What does Matthew 7:8 mean?
"For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." - Matthew 7:8

Matthew 7:8 from the King James Version of the Bible states, "For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." This verse is part of Jesus' sermon on the mount, where he teaches his disciples and the crowd about various aspects of the Christian life and the kingdom of God.
The verse is part of a larger passage where Jesus encourages his followers to ask, seek, and knock in prayer and in their relationship with God. He is teaching them about the importance of persistence and faith in their pursuit of God's will and provision. In the verses preceding Matthew 7:8, Jesus admonishes his followers to ask for what they need, seek the kingdom of God and His righteousness, and knock on the door of heaven for it to be opened to them. He reassures them that God is a loving and generous Father who desires to give good gifts to His children.
The theme of persistence and faith in prayer is central to the message of Matthew 7:8. The verse reminds believers that their heavenly Father is ready and willing to answer their prayers, and they should not lose heart or become discouraged in their pursuit of God's will. By using the imagery of asking, seeking, and knocking, Jesus emphasizes the need for continual and fervent prayer, as well as active seeking and pursuit of God's presence and provision.
The context of this verse is important for understanding its significance. In the verses preceding Matthew 7:8, Jesus warns his followers about false prophets and the need for discernment in spiritual matters. He contrasts the narrow gate that leads to life with the broad road that leads to destruction, cautioning them to choose the path of righteousness and faithfulness. Therefore, when Jesus speaks about asking, seeking, and knocking in verse 8, he is emphasizing the need for sincere and genuine communication with God, as well as the diligent pursuit of His will and His kingdom.
Symbolism in Matthew 7:8 can be seen in the imagery of asking, seeking, and knocking. The act of asking represents petitioning God for His help and provision. It reflects the humility and dependence of believers on their heavenly Father for all their needs. Seeking symbolizes the intentional and active pursuit of God's presence, guidance, and will. It signifies a heart that desires to know and follow God more deeply. Knocking represents the perseverance and faith required in prayer and in the believer's relationship with God. It signifies the determination to persist in seeking God's favor and to trust in His timing and wisdom.
Overall, Matthew 7:8 is a powerful and encouraging verse that reminds believers of the faithfulness and goodness of God. It encourages them to persevere in prayer and in their relationship with God, assuring them that their heavenly Father hears their requests, is present to be found, and opens the door of His kingdom to those who seek Him. The verse challenges Christians to have a steadfast and unwavering faith in God's willingness to answer their prayers and to provide for their needs. It also serves as a reminder of the importance of seeking God's will and His kingdom above all else. In a world filled with distractions and temptations, this verse calls believers to remain focused on pursuing and aligning their lives with God's purposes.
Have questions about Matthew 7:8?
Dive deeper into this scripture with Bible Chat — an AI-powered tool for exploring God's Word through conversation. Ask questions, get context, and grow in your understanding of the Bible.
Get Our Apps
Matthew 7:8 Artwork
Matthew 7:8 - "For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened."
"For every one that asketh receiveth; and he that seeketh findeth; and to him that knocketh it shall be opened." - Matthew 7:8
Matthew 8:7 - "And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him."
Matthew 7:7-8 - "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and the door will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and the one who seeks finds, and to the one who knocks, the door will be opened."
"And Jesus saith unto him, I will come and heal him." - Matthew 8:7
Matthew 7:7
Matthew 8:13
Matthew 8:13
Matthew 8:13
Matthew 8:32
Matthew 8:32
Matthew 8:32
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 24:8
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 7:13-14
Matthew 13:8
matthew 8:28
Matthew 7:13
Matthew 7:12
Matthew 7:12
matthew 7:23