Matthew 5:46-47 in the King James Version of the Bible states, "For if ye love them which love you, what reward have ye? do not even the publicans the same? And if ye salute your brethren only, what do ye more than others? do not even the publicans so?" This verse is part of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount, where he delivers a series of teachings on topics such as love, forgiveness, and righteousness. In these two verses, Jesus challenges his followers to go beyond the expected norms of love and kindness by loving and greeting even those who are not close to them or who may not be friendly in return.

The theme of these verses is love and kindness beyond boundaries. Jesus is pointing out that it is easy to love and greet those who already love and greet you, but true love and kindness go beyond this. The publicans, who were tax collectors in ancient Israel, were often seen as sinners and enemies of the Jews. By mentioning the publicans, Jesus is using them as an example of those who show love and kindness only to their own kind. He challenges his followers to rise above this limited view of love and extend it to everyone, regardless of their social status or relationship to them.

The context of these verses is important for understanding their significance. During Jesus' time, the Jewish society was highly stratified, with distinct social, religious, and political boundaries. People were expected to show love and respect to those within their own social group, but were not expected to extend it to those outside of it. Jesus, however, challenges this notion by emphasizing the need for a universal love that transcends social boundaries. It is a call to his followers to embody the radical love that he himself demonstrated throughout his ministry.

The symbolism in these verses lies in the contrast between the expected behavior and the behavior that Jesus is calling for. By using the publicans as an example, Jesus is highlighting the societal norms and expectations of love and kindness. The publicans were known for their divisive and corrupt practices, and were not seen as role models for moral behavior. However, Jesus is pointing out that even these outcasts are capable of showing love and kindness to those who are close to them. This challenges his followers to do the same, to love and greet even those who may not be like them or who may not reciprocate their love.

The deeper meaning of these verses is a call for a radical, transformative love that goes beyond the comfortable boundaries of social norms. Jesus is challenging his followers to embody a love that transcends prejudices, biases, and personal interests. It is a call to love and greet others unconditionally, without expecting anything in return. This kind of love is reflective of God's love for all people, regardless of their status or behavior. It is a love that seeks to break down barriers and bring people together in unity and harmony.

In conclusion, Matthew 5:46-47 in the King James Version of the Bible is a powerful reminder of the transformative power of love and kindness. It challenges believers to embody a love that goes beyond the expected norms and boundaries, and to greet others with a love that reflects the unconditional love of God. It is a call to break down societal barriers and to show love and kindness to all, regardless of their background or relationship to us. Jesus' teachings in these verses continue to inspire and challenge believers to embody a love that transcends boundaries and transforms lives.