Matthew 7:8
“For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
King James Version (KJV)
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This verse follows Jesus' invitation to ask, seek, and knock, and precedes His comparison of God to a good earthly father who gives good gifts to his children.
What Does Matthew 7:8 Mean?
Jesus gives a sweeping assurance that persistent, sincere prayer is answered: those who ask, seek, and knock will receive, find, and be welcomed in. The three verbs build in intensity -- asking voices a need, seeking adds effort, knocking persists at the door -- and the present tense suggests ongoing, not one-time, prayer. The word "every one" widens the promise to all who come, not a select few. This verse states as a settled fact what the previous verse expressed as a command, grounding our boldness in God's reliable generosity. Jesus is not promising that we always receive the exact thing we name; the following verses describe a Father who gives good gifts, which means He answers in wisdom and love, sometimes giving better than we asked. The point is the open door and the listening ear of God. Prayer is not shouting into an empty sky but addressing a Father who delights to respond. The verse invites a confident, persevering approach to God, certain that He hears and answers those who genuinely seek Him.
In the Original Language
The Greek verbs aiteo, zeteo, and krouo (ask, seek, knock) are present-tense, implying continued, persistent action rather than a single request.
Cross References
“For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened.”
- Luke 11:10
“And ye shall seek me, and find me, when ye shall search for me with all your heart.”
- Jeremiah 29:13
“If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.”
- James 1:5
Application
Approach God in prayer with persistence and confidence, trusting that He hears and answers those who genuinely seek Him.