Matthew 15:17-20 is about the importance of guarding one’s heart and mind from impure thoughts and actions, for what comes out from a person’s heart is what truly defiles them in the eyes of God.
17 Do you not see that whatever goes into the mouth passes into the stomach and is expelled?
18 But what comes out of the mouth proceeds from the heart, and this defiles a person.
19 For out of the heart come evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false witness, slander.
20 These are what defile a person. But to eat with unwashed hands does not defile anyone.”
Setting the Scene for Matthew 15:17-20
In Matthew chapter 15, we find Jesus surrounded by a crowd of followers and Pharisees in the region of Galilee. The scene takes place outdoors, likely in a grassy area near the Sea of Galilee. The sun is shining brightly, casting a warm glow over the gathering.
As Jesus begins to speak, the disciples and Pharisees listen intently, eager to hear His teachings. The disciples, including Peter, James, and John, are seated close to Jesus, hanging on His every word. The Pharisees, on the other hand, stand at a distance, watching and listening carefully, ready to challenge Jesus with their questions and criticisms.
In this particular passage, Jesus addresses the crowd about the importance of what comes out of a person’s mouth rather than what goes into it. He explains that it is not what enters the body through food that defiles a person, but rather what comes out of the mouth, as it reveals the true condition of the heart. The disciples and Pharisees ponder His words, each processing the profound message in their own way.
What is Matthew 15:17-20 about?
Jesus is emphasizing the power of our words and the importance of what we speak in this verse. He is explaining that our words have the potential to defile us, meaning they can pollute our hearts and minds, and ultimately impact our actions and relationships. Jesus is highlighting the need for mindfulness and intentionality in our communication by focusing on the significance of our speech.
Think about it this way: what we say reflects what is in our hearts. Therefore, it is crucial to pay attention to the words we choose to use, as they can reveal our true intentions and beliefs. Jesus is encouraging us to be mindful of our speech and to strive for words that are kind, uplifting, and truthful. We not only avoid defilement but also contribute to creating a more positive and loving environment for ourselves and those around us by doing so.
So, the next time you find yourself about to say something, pause and think about the impact your words may have. Are they coming from a place of love and understanding, or are they rooted in negativity and harm? Jesus teaches us to remember that what comes out of our mouths defiles us, not what goes in. Let’s strive to speak words that edify, encourage, and bring life to those around us.
Understanding what Matthew 15:17-20 really means
In Matthew 15:17-20, Jesus addresses the Pharisees and the crowd, shifting the focus from external rituals to the condition of the heart. He starts by pointing out the physical process of digestion, highlighting that what goes into the mouth eventually passes through the body. This serves as a metaphor to emphasize that physical food does not defile a person spiritually. Instead, Jesus directs attention to what comes out of the mouth, stating that it proceeds from the heart and is what truly defiles a person. This shift in perspective underscores the significance of inner purity over outward observances.
The key phrases in this passage carry profound meanings that resonate with the core message of inner transformation. Jesus lists various sins that originate from the heart, such as evil thoughts, murder, adultery, and slander, underscoring the importance of addressing the root of these actions—the heart. By contrasting the Pharisees’ emphasis on external cleanliness with the necessity of moral and spiritual purity, Jesus challenges traditional notions of defilement and righteousness.
Drawing from related Bible passages like Proverbs 4:23 and Jeremiah 17:9, the importance of guarding the heart and recognizing its deceitful nature is reiterated. These verses reinforce the idea that the heart is the wellspring of life and actions, emphasizing the need for vigilance in maintaining inner purity. Additionally, parallel passages like Mark 7:20-23 reaffirm Jesus’ teachings on inner defilement, emphasizing the timeless relevance of this message.
In today’s context, where superficial appearances often take precedence over inner authenticity, the message of Matthew 15:17-20 remains pertinent. It challenges individuals to prioritize moral integrity and spiritual authenticity over mere external observances. By encouraging introspection and a focus on cultivating a pure heart, this passage prompts believers to align their inner lives with God’s will, fostering genuine transformation from within.
An anecdote illustrates the impact of neglecting inner purity—a man who outwardly adhered to religious rituals but harbored negative emotions in his heart. Despite his outward piety, his relationships suffered, and he felt disconnected from God. Upon recognizing the importance of inner transformation, he embarked on a journey of forgiveness and love, experiencing a profound change in his life and connections. This story underscores the transformative power of addressing the heart’s condition.
In conclusion, Matthew 15:17-20 serves as a call to action for believers to reflect on the state of their hearts. It urges individuals to prioritize inner purity and spiritual authenticity, recognizing that God values the condition of the heart above external appearances. By aligning our hearts with God’s love and righteousness, we can experience true transformation and reflect His character in our lives.
What defiles a person spiritually?
What defiles a person spiritually is what comes out of their mouth, for the things that are spoken come from the heart. Evil thoughts, murder, adultery, sexual immorality, theft, false testimony, and slander are the things that defile a person. It is not what enters the mouth that defiles someone, but what comes out of it. These are the things that come from within and make a person spiritually unclean. It is our words and actions that truly reveal the condition of our hearts and whether we are spiritually pure or defiled.
Application
Think about your life, like your job and family. You know how a negative email can ruin your day, but a genuine compliment can lift your spirits. Jesus’ words remind us that what we express has more power than what we consume. Challenge yourself to check those inner thoughts and attitudes. Shift your focus to love, kindness, and grace. How will you let this change your daily actions and interactions?
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.