Book of Mark - Chapter 7 - Verse 20
Meaning
In this verse from Mark 7:20-23, Jesus is teaching his disciples about the true source of impurity. He explains that it is not what goes into a person from the outside that defiles them, but rather what comes out from within. Jesus is emphasizing the importance of the inner character and intentions of a person, as opposed to focusing solely on outward actions or rituals. This message highlights the significance of purity of heart and mind, as well as the importance of being mindful of one's thoughts and intentions. By focusing on the internal rather than the external, Jesus challenges his followers to prioritize moral and spiritual purity above superficial gestures or traditional practices. This teaching encourages individuals to examine their inner selves and strive towards a genuine and sincere relationship with God.
Theological Overview
One theological interpretation of the verse "And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man." (Mark 7:20) emphasizes the importance of inner purity over external rituals or traditions. In this verse, Jesus is teaching his disciples that what truly defiles a person is not external things like food or customs, but rather the evil intentions and actions that come from within. This emphasizes the importance of examining one's heart and motives, as they are what truly reflect a person's righteousness or unrighteousness in the eyes of God.
Word studies on the phrase "That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man" can provide further insight into the original Greek words used in this verse. For example, the word "defileth" can be translated as "make common" or "render unclean," indicating a spiritual impurity rather than a physical contamination. This highlights the moral and ethical dimensions of defilement as described by Jesus, focusing on the internal state of a person rather than external actions. Such word studies can illuminate the deeper meanings and nuances of the verse, enriching our understanding of Jesus' teachings on purity and righteousness.