Book of Matthew - Chapter 24 - Verse 12

Jesus' prophetic words in this verse highlight the devastating impact of the prevalence of sin and injustice on the hearts of many. As iniquity becomes more widespread in the world, the love and compassion that people have for one another will diminish. The coldness that is described here is not simply a lack of affection, but a hardness of heart that can lead to indifference, apathy, and even hostility towards others. This verse serves as a cautionary reminder of the corrosive nature of sin and the importance of actively nurturing love and kindness in the face of a world that often seems to be growing darker. It calls on believers to guard against allowing the negativity and evil around them to erode their own capacity for love and compassion, and to instead strive to be beacons of light in a world that is increasingly in need of the transformative power of genuine love.

One theological interpretation of the verse "And because iniquity shall abound, the love of many shall wax cold," is that the increasing presence of sin and wrongdoing in the world will lead to a decline in love and compassion among people. In this context, "iniquity" refers to a lack of righteousness or moral integrity, which can create a barrier to experiencing and expressing love. As sin becomes more prevalent, individuals may become desensitized to the needs and feelings of others, causing their love to grow cold. This verse serves as a warning about the consequences of living in a sinful world and emphasizes the importance of remaining steadfast in love despite external influences. Word studies on 'iniquity' and 'wax cold' can provide additional insight into the original language and context of the verse, shedding light on the deeper meaning and implications of the message being conveyed.