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Matthew 25:44

Then shall they also answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee an hungered, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

Matthew 25:44 · King James Version

Meaning

When Jesus spoke these words in the Bible, he was teaching his followers about the importance of showing compassion and kindness to those in need. The verse serves as a reminder that helping those who are hungry, thirsty, lonely, sick, or imprisoned is a way of serving God Himself. The message here is that we should be aware of the needs of others, no matter how big or small, and strive to help them in any way we can. In this verse, Jesus is emphasizing the importance of practicing selfless love and care for our fellow human beings. By ministering to those who are suffering or in need, we are not only fulfilling our duty as Christians but also showing our love and devotion to God. This verse encourages us to be mindful of those around us who are struggling and to reach out a helping hand to them whenever possible.

Theological Overview

One theological interpretation of this verse is that it highlights the importance of caring for the marginalized and vulnerable in society. In this passage, Jesus speaks about the judgment of the nations, where he commends those who fed the hungry, gave drink to the thirsty, welcomed strangers, clothed the naked, visited the sick, and cared for those in prison. The significance of this passage lies in the understanding that as followers of Christ, we are called to demonstrate our love for God by loving and serving others. The word "minister" in this context implies not only physical assistance but also spiritual care and support. Through this verse, Jesus emphasizes the central tenet of Christianity, which is to love one another as God has loved us.

Matthew 25:44 in other translations

American Standard Version

Then shall they also answer, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, or athirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not minister unto thee?

World English Bible

“Then they will also answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see you hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and didn’t help you?’

Douay-Rheims

Then they also shall answer him, saying: Lord, when did we see thee hungry or thirsty or a stranger or naked or sick or in prison and did not minister to thee?

Geneva Bible (1599)

Then shall they also answere him, saying, Lord, when sawe we thee an hungred, or a thirst, or a stranger, or naked, or sicke, or in prison, and did not minister vnto thee?