11 it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person.
Setting the Scene for Matthew 15:11
In Matthew chapter 15, we find Jesus surrounded by a crowd of people who have gathered to hear His teachings and witness His miracles. Among the crowd are His disciples, who have been traveling with Him and learning from Him. The scene takes place in the countryside, where Jesus often sought solitude to pray and teach away from the bustling cities.
On this particular day, Jesus is approached by a group of Pharisees and teachers of the law who question Him about why His disciples do not follow the tradition of washing their hands before they eat. This leads to a discussion about what truly defiles a person, with Jesus emphasizing that it is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth that reveals the condition of the heart.
As the sun begins to set, Jesus continues to teach the crowd about the importance of inner purity and the power of faith. The disciples listen intently, absorbing His words and pondering the deeper meanings behind His teachings. The scene is filled with a sense of anticipation and wonder as the people witness the wisdom and compassion of Jesus firsthand.
What is Matthew 15:11 about?
This verse is a powerful reminder that our words hold immense power and can reveal the true state of our hearts. It emphasizes that our actions alone do not define our character, but rather the words we speak. This verse challenges us to reflect on the importance of displaying kindness, compassion, and positivity through our speech.
Have you ever considered the impact of your words on yourself and others? Our words can nourish our relationships and our own well-being just as food nourishes our bodies. This verse urges us to pay close attention to the words we choose to speak, as they have the potential to uplift or tear down those around us.
When faced with challenges or conflicts, remember the profound wisdom in this verse. Instead of letting negative words escape our lips, let us choose to speak words of love, encouragement, and understanding. We can cultivate a more peaceful and harmonious environment for ourselves and those around us by consciously monitoring our speech and allowing positivity to flow from our mouths.
Understanding what Matthew 15:11 really means
Structure for Commentary:
1. Introduction and Context
2. Explanation of Key Phrases
3. Cross-References with Other Biblical Passages
4. Relevance to Modern Life
5. Anecdotal Illustration
6. Jesus speaks to His disciples in this passage, emphasizing the importance of the heart over external rituals. He challenges prevailing religious norms by suggesting that what truly defiles a person is not what goes into the mouth, but what comes out of it. This teaching occurs in a context where Jesus is addressing the Pharisees’ strict adherence to dietary laws and traditions, highlighting a deeper moral and spiritual truth.
Explanation of Key Phrases:
The most striking phrase here is “what comes out of the mouth.” Jesus is drawing attention to the words and attitudes that originate from the heart. This implies that our speech and actions, which reflect our inner thoughts and feelings, are the true indicators of our spiritual state. Dietary practices and other external observances are secondary by contrast.
Cross-References with Other Biblical Passages:
This idea is echoed in several other parts of the Bible. For instance, in Proverbs 4:23, we are advised to “guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.” Similarly, in James 3:6, the tongue is described as a powerful force that can corrupt the whole body. These passages collectively underscore the significance of inner purity and the impact of our words and attitudes. The principle that “what comes out of the mouth” matters greatly in today’s world, where social media and constant communication dominate our lives. The words we speak or type can have profound effects on others, potentially harming or healing, dividing or uniting. This calls us to be mindful of our speech and to cultivate a heart that produces positive, uplifting words. The manager consistently speaks harshly to their team in a workplace scenario. The morale of the team plummets, and productivity suffers. However, when a new manager takes over, one who speaks encouragingly and listens, the atmosphere changes dramatically. The team’s performance improves, and relationships are strengthened. This illustrates the power of words and the heart behind them.
Conclusion and Call to Reflection:
Reflect on your daily interactions. Are your words reflective of a heart filled with love, compassion, and integrity? Jesus calls us to a higher standard, where our inner spiritual life manifests in our outward expressions. Let us strive to align our hearts with His teachings, ensuring that we build up rather than tear down with our words. This week, focus on speaking life and truth into every situation you encounter.
What defiles a person?
Jesus is teaching in this verse that what comes out of a person’s mouth defiles them, not what goes into it. The focus is on the words we speak and the intentions behind them, rather than on external things like food or drink. Jesus is emphasizing that true defilement comes from the heart and is reflected in our actions and speech.
Therefore, what truly defiles a person is not external factors like food or drink, but the condition of their heart and the words they speak. It is the intentions and attitudes that come from within that have the power to defile a person. Jesus calls attention to the importance of cultivating a pure heart and being mindful of the words we use, as they reveal the state of our inner being by highlighting this. Internal and spiritual defile a person, not physical or external. It is the motives, attitudes, and speech that flow from the heart that can defile a person. Jesus is pointing to the transformative power of a pure heart and the importance of guarding against negative thoughts and intentions that can lead to defilement by focusing on the inward condition of the heart and the words we speak.
Application
Think of your words as the tools you use every day at work—will you choose to build up or to tear down? Imagine your family and friends relying on the kindness you offer them; your words shape their world. Can you commit to speaking with integrity and love, even during stressful times? Your heart is the source, and your words are its expression. What kind of world are you creating for those around you with your words?
Reverend Ogunlade is a seasoned Church Minister with over three decades of experience in guiding and nurturing congregations. With profound wisdom and a serene approach, Reverend Ogunlade has carried out various pastoral duties, including delivering uplifting sermons, conducting religious ceremonies, and offering sage counsel to individuals seeking spiritual guidance. Their commitment to fostering harmony and righteousness within their community is exemplified through their compassionate nature, making them a beloved and trusted figure among the congregation.