Opening Your Bible
Loading study tools and insights...
LOADING
Loading study tools and insights...
Loading study tools and insights...
Matthew 25:12 (BSB)
But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’
THE HOLY BIBLE
ListenListen · Chapter audio
Hear this chapter read aloud — the verse you’re on highlights as the reading moves forward.
Chapter read aloud · verse highlights follow along
Scripture quotations (main text) are from the Berean Study Bible (BSB), © 2016, 2018 by Bible Hub. Used by permission. All rights reserved worldwide. ESV® Bible (The Holy Bible, English Standard Version®), ©2001 by Crossway, is used for comparison and word study only.
Bible Copyright & Permissions“But he replied, ‘Truly I tell you, I do not know you.’” — Matthew 25:12
In this moment, someone is asking for recognition, for a connection, but the response is cold and definitive: 'I do not know you.' Imagine the weight of those words! It's like being at a gathering where you think you're included, but then you're told you're a stranger. There’s a palpable sense of rejection here, a stark truth that stings. It highlights the importance of being truly known and understood, not just superficially recognized. This moment is a wake-up call about relationships and being genuine.
This book was written by Matthew, one of Jesus' followers. He was a tax collector, which means he was often seen as an outsider himself. Matthew included this detail to emphasize the importance of being truly connected to Jesus, not just showing up when you feel like it. His unique background gives him insight into the value of genuine relationships, making this moment resonate even more. It’s like he’s saying, 'I’ve been there, and I know how it feels to be left out.'
Matthew wrote this during a time when people were grappling with their faith and the expectations that came with it. The world was buzzing with excitement and anticipation about Jesus’ teachings, but also with fear and uncertainty about the future. This was a period of rapid change and deep spiritual longing. Understanding this backdrop helps you feel the urgency in his words—people were searching for meaning and connection, while also facing the reality of missed opportunities.
This verse is crucial for you today because it challenges you to think about your own relationships—both with others and with your beliefs. It’s a reminder that just knowing about something isn’t enough; you have to engage, be ready, and truly connect. It invites you to ask yourself: Are you genuinely invested in your relationships and your journey? This moment encourages you to reflect on what it means to be recognized and to truly know and be known by others.
This week, think about how you can deepen your connections with those around you. Maybe it’s reaching out to a friend for a real conversation instead of just a text. Or, if you’re exploring your beliefs, consider taking time to really engage with them—read, discuss, and reflect on them. Take a moment to ask yourself if you’re just going through the motions or if you’re truly prepared and connected in your life.
This verse is part of a larger story about being prepared and aware. Leading up to this moment, there’s a parable about ten bridesmaids waiting for a wedding. Five were ready with enough oil for their lamps, and five were not. When the time came, those who weren’t prepared missed the chance to enter the celebration. This specific verse hits hard as it comes right after the bridesmaids return, only to find that their lack of readiness led to their exclusion. It amplifies the urgency of staying prepared and the consequences of being complacent.
When you hear 'I do not know you,' what feelings does that evoke in you about your own connections with others or your beliefs?
Keep reading the full Matthew 25:12 study — free
Sign Up or Login Free