New Testament
Matthew 10:42
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
And I tell you the truth: whoever gives even a cup of cold water to one of these little ones because they are my disciple will certainly not lose their reward."
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And whosoever shall give to drink unto one of these little ones a cup of cold water only in the name of a disciple, verily I say unto you, he shall in no wise lose his reward.
What Matthew 10:42 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the importance of even the smallest acts of kindness, like giving a cup of cold water, especially to those who are vulnerable or in need, referred to as 'little ones.' He highlights that these acts should be done in recognition of His discipleship. The message is clear: no act of kindness goes unnoticed by God, and those who serve others, even in simple ways, will be rewarded. This teaching encourages believers to be mindful of their actions and to serve others selflessly, reinforcing the idea that every contribution, no matter how small, is valuable in the eyes of God. It also reflects the broader theme of caring for the marginalized and recognizing the worth of every individual, especially those who follow Christ. Jesus assures that those who help His followers will not lose their reward, indicating that God values our service to others as a reflection of our love for Him.
How to apply Matthew 10:42 to your life
Consider how you can serve those around you, especially those who are less fortunate. Even small acts, like offering a drink or a helping hand, can make a significant difference. Remember that these actions reflect your faith and commitment to Christ.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Sending Out the Twelve (Matthew 10:1–42)
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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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The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Matthew 10:42
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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 10:42 teach about kindness?
Matthew 10:42 teaches that even the smallest acts of kindness, such as giving a cup of cold water, are significant in God's eyes. Jesus emphasizes that these acts should be done in recognition of His discipleship, highlighting that no good deed goes unnoticed. This verse encourages believers to serve others selflessly, reinforcing the idea that every act of compassion contributes to God's kingdom.
Who are the 'little ones' mentioned in Matthew 10:42?
In Matthew 10:42, the 'little ones' refer to vulnerable individuals, including children and those who are marginalized or in need. Jesus uses this term to emphasize the importance of caring for those who may be overlooked in society. By serving these individuals, believers demonstrate their love for Christ and their commitment to His teachings.
What is the reward mentioned in Matthew 10:42?
The reward mentioned in Matthew 10:42 refers to the blessings and recognition from God that come from serving others. Jesus assures that those who perform acts of kindness, even small ones, will not lose their reward. This implies that God values our service and will acknowledge our efforts to help others, reinforcing the idea that our actions have eternal significance.
How can I apply Matthew 10:42 in my daily life?
To apply Matthew 10:42 in your daily life, look for opportunities to serve those around you, especially the less fortunate. Simple gestures like offering a drink, helping a neighbor, or volunteering can make a significant impact. Remember that these acts reflect your faith and commitment to Christ, and they contribute to a culture of kindness and compassion in your community.
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