Matthew 10:31 Meaning and Explanation
“Fear ye not therefore, ye are of more value than many sparrows.”
King James Version (KJV)
Read this verse in context with translation switching:
Read Full Chapter →The Context of Matthew 10:31
This verse concludes Jesus' threefold reassurance to the persecuted apostles, applying the lesson of the sparrows and the numbered hairs with a final call not to fear.
What Does Matthew 10:31 Mean?
Jesus draws His comfort to a conclusion: do not be afraid, for you are worth far more to God than the sparrows He already watches over. The word "therefore" gathers up the preceding promises (the sparrow that does not fall unnoticed, the hairs of the head all numbered) and presses them toward a single command: fear not. Jesus reasons from the lesser to the greater. If God attends to creatures of so little market value, how immeasurably more does He care for His own children, who bear His image and are dear to His heart. This is a declaration of worth spoken to disciples who might feel small and vulnerable in the face of opposition. Their value is measured by the love of the Father, far above the world's estimate or their circumstances. Such assurance is meant to dissolve fear. When we truly grasp how God values us, the threats that once loomed large shrink before His care. The command "fear ye not" rests on the solid ground of being treasured by God.
Matthew 10:31 in the Original Language
The Greek diaphero, behind "of more value," means to differ or surpass in worth; phobeo is the verb for fear.
Bible Verses Related to Matthew 10:31
“But even the very hairs of your head are all numbered. Fear not therefore: ye are of more value than many sparrows.”
- Luke 12:7
“Since thou wast precious in my sight, thou hast been honourable, and I have loved thee: therefore will I give men for thee, and people for thy life.”
- Isaiah 43:4
“Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they?”
- Matthew 6:26
How to Apply Matthew 10:31 Today
When fear arises, remember your worth to God, who values you far above the creatures He faithfully cares for, and let that truth steady you.
Frequently Asked Questions About Matthew 10:31
What does Matthew 10:31 mean?
Jesus draws His comfort to a conclusion: do not be afraid, for you are worth far more to God than the sparrows He already watches over. The word "therefore" gathers up the preceding promises (the sparrow that does not fall unnoticed, the hairs of the head all numbered) and presses them toward a single command: fear not. Jesus reasons from the lesser to the greater. If God attends to creatures of so little market value, how immeasurably more does He care for His own children, who bear His image and are dear to His heart. This is a declaration of worth spoken to disciples who might feel small and vulnerable in the face of opposition. Their value is measured by the love of the Father, far above the world's estimate or their circumstances. Such assurance is meant to dissolve fear. When we truly grasp how God values us, the threats that once loomed large shrink before His care. The command "fear ye not" rests on the solid ground of being treasured by God.
What is the context of Matthew 10:31?
This verse concludes Jesus' threefold reassurance to the persecuted apostles, applying the lesson of the sparrows and the numbered hairs with a final call not to fear.
How can I apply Matthew 10:31 today?
When fear arises, remember your worth to God, who values you far above the creatures He faithfully cares for, and let that truth steady you.