How does Deuteronomy 6:5 connect with Jesus' teachings in Matthew 22:37-38? The original command in Deuteronomy 6:5 • “And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength.” (Deuteronomy 6:5) • Positioned immediately after the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4), this verse calls Israel to total, undivided love for the covenant-keeping LORD. • The threefold description—heart, soul, strength—covers the full range of human devotion: inner affections, life itself, and outward capacities. Jesus identifies it as the first and greatest commandment • “Jesus declared, ‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.’ 38 This is the first and greatest commandment.” (Matthew 22:37-38) • When challenged by religious experts, Jesus answers by quoting Deuteronomy 6:5, affirming its abiding authority. • He substitutes “mind” (Greek dianoia) for “strength,” mirroring the wording of the Septuagint; the intent remains comprehensive devotion. • By naming it “first” and “greatest,” Jesus sets love for God above every other duty, summarizing the vertical dimension of the entire Law. Continuity of God’s revelation • Jesus does not innovate but highlights what God already established (Matthew 5:17). • The Law’s core—a relationship of covenant love—remains unchanged from Sinai to the Gospels. • Deuteronomy 6:6-9 urged Israel to keep these words on the heart; Jesus urges the same, now in the light of His redemptive work (John 14:15). What “all your heart, soul, mind/strength” means today • Heart: motives, desires, and affections are centered on God (Proverbs 4:23). • Soul: the very life and identity find purpose in Him (Psalm 103:1). • Mind: thoughts and reasoning submit to His truth (Romans 12:2). • Strength: every ability, resource, and action is offered to His service (Colossians 3:17). Loving God is not segmented; it involves the entire person in every context. Practical implications for daily discipleship • Prioritize fellowship with God before all other pursuits. • Let Scripture shape emotions, decisions, and worldview. • Channel physical energy, time, and possessions toward honoring Him. • Measure success by faithfulness to this greatest command rather than external achievements. Supporting Scriptures • Leviticus 19:18—paired by Jesus with Deuteronomy 6:5 to define complete obedience (Matthew 22:39-40). • 1 John 4:19—our capacity to love arises from His prior love. • Joshua 22:5; Mark 12:29-30; Luke 10:27—further attestations that Deuteronomy 6:5 remains foundational. Deuteronomy 6:5 and Matthew 22:37-38 stand together as the unchanging, central call: wholehearted, life-encompassing love for the Lord. |
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