New Testament
Matthew 13:12
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Whoever has, more will be given to them, and they will have an abundance. But whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken away.
Compare translations
For whosoever hath, to him shall be given, and he shall have more abundance: but whosoever hath not, from him shall be taken away even that he hath.
What Matthew 13:12 means
Plain-English insight for readers
This verse highlights a principle of abundance and loss based on one's receptiveness and understanding. Those who are open to learning and growing in their faith will receive even more insights and blessings. In contrast, those who are indifferent or resistant to spiritual truths will find that even the little understanding they have will diminish. This reflects a broader theme in the teachings of Jesus, where spiritual growth is linked to one's willingness to engage with and embrace the truth. The message encourages believers to cultivate their faith actively, as spiritual wealth is not just about material possessions but about the richness of understanding and relationship with God.
How to apply Matthew 13:12 to your life
To apply this teaching, actively seek to deepen your understanding of spiritual truths through study, prayer, and community. Engage with scripture and discussions that challenge and expand your faith. Remember, the more you invest in your spiritual life, the more you will receive in wisdom and blessings.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Parables by the Sea (Matthew 13:1–52)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 13:12
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 13:12
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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 13:12 mean?
Matthew 13:12 means that those who are open to understanding and receiving spiritual truths will gain even more insights and blessings. Conversely, those who are indifferent or resistant will lose even the little understanding they have.
What is the meaning of abundance in Matthew 13:12?
In Matthew 13:12, abundance refers to the spiritual wealth and insights that come from being receptive to God's teachings. It suggests that actively engaging with faith leads to greater understanding and blessings.
How can I apply Matthew 13:12 in my life?
To apply Matthew 13:12, focus on deepening your spiritual understanding through study, prayer, and engaging with others in faith discussions. The more you invest in your spiritual life, the more wisdom and blessings you will receive.
What does 'whoever has' mean in Matthew 13:12?
'Whoever has' in Matthew 13:12 refers to those who possess an openness to spiritual truths and understanding. It indicates that such individuals will receive even more insights and blessings in their faith journey.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.