Matthew 6: Seek to eat , drink and be married to Jesus

I once heard a 30 minute sermon on this verse that, except in some very general and obscure remarks near the end, and only in a superficial way, addressed the meaning of the verse.

Discuss: As a teacher, you give an essay exam to a student limited to three pages. The student writes five interesting pages but nowhere answers that question. What grade would you give the student? Can you explain the grade to the student?

Discuss: You think you are doing many good works. But the good works are not exactly what Jesus asks? What grade might Jesus give you? Does Jesus grade on a curve?

Let us investigate the verse, but first, a song based on this verse.

The hymn "Seek ye first" is a popular praise song from 1972 by Karen Lafferty. Karen wrote the song in 1971 after a Bible Study on Matthew 6:33 at Calvary Chapel in Costa Mesa, CA

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The words are from this verse. Over time, others added additional verses from other scriptures.

More: Song: Seek ye first

Seek ye first the kingdom of God
And His righteousness;
And all these things shall be added unto you.
Hallelu, Hallelujah!

Interestingly, verse two of the praise song "Seek ye first" will be seen to be related to Matthew 6:33 on which the song's name is based.

The general approach to the meaning of any verse is the following.

Determine the meaning of the words of the verse. This may entail looking at the original Greek or Hebrew of the words.
In the process of determining the meaning, identify clarify difficult words or phrases.
Look at the context of the verse in that chapter and/or in the preceding or following chapter.
Look at the context of the verse in relation to the entire Bible.

Whenever multiple meanings are possible, provide them and the considerations for each of them.

I find it best to ignore any commentary about that verse until after the above investigations. This is similar to the guidance of teachers who tell you to not look at the "approved solution" of a problem until after you have arrived at what you think is a valid solution to the problem.

Let us start by looking at the words in the verse.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The "but" introduces a difference from a previous idea. Examples:

Do this, but not this.
Eat dessert, but do not eat too much dessert.

This means that after defining the words in this verse, the previous verses need to be investigated. In this verse, the "but" is not in the Greek but is inferred from other words in the verse (see below).

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

In general, the following holds in computer science (and other areas).

A "search" is looking for something that may or may not exist.
A "seek" is looking for something that is known to exist, but the exact location of that something is not known.

One "searches" a list for an item to see if that item is in the list.

One "seeks" a sector on a data drive to find that sector that is known to exist.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The idea of "first" usually means that there is something to do after doing this. Examples:

First open the box, then this will happen or then do this.
First start the car, then this will happen or then do this.

After defining the words in this verse, the following verses will need to be investigated. Those verses (chapter 7) deal with judging, beams and motes, etc, with the important theme of "love your neighbor as yourself".

More: Matthew 7: Search the scriptures

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The "kingdom of God" usually refers to what most people call "heaven".

In Matthew, the "kingdom of heaven" or "kingdom of the air" does not appear to be the same as the "kingdom of God".

More: more...

The "righteousness" of God has to do with being "right" with God by doing what God considers "right".

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

You need the right definition of righteousness to be right! What's left is to be left behind.

The "kingdom of God" and "righteousness" are connected with the conjunction "and".

The conjunction or intersection of A & B or A and B is true=1 if both of A and B are true=1, else the result is false=0.

Venn diagrams	Expression tree	Extended truth table
		A B \| A & B ----------- 0 0 \| 0 0 0 0 1 \| 0 0 1 1 0 \| 1 0 0 1 1 \| 1 1 1 The result is in the column under the "&" operator.

More: Logical conjunction

The word "and" is a conjunction in that both parts (on either side) are needed.

Example: You need to buy milk and cookies at the store.
Distribute as follows.

You need to buy milk at the store and
you need to buy cookies at the store.

You need to do both.

More: Logical conjunction

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The verse idea can be distributed as follows.

Seek the kingdom of God and
seek the righteousness of God.

The comma is added in the KJV (King James Version) but is not in the Greek.

In Hebrew (or Aramaic) thought, saying similar things twice tends to avoid misunderstanding the meaning of the words.

If you are paid by the hour and work ten more hours, then the wage for "ten more hours" will be "added unto you".

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The result is that something will be "added unto you" meaning that you will then get something that you would otherwise not get.

There is something extra. What is it?

The key part of the verse is "all these things". The other parts of the verse are fairly obvious. What are "these things"?

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The word "these" is a pronoun where a pronoun is a substitute for a noun. The word "these" is plural. The word "things" is not in the Greek.

More: Pronouns

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

To determine the meaning of "all these" with things inferred, one must investigate the previous verses to determine the meaning of those things.

This appears to be why "but" was added at the start of the verse when it is not in the Greek.

Let us back up to verse 24 which identifies two choices of who to serve.

God
Man as a god (mammon)

You may have heard that "the spirit inside us is the god who defines us".

Which "spirit"?
Which "god"?

Saying this without clarification is a deceptive way to tell people what they want to hear.

Before verse 24 is the Lord's Prayer and verses about storing up treasure in heaven.

Matthew 6:24 No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. [kjv]

ουδεις δυναται δυσιν κυριοις δουλευειν η γαρ τον ενα μισησει και τον ετερον αγαπησει η ενος ανθεξεται και του ετερου καταφρονησει ου δυνασθε θεω δουλευειν και μαμωνα [gnt]

Jesus points out two mutually exclusive choices: God vs. "mammon".

true Father God.
false Mother (mama, harlot) god (mammon), sand (ammo).

[without spots, opinion, glory, statement or question]

The historical usage of "mammon" in Hebrew is that of a confidence in one's own ability to do things (independent of God). That is a central idea of humanism. The modern Hebrew definition is that of "wealth".

The ancient Greek word "καταφρόνησις" ≈ "think badly of, hold in contempt, despise". Note that this can be done without the other person knowing. False leaders, false teachers, etc., will show an outward appearance that is different from their inside heart.

There appear to be some logical translation issues of what Jesus said. Let us investigate.

More: Matthew 6:24 A wealth of logical ideas on mammon

Matthew 6:24

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KJV: No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon.

Greek: ουδεις δυναται δυσιν κυριοις δουλευειν η γαρ τον ενα μισησει και τον ετερον αγαπησει η ενος ανθεξεται και του ετερου καταφρονησει ου δυνασθε θεω δουλευειν και μαμμωνα μαμωνα

A key appears to be what one should wear (put on), what one should eat and what one should drink.

Matthew 6:25 Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? [kjv]

In the KJV English, "meat" is "food". The Greek word for "life" is that of "soul".

Is there is something "extra" here that could be "added unto you"?

Matthew 6:25

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KJV: Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment?

Greek: δια τουτο λεγω υμιν μη μεριμνατε τη ψυχη υμων τι φαγητε και η τι πιητε μηδε τω σωματι υμων τι ενδυσησθε ουχι η ψυχη πλειον εστιν της τροφης και το σωμα του ενδυματος

Matthew 6:26 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? [kjv]

In the code meanings of Jesus, the "birds of the air" are the evil ones. In the "kingdom of heaven" or "kingdom of the air" one must deal with the "birds of the air". The birds cause issues during the growing season. The KJV uses "better than" while the Greek is "different than".

More: more...

Matthew 6:26

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KJV: 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?

Greek: εμβλεψατε εις τα πετεινα του ουρανου οτι ου σπειρουσιν ουδε θεριζουσιν ουδε συναγουσιν εις αποθηκας και ο πατηρ υμων ο ουρανιος τρεφει αυτα ουχ υμεις μαλλον διαφερετε αυτων

Matthew 6:27 Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? [kjv]

The Greek word for stature always means "age", except for Zacchaeus.

More: Luke 19: A short discussion on stature

More: A cubit discussion at arms length

In Daniel in the writing on the wall, the king's days are "numbered" as a way of measuring time or age.

And which of you by worrying can add a single hour to your span of life? NRSV (New Revised Standard Version)
And who of you by being worried can add a single hour to his life? NASB (New American Standard Bible)

Phrase: "One foot in the grave" (distance with time meaning).
What is the "yardstick" or "ruler" by which age should be measured?

More: Luke 19: A short discussion on stature

Matthew 6:27

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KJV: Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature?

Greek: τις δε εξ υμων μεριμνων δυναται προσθειναι επι την ηλικιαν αυτου πηχυν ενα

Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: [kjv]

και περι ενδυματος τι μεριμνατε καταμαθετε τα κρινα του αγρου πως αυξανουσιν ου ουδε νηθουσιν [gnt]

The Greek word for "raiment" has to do with "putting on" as in "clothes".

The English word "raiment" comes from the Middle English word "arayment" ≈ "raiment" as in being "arrayed".

Matthew 6:28

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KJV: And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

Hebrew: וללבוש למה תדאגו התבוננו נא אל שושני השדה הצמחות אינן עמלות ואינן טות׃

Greek: και περι ενδυματος τι μεριμνατε καταμαθετε τα κρινα του αγρου πως αυξανει αυξανουσιν ου κοπια κοπιωσιν ουδε νηθει νηθουσιν

There are various schools of though on whether Jesus spoke Aramaic or Greek. Most educated people in the Roman Empire studied and spoke Latin, Greek and a native language in their area of birth or location, such as Aramaic in Judea.

Many in Judea grew up speaking both from birth. It is likely that Jesus and the disciples knew and spoke both Aramaic and Greek and, perhaps, some Latin. Few could read Hebrew and it was no longer spoken.

Aramaic used the same Hebrew alphabet, without vowels, and with multiple letters having the same or similar sounds. Greek had vowels and pretty much one letter for one sound. Thus, learning to read or write Greek was much easier than reading or writing Aramaic. The inflections in Greek, like any language, are immediately learned by children without any study other than hearing.

More: The languages spoken by Jesus

It is possible that Jesus might have said some things in both Aramaic and Greek even repeating ideas at the same time in one, than another language.

It is also possible that Jesus might have used Greek when he wanted to use play on words, etc., that the religious establishment might not fully understand but that the common people might better understand.

Any play on words or puns have never had to fit existing grammar or spelling rules or even pronunciation rules. They only need to be close enough for others to understand (or grown at).

More: Punishment by punny puns

More: The languages spoken by Jesus

*G1742 *8 ἔνδυμα (en'-doo-mah) : from G1746; apparel (especially the outer robe):--clothing, garment, raiment.

Usage

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ενδυμα *4

Matthew 3:4 ... John had his raiment of camel's hair, ...
Matthew 22:11 ... not on a wedding garment:
Matthew 22:12 ... not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless.
Matthew 28:3 ... lightning, and his raiment white as snow:

ενδυματος *3

Matthew 6:25 ... than meat, and the body than raiment?
Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, ...
Luke 12:23 ... than meat, and the body is more than raiment.

ενδυμασιν

Matthew 7:15 ... you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ...

Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: [kjv]

και περι ενδυματος τι μεριμνατε καταμαθετε τα κρινα του αγρου πως αυξανουσιν ου ουδε νηθουσιν [gnt]

The Greek word for "lily" is a play on words on "judging" as "separating". Solomon was known for his wisdom in judging.

The ancient Greek word "κρίνο" ≈ "lily"
The ancient Greek word "κρίνω" ≈ "separate, distinguish" and often translated as "judge".

This is the topic 7 verses later.

7:1 Judge not, that ye be not judged. [kjv]

More: Matthew 7:1-2 Here comes the judge, but just barley

Matthew 7:1

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KJV: Judge not, that ye be not judged.

Greek: μη κρινετε ινα μη κριθητε

*G2918 *2 κρίνον (kree'-non) : perhaps a prim word; a lily:--lily.

Usage

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κρινα *2

Matthew 6:28 ... for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; ...
Luke 12:27 Consider the lilies how they grow: they toil not, ...

Do "lilies" actually "spin"? Jesus says not.

Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: [kjv]

και περι ενδυματος τι μεριμνατε καταμαθετε τα κρινα του αγρου πως αυξανουσιν ου ουδε νηθουσιν [gnt]

The ancient Greek word "νηθουσιν" ≈ "spin" as used in Matthew 6:33.
The ancient Greek word "νουθεσία" ≈ "warn" with various endings.
The ancient Greek word "νουθετησιν" ≈ "instruct" as a warning as in Proverbs 2:2.

Could Jesus have meant, by play on words, that the lilies do not give warning or proper instruction?

More: Nouthetic counseling: Having peace of mind or giving piece of mind

The ancient Greek word "νήθω" ≈ "spin" which is the source of the modern Greek word "γνέθω" (GHNEH-tho) ≈ "spin".

Colossians 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus: [kjv]

Proverbs 2:2 So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding; [kjv]

your ear shall listen to wisdom; you shall also apply your heart to understanding, and shall apply it to the instruction of your son. [bs3]

Colossians 1:28

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KJV: Whom we preach, warning every man, and teaching every man in all wisdom; that we may present every man perfect in Christ Jesus:

Greek: ον ημεις καταγγελλομεν νουθετουντες παντα ανθρωπον και διδασκοντες παντα ανθρωπον εν παση σοφια ινα παραστησωμεν παντα ανθρωπον τελειον εν χριστω ιησου

*G3560 *8 νουθετέω (noo-thet-eh'-o) : from the same as G3559; to put in mind, i.e. (by implication) to caution or reprove gently:--admonish, warn.

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νουθετων *2

Acts 20:31 ... by the space of three years I ceased not to warn every one night ...
1 Corinthians 4:14 ... my beloved sons I warn you.

νουθετουντες *2

Colossians 1:28 Whom we preach, warning every man, and ...
Colossians 3:16 ... wisdom; teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and ...

νουθετειτε *2

1 Thessalonians 5:14 Now we exhort you, brethren, warn them that are unruly, comfort ...
2 Thessalonians 3:15 ... as an enemy, but admonish him as a brother.

νουθετειν

Romans 15:14 ... knowledge, able also to admonish one another.

νουθετουντας

1 Thessalonians 5:12 ... in the Lord, and admonish you;

Proverbs 2:2

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KJV: So that thou incline thine ear unto wisdom, and apply thine heart to understanding;

Hebrew: להקשיב לחכמה אזנך תטה לבך לתבונה׃

Greek: υπακουσεται σοφιας το ους σου και παραβαλεις καρδιαν σου εις συνεσιν παραβαλεις δε αυτην επι νουθετησιν τω υιω σου

Brenton: your ear shall listen to wisdom; you shall also apply your heart to understanding, and shall apply it to the instruction of your son.

*G3514 *2 νήθω (nay'-tho) : from neo (of like meaning); to spin:--spin.

Usage

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νηθουσιν

Matthew 6:28 ... they toil not, neither do they spin:

νηθει

Luke 12:27 ... they grow: they toil not, they spin not; and yet I say ...

Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: [kjv]

και περι ενδυματος τι μεριμνατε καταμαθετε τα κρινα του αγρου πως αυξανουσιν ου ουδε νηθουσιν [gnt]

The Greek word for "thought" has to do with the "cares" and "concerns" of the riches of this world from the first kingdom parable in Matthew 13.

The Greek word for "toil" is the source of the English word "copious".

*G837 *22 αὐξάνω (owx-an'-o) : a prolonged form of a primary verb; to grow ("wax"), i.e. enlarge (literal or figurative, active or passive):--grow (up), (give the) increase.

Usage

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ηυξανεν *6

Luke 1:80 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, ...
Luke 2:40 And the child grew, and waxed strong in spirit, ...
Acts 6:7 And the word of God increased; and the number of the disciples ...
Acts 12:24 But the word of God grew and multiplied.
Acts 19:20 So mightily grew the word of God and prevailed.
1 Corinthians 3:6 ... watered; but God gave the increase.

αυξανομενον *2

Mark 4:8 ... fruit that sprang up and increased; and brought forth, some ...
Colossians 1:6 Which is come unto you, as it is in all ...

ηυξησεν *2

Luke 13:19 ... his garden; and it grew, and waxed a great ...
Acts 7:17 ... had sworn to Abraham, the people grew and multiplied in Egypt,

αυξει *2

Ephesians 2:21 ... all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple ...
Colossians 2:19 ... having nourishment ministered, and knit together, increaseth with the increase of God.

αυξανουσιν

Matthew 6:28 ... the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

αυξηθη

Matthew 13:32 ... seeds: but when it is grown, it is the greatest among herbs, ...

αυξανειν

John 3:30 He must increase, but I must decrease.

αυξανων

1 Corinthians 3:7 ... he that watereth; but God that giveth the increase.

αυξησει

2 Corinthians 9:10 ... your seed sown, and increase the fruits of your righteousness;)

αυξανομενης

2 Corinthians 10:15 ... hope, when your faith is increased, that we shall be enlarged by you ...

αυξησωμεν

Ephesians 4:15 But speaking the truth in love, may grow up into him in all things, ...

αυξανομενοι

Colossians 1:10 ... good work, and increasing in the knowledge of God;

αυξηθητε

1 Peter 2:2 ... milk of the word, that ye may grow thereby:

αυξανετε

2 Peter 3:18 But grow in grace, and in the knowledge ...

*G2872 *22 κοπιάω (kop-ee-ah'-o) : from a derivative of G2873; to feel fatigue; by implication, to work hard:--(bestow) labour, toil, be wearied.

Usage

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κοπιωντες *2

Matthew 11:28 ... me, all ye that labour and are heavy laden, and I ...
1 Timothy 5:17 ... of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine.

κοπιωντας *2

Acts 20:35 ... all things, how that so labouring ye ought to support the weak, ...
1 Thessalonians 5:12 ... you, brethren, to know them which labour among you, and ...

εκοπιασεν *2

Romans 16:6 Greet Mary, who bestowed much labour on us.
Romans 16:12 ... and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.

κοπιωμεν *2

1 Corinthians 4:12 And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, ...
1 Timothy 4:10 For therefore we both labour and suffer reproach, ...

εκοπιασα *2

1 Corinthians 15:10 ... not in vain; but I laboured more abundantly than they all: ...
Philippians 2:16 ... in vain, neither laboured in vain.

κοπιωσιν

Matthew 6:28 ... of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin:

κοπιασαντες

Luke 5:5 ... said unto him, Master, we have toiled all the night, and have taken ...

κεκοπιακως

John 4:6 ... there. Jesus therefore, being wearied with his journey, sat ...

κεκοπιακατε

John 4:38 ... that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, ...

κεκοπιακασιν

John 4:38 ... that whereon ye bestowed no labour: other men laboured, ...

κοπιωσας

Romans 16:12 ... and Tryphosa, who labour in the Lord. Salute the beloved Persis, which laboured much in the Lord.

κοπιωντι

1 Corinthians 16:16 ... that helpeth with us, and laboureth.

κεκοπιακα

Galatians 4:11 I am afraid of you, lest I have bestowed upon you labour in vain.

κοπιατω

Ephesians 4:28 ... but rather let him labour, working with ...

κοπιω

Colossians 1:29 Whereunto I also labour, striving according to ...

κοπιωντα

2 Timothy 2:6 The husbandman that laboureth must be first partaker of the fruits.

κεκοπιακες

Revelation 2:3 ... my name's sake hast laboured, and hast not fainted.

Matthew 6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [kjv]

λεγω δε υμιν οτι ουδε σολομων εν παση τη δοξη αυτου περιεβαλετο ως εν τουτων [gnt]

The Greek word for "arrayed" has to do with "putting on" or "surrounding oneself" is in putting on the full armor of God (Paul). The Greek word for "glory" originally meant "opinion".

More: The word glory in Latin and Greek

Solomon was known for his wisdom. He was also known for his heavy taxation in order to raise revenue for his palace and extravagant living.

In other places in the Gospels (omitted) Jesus criticizes the religious establishment for not working, putting heavy burdens on others, etc.

Matthew 6:28 And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: [kjv]

και περι ενδυματος τι μεριμνατε καταμαθετε τα κρινα του αγρου πως αυξανουσιν ου ουδε νηθουσιν [gnt]

6:29 And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. [kjv]

λεγω δε υμιν οτι ουδε σολομων εν παση τη δοξη αυτου περιεβαλετο ως εν τουτων [gnt]

The Greek word for "lily" is a play on words on "judging" as "separating". Solomon was known for his wisdom in judging.

The ancient Greek word "κρίνο" ≈ "lily".
The ancient Greek word "κρίνω" ≈ "separate, distinguish" and often translated as "judge".

The Greek translated as "glory" is that of "opinion".

More: Whether this or that: What is your opinion on glory?

More: The word glory in Latin and Greek

Here is an analogy using double-meanings in English to refer to government practices.

The government is known for "red tape" to slow down and burden processes.
A red type of pansy is a flower. Call it a "red-tape pansy".
A "pansy" is a term to refer to a "wimp".

Analogy: Consider these red-tape pansies [judger's] of the world. They increase, they do not work, they spend. Yet even George Washington in all his glory (opinion) was not surrounded (clothed) by red-tape pansies [judger's] such as these (current red-tape pansies).

Jesus will now transition from "lilies" (such as "pansies") to the "grass" or possibly "fruit of the grass".

Matthew 6:29

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KJV: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these.

Greek: λεγω δε υμιν οτι ουδε σολομων εν παση τη δοξη αυτου περιεβαλετο ως εν τουτων

Matthew 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? [kjv]

ει δε τον χορτον του αγρου σημερον οντα και αυριον εις κλιβανον βαλλομενον ο θεος ουτως αμφιεννυσιν ου πολλω μαλλον υμας ολιγοπιστοι [gnt]

The "field" in the first kingdom parable of Matthew 13 is defined by Jesus as the "world" or, more precisely, the "people in the world".

The "grass of the field" can be either "weeds" or "tares" or it can be "fruit of the grass" is in "wheat". In the second kingdom parable of Matthew 13, Jesus has the "weeds" are bound at the end of the age and burned.

Matthew 6:30

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KJV: Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Greek: ει δε τον χορτον του αγρου σημερον οντα και αυριον εις κλιβανον βαλλομενον ο θεος ουτως αμφιεννυσιν ου πολλω μαλλον υμας ολιγοπιστοι

Is that which is cast into the "oven" good or bad?

Matthew 6:30 Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? [kjv]

The "fruit of the grass", as in "wheat", is crushed, winnowed, stored and then baked in an "oven" to create something good such as "bread". At least (yeast) this is not even (oven) a half-baked idea!

Aside: The English word "flour" was created from the English word "flower" to distinguish the "fruit of the grass" from a colorful and nice looking plant that was, in general, not edible.

James 1:10 But the rich, in that he is made low: because as the flower of the grass he shall pass away. [kjv]

ο δε πλουσιος εν τη ταπεινωσει αυτου οτι ως ανθος χορτου παρελευσεται [gnt]

The "flower" or "blossom" of the "grass" is the grain/seed and the primary meaning of the Greek word for "fruit".

"ἄνθος" ≈ "blossom, bloom"which is the source of the English word "anthology".

At one time, the word "flower" referred to both the blooming pretty flower and the ground "flour" which was the "blooming" part of the wheat. The English word "flour" was introduced to differentiate between the two meanings.

The ancient Greek word "ἄκανθος" ≈ "thorny plant" can be thought of as "opposite" of "blossom" but comes from "ἀκή" ≈ "thorn" as a "point" and "ἄνθος" ≈ "blossom, bloom". This plant may have a "flower" but also has "thorns".

More: Matthew 21:41-45 Winnowing the wheat and chaff to stone-ground powder

*G2823 *2 κλίβανος (klib'-an-os) : of uncertain derivation; an earthen pot used for baking in:--oven.

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κλιβανον *2

Matthew 6:30 ... to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more ...
Luke 12:28 ... to morrow is cast into the oven; how much more will he clothe you, O ye of little faith?

Matthew 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? [kjv]

μη ουν μεριμνησητε λεγοντες τι φαγωμεν η τι πιωμεν η τι περιβαλωμεθα [gnt]

Matthew 6:31

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KJV: Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed?

Greek: μη ουν μεριμνησητε λεγοντες τι φαγωμεν η τι πιωμεν η τι περιβαλωμεθα

A worldly saying is "eat, drink and be merry" with the ending being "for tomorrow we die". The source of this saying is from a short parable by Jesus in Luke 12.
In the parable in Luke 12, Luke describes the sayings of a rich man who builds barns to store his worldly gain, and who dies that night.

Luke 12:16 And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully: [kjv]

Luke 12:16

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KJV: And he spake a parable unto them, saying, The ground of a certain rich man brought forth plentifully:

Greek: ειπεν δε παραβολην προς αυτους λεγων ανθρωπου τινος πλουσιου ευφορησεν η χωρα

Luke 12:17 And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits? [kjv]

Note that the rich man does not consider distributing "fruits" to those who might be in need.

1 Timothy 6:7 For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry no thing out. [kjv]

Luke 12:17

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KJV: And he thought within himself, saying, What shall I do, because I have no room where to bestow my fruits?

Greek: και διελογιζετο εν εαυτω αυτω λεγων τι ποιησω οτι ουκ εχω που συναξω τους καρπους μου

1 Timothy 6:7

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KJV: For we brought nothing into this world, and it is certain we can carry no thing out.

Greek: ουδεν γαρ εισηνεγκαμεν εις τον κοσμον δηλον οτι ουδε εξενεγκειν τι δυναμεθα

Luke 12:18 And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods. [kjv]

More: Luke 12: Barn-burner storage

Matthew 6:20 But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal: [kjv]

More: Matthew 6:19-21: A treasury of treasures of which to treasure

Luke 12:18

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KJV: And he said, This will I do: I will pull down my barns, and build greater; and there will I bestow all my fruits and my goods.

Greek: και ειπεν τουτο ποιησω καθελω μου τας αποθηκας και μειζονας οικοδομησω και συναξω εκει παντα τα γενηματα μου τον σιτον και τα αγαθα μου

Matthew 6:20

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KJV: But lay up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust doth corrupt, and where thieves do not break through nor steal:

Greek: θησαυριζετε δε υμιν θησαυρους εν ουρανω οπου ουτε σης ουτε βρωσις αφανιζει και οπου κλεπται ου διορυσσουσιν ουδε κλεπτουσιν

Wessex: Gold-hordiað eow soðlice gold-hordes on heofenan. þaer naþer öm ne mohðe hyt ne fornymð. & þaer þeofes hit ne delfað ne ne forsteleð.

Luke 12:19 And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry. [kjv]

This part of the saying is in Ecclesiastes 8:15.

Ecclesiastes 8:15 Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun. [kjv]

Luke 12:19

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KJV: And I will say to my soul, Soul, thou hast much goods laid up for many years; take thine ease, eat, drink, and be merry.

Greek: και ερω τη ψυχη μου ψυχη εχεις πολλα αγαθα κειμενα κειμενα εις ετη πολλα αναπαυου φαγε πιε ευφραινου

Ecclesiastes 8:15

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KJV: Then I commended mirth, because a man hath no better thing under the sun, than to eat, and to drink, and to be merry: for that shall abide with him of his labour the days of his life, which God giveth him under the sun.

Hebrew: ושבחתי אני את השמחה אשר אין טוב לאדם תחת השמש כי אם לאכול ולשתות ולשמוח והוא ילונו בעמלו ימי חייו אשר נתן לו האלהים תחת השמש׃

Greek: και επηνεσα εγω συν την ευφροσυνην οτι ουκ εστιν αγαθον τω ανθρωπω υπο τον ηλιον οτι ει μη του φαγειν και του πιειν και του ευφρανθηναι και αυτο συμπροσεσται αυτω εν μοχθω αυτου ημερας ζωης αυτου οσας εδωκεν αυτω ο θεος υπο τον ηλιον

Brenton: Then I praised mirth, because there is no good for a man under the sun, but to eat, and drink, and be merry: and this shall attend him in his labour all the days of his life, which God has given him under the sun.

Luke 12:20 But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided? [kjv]

The "soul" is the same Greek word used as "life" a back in verse 25. The verse appears to be the end of "for tomorrow we die" part of the English saying "eat, drink and be merry". This had been said by Isaiah.

Isaiah 22:13 And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die. [kjv]

Luke 12:20

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KJV: But God said unto him, Thou fool, this night thy soul shall be required of thee: then whose shall those things be, which thou hast provided?

Greek: ειπεν δε αυτω ο θεος αφρων ταυτη τη νυκτι την ψυχην σου απαιτουσιν αιτουσιν απο σου α δε ητοιμασας τινι εσται

Isaiah 22:13

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KJV: And behold joy and gladness, slaying oxen, and killing sheep, eating flesh, and drinking wine: let us eat and drink; for to morrow we shall die.

Hebrew: והנה ששון ושמחה הרג בקר ושחט צאן אכל בשר ושתות יין אכול ושתו כי מחר נמות׃

Greek: αυτοι δε εποιησαντο ευφροσυνην και αγαλλιαμα σφαζοντες μοσχους και θυοντες προβατα ωστε φαγειν κρεα και πιειν οινον λεγοντες φαγωμεν και πιωμεν αυριον γαρ αποθνησκομεν

Paul repeats the thought in 1 Corinthians 15:32.

1 Corinthians 15:32 If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die. [kjv]

1 Corinthians 15:32

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KJV: If after the manner of men I have fought with beasts at Ephesus, what advantageth it me, if the dead rise not? let us eat and drink; for to morrow we die.

Greek: ει κατα ανθρωπον εθηριομαχησα εν εφεσω τι μοι το οφελος ει νεκροι ουκ εγειρονται φαγωμεν και πιωμεν αυριον γαρ αποθνησκομεν

Returning to Matthew, the "gentiles" seek those things.

Matthew 6:31 Therefore take no thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? [kjv]

μη ουν μεριμνησητε λεγοντες τι φαγωμεν η τι πιωμεν η τι περιβαλωμεθα [gnt]

That is, clothing (what you put on), food and drink.

6:32 (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. [kjv]

Matthew 6:32

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KJV: (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things.

Greek: παντα γαρ ταυτα τα εθνη επιζητει επιζητουσιν οιδεν γαρ ο πατηρ υμων ο ουρανιος οτι χρηζετε τουτων απαντων

We now have the verse that started this investigation.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

What are "these things" that will be "added unto you"?

Raiment (clothing, what you put on)
Food
Drink

Matthew 6:33

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KJV: But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.

Greek: ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν του θεου και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν

We must recognize that Jesus often uses code words that have both literal and other meanings. Might that be the case here?

More: Parables and secret codes used and explained by Jesus

The Greek word for "clothes" means, literally, to "put on". What is to be "put on"? How about Jesus and righteousness.

Galatians 3:27 For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ. [kjv]

Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness. [kjv]

Galatians 3:27

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KJV: For as many of you as have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

Greek: οσοι γαρ εις χριστον εβαπτισθητε χριστον ενεδυσασθε

Ephesians 4:24

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KJV: And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness.

Greek: και ενδυσασθαι τον καινον ανθρωπον τον κατα θεον κτισθεντα εν δικαιοσυνη και οσιοτητι της αληθειας

*G1746 *28 ἐνδύω (en-doo'-o) : from G1722 and G1416 (in the sense of sinking into a garment); to invest with clothing (literally or figuratively):--array, clothe (with), endue, have (put) on.

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ενδυσησθε *4

Matthew 6:25 ... your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life ...
Mark 6:9 ... with sandals; and not put on two coats.
Luke 12:22 ... neither for the body, what ye shall put on.
Luke 24:49 ... of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.

ενδυσαμενοι *4

2 Corinthians 5:3 If so be that being clothed we shall not be found naked.
Ephesians 6:14 ... with truth, and having on the breastplate of righteousness;
Colossians 3:10 And have put on the new man, which is renewed in knowledge ...
1 Thessalonians 5:8 ... who are of the day, be sober, putting on the breastplate of faith and ...

ενδυσασθε *3

Romans 13:14 But put ye on the Lord Jesus Christ, and ...
Ephesians 6:11 Put on the whole armour of God, that ye may be able ...
Colossians 3:12 Put on therefore, as the elect of God, holy ...

ενδυσασθαι *3

1 Corinthians 15:53 ... corruptible must put on incorruption, and this mortal must put on immortality.
Ephesians 4:24 And that ye put on the new man, which after ...

ενδεδυμενον *2

Matthew 22:11 ... there a man which had not on a wedding garment:
Revelation 1:13 ... one like unto the Son of man, clothed with a garment down to the foot, and girt ...

ενεδυσαν *2

Matthew 27:31 ... from him, and put his own raiment on him, and ...
Mark 15:20 ... from him, and put his own clothes on him, ...

ενδυσηται *2

1 Corinthians 15:54 ... this corruptible shall have put on incorruption, and this mortal shall have put on immortality, then ...

ενδεδυμενοι *2

Revelation 15:6 ... having the seven plagues, clothed in pure and white ...
Revelation 19:14 ... upon white horses, clothed in fine linen, white and clean.

ενδεδυμενος

Mark 1:6 And John was clothed with camel's hair, and ...

ενεδυσατο

Luke 8:27 And when he went forth to land, ...

ενδυσατε

Luke 15:22 ... robe, and put it on him; and ...

ενδυσαμενος

Acts 12:21 And upon a set day Herod, arrayed in royal apparel, sat ...

ενδυσωμεθα

Romans 13:12 ... the works of darkness, and let us put on the armour of light.

ενεδυσασθε

Galatians 3:27 ... have been baptized into Christ have put on Christ.

Jesus uses the analogy of a wedding garment in Matthew 22. By tradition, the groom (Jesus) provides the garment for the guests (the church as believers).

Matthew 22:11 And when the king came in to see the guests, he saw there a man which had not on a wedding garment: [kjv]

εισελθων δε ο βασιλευς θεασασθαι τους ανακειμενους ειδεν εκει ανθρωπον ουκ ενδεδυμενον ενδυμα γαμου [gnt]

22:12 And he saith unto him, Friend, how camest thou in hither not having a wedding garment? And he was speechless. [kjv]

και λεγει αυτω εταιρε πως εισηλθες ωδε μη εχων ενδυμα γαμου ο δε εφιμωθη [gnt]

More: Matthew 22:1-14 Parable of the wedding feast

One must put on the garment of righteousness and seek the kingdom of God to avoid being cast into the outer darkness.

Matthew 22:13 Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth. [kjv]

22:14 For many are called, but few are chosen. [kjv]

More: Election callings

Matthew 22:13

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KJV: Then said the king to the servants, Bind him hand and foot, and take him away, and cast him into outer darkness; there shall be weeping and gnashing of teeth.

Greek: τοτε ειπεν ο βασιλευς ειπεν τοις διακονοις δησαντες αυτου ποδας και χειρας αρατε αυτον και εκβαλετε αυτον εις το σκοτος το εξωτερον εκει εσται ο κλαυθμος και ο βρυγμος των οδοντων

Matthew 22:14

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KJV: For many are called, but few are chosen.

Greek: πολλοι γαρ εισιν κλητοι ολιγοι δε εκλεκτοι

John tells us what Jesus says we should eat and drink.

John 6:53 Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you. [kjv]

6:54 Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day. [kjv]

Is Jesus using any "code words"? What might those code words mean?

John 6:53

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KJV: Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Except ye eat the flesh of the Son of man, and drink his blood, ye have no life in you.

Greek: ειπεν ουν αυτοις ο ιησους αμην αμην λεγω υμιν εαν μη φαγητε την σαρκα του υιου του ανθρωπου και πιητε αυτου το αιμα ουκ εχετε ζωην εν εαυτοις

John 6:54

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KJV: Whoso eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, hath eternal life; and I will raise him up at the last day.

Greek: ο τρωγων μου την σαρκα και πινων μου το αιμα εχει ζωην αιωνιον και εγω καγω αναστησω αυτον τη εσχατη ημερα

Jesus continues in John.

John 6:55 For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed. [kjv]

6:56 He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him. [kjv]

John 6:55

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KJV: For my flesh is meat indeed, and my blood is drink indeed.

Greek: η γαρ σαρξ μου αληθως αληθης εστιν βρωσις και το αιμα μου αληθως αληθης εστιν ποσις

John 6:56

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KJV: He that eateth my flesh, and drinketh my blood, dwelleth in me, and I in him.

Greek: ο τρωγων μου την σαρκα και πινων μου το αιμα εν εμοι μενει καγω εν αυτω

Some disciples thought this saying to hard.

John 6:66 From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him. [kjv]

Many left. They did not understand the codes that Jesus was using. Jesus explains at the Last Supper.

The Romans would use this eating of the body and drinking of the blood to spread the rumor and accuse the Christians of cannibalism as a basis for persecution.

John 6:66

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KJV: From that time many of his disciples went back, and walked no more with him.

Greek: εκ τουτου πολλοι απηλθον εκ των μαθητων αυτου απηλθον εις τα οπισω και ουκετι μετ αυτου περιεπατουν

Jesus explains the codes of eating his body and drinking his blood at the Last Supper.

Matthew 26:26 And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body. [kjv]

The body is broken for you just as the bread is broken for you. The bread represents doctrine or rules. Jesus broke the rules that if you sin, you must die. This part is rarely mentioned, if at all, in sermons.

More: Thank you for giving thanks and for Thanksgiving

Matthew 26:26

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KJV: And as they were eating, Jesus took bread, and blessed it, and brake it, and gave it to the disciples, and said, Take, eat; this is my body.

Greek: εσθιοντων δε αυτων λαβων ο ιησους τον αρτον και ευλογησας εκλασεν και εδιδου δους τοις μαθηταις και ειπεν λαβετε φαγετε τουτο εστιν το σωμα μου

The blood represents life.

Matthew 26:27 And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it; [kjv]

26:28 For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins. [kjv]

The "Eucharist" in both ancient and modern Greek is the word for "thank you" and means, literally, a "good favor" or "good grace".

More: Thank you for giving thanks and for Thanksgiving

Matthew 26:27

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KJV: And he took the cup, and gave thanks, and gave it to them, saying, Drink ye all of it;

Greek: και λαβων το ποτηριον και ευχαριστησας εδωκεν αυτοις λεγων πιετε εξ αυτου παντες

Matthew 26:28

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KJV: For this is my blood of the new testament, which is shed for many for the remission of sins.

Greek: τουτο γαρ εστιν το αιμα μου το της καινης διαθηκης το περι πολλων εκχυνομενον εκχυννομενον εις αφεσιν αμαρτιων

At the well in John 4, Jesus talks of two kinds of water.

John 4:13 Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again: [kjv]

4:14 But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life. [kjv]

Water is required for life (as we know it). Life cannot arise in water. Simple reason: water is universal solvent. More precise reason: involves a reversible chemical reaction of water and peptide bonds of amino acids.

John 4:13

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KJV: Jesus answered and said unto her, Whosoever drinketh of this water shall thirst again:

Greek: απεκριθη ο ιησους και ειπεν αυτη πας ο πινων εκ του υδατος τουτου διψησει παλιν

John 4:14

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KJV: But whosoever drinketh of the water that I shall give him shall never thirst; but the water that I shall give him shall be in him a well of water springing up into everlasting life.

Greek: ος δ αν πιη εκ του υδατος ου εγω δωσω αυτω ου μη διψηση διψησει εις τον αιωνα αλλα το υδωρ ο δωσω αυτω γενησεται εν αυτω πηγη υδατος αλλομενου εις ζωην αιωνιον

We are now in a position to put the parts of Matthew 6:33 together.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

The "all these things" can refer to (at least) two things.

Those things that the gentiles seek - physical food, water, clothes.
Those things that the followers of God should seek - spiritual food, water, clothes.

Matthew 6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. [kjv]

μη ουν μεριμνησητε εις την αυριον η γαρ αυριον μεριμνησει αυτης αρκετον τη ημερα η κακια αυτης [gnt]

This last verse in Matthew 6 connects and sets up Matthew 7 with "judge not", "beams and motes", "wide and narrow gates", "houses on sand and rock", etc.

Matthew 6: Love God (seek His righteousness)
Matthew 7: Love neighbor as yourself.

... to be continued ... Hint: The Greek word for the KJV "evil" is not evil but "bad". Jesus always uses this word in another sense.

Matthew 6:33 But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. [kjv]

ζητειτε δε πρωτον την βασιλειαν και την δικαιοσυνην αυτου και ταυτα παντα προστεθησεται υμιν [gnt]

6:34 Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. [kjv]

μη ουν μεριμνησητε εις την αυριον η γαρ αυριον μεριμνησει αυτης αρκετον τη ημερα η κακια αυτης [gnt]

The world seeks clothes, food, drink. The word translated as "evil" is that of "being oppressed" as in the "harmed".
Followers of Jesus should seek God to have those things added to them.

Ask: Put on the clothes of (and imitate) Jesus.
Seek: Eat his body as bread representing rules broken for us.
Knock: Drink his blood as living water remembered as the wine.

Discuss: What should you do? What should you not do? Express this in terms of "bind" and/or "glue" or in terms of "loose" and/or "separate".

The TR (Textus Receptus) adds "of God". There are five other verses in Matthew where Jesus uses "kingdom" of "God".

More: Matthew 11:12-14 Exploring the Kingdom of Heaven