New Testament
Matthew 10:28
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Don't fear those who can kill the body but can't touch the soul. Instead, fear the one who can destroy both soul and body in hell.
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And fear not them which kill the body, but are not able to kill the soul: but rather fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell.
What Matthew 10:28 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches His followers about the importance of prioritizing their fears. He emphasizes that while humans can harm the body, they have no power over the soul, which is eternal. Instead, He instructs them to fear God, who has authority over both the soul and the body, including the ability to judge and condemn in hell. This teaching encourages believers to focus on their spiritual well-being rather than being overly concerned about physical threats. It serves as a reminder that the spiritual realm holds greater significance than earthly life, urging followers to live in a way that honors God and prepares them for eternity. By understanding the true source of power and authority, believers can find courage and strength in their faith, knowing that their ultimate fate rests in God's hands, not in the hands of those who can only harm them physically.
How to apply Matthew 10:28 to your life
This verse encourages us to shift our focus from fearing people and their opinions to revering God and His power. In daily life, we can apply this by prioritizing our spiritual health, making choices that align with our faith, and trusting in God's protection over our lives.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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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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Keep studying Matthew 10:28
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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 10:28 mean?
Matthew 10:28 teaches that while people can harm our physical bodies, they cannot affect our souls. Instead, we should fear God, who has the power to judge both our bodies and souls.
What is the meaning of 'fear him which is able to destroy both soul and body in hell' in Matthew 10:28?
This phrase emphasizes the authority of God over eternal judgment. It reminds us that God has the ultimate power to determine our eternal fate, unlike humans who can only cause physical harm.
How can I apply Matthew 10:28 in my life?
You can apply this verse by focusing on your spiritual health and making decisions that align with your faith. It encourages you to trust in God's protection and not to be overly worried about what others think or do.
What themes are present in Matthew 10:28?
Key themes in this verse include the fear of God, the distinction between body and soul, the concept of eternal life, and the importance of courage in faith.
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