house, the disciples are also inviting peace and goodwill into the space. This instruction reflects the broader theme of hospitality and the importance of building rapport with those they encounter. It reminds us that the way we enter a situation can influence how we are received and how effectively we can communicate our message. Overall, this verse highlights the significance of respect and warmth in interactions, especially when sharing important teachings or beliefs.
How to apply Matthew 10:12 to your life
When visiting others, whether for personal or professional reasons, take a moment to greet them warmly. This simple act can create a welcoming atmosphere and foster positive relationships. Remember that kindness and respect can open doors for meaningful conversations and connections.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Sending Out the Twelve (Matthew 10:1–42)
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Jesus

Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 10:12 mean?
Matthew 10:12 means that Jesus is instructing His disciples to greet the homes they enter, which signifies respect and establishes a connection with the people living there. This greeting is important for fostering goodwill and peace as they share their message.
What is the significance of greeting a house in Matthew 10:12?
Greeting a house in Matthew 10:12 signifies the importance of hospitality and respect. It sets a positive tone for the relationship between the disciples and the household, inviting peace and goodwill into the space.
How can I apply Matthew 10:12 in my life?
You can apply Matthew 10:12 by taking a moment to greet others warmly when visiting their homes or workplaces. This simple act can create a welcoming atmosphere and encourage positive interactions.
What themes are present in Matthew 10:12?
The themes present in Matthew 10:12 include hospitality, respect, connection, and peace. It highlights the importance of establishing good relationships as part of sharing a message.
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