Book of Matthew - Chapter 5 - Verse 26

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to his disciples, emphasizing the importance of reconciliation and settling debts with others before it is too late. The phrase "Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing" highlights the idea that one must take responsibility for their actions and make amends for any wrongs they have committed. The "uttermost farthing" symbolizes the smallest debt or sin that must be accounted for in order to achieve true reconciliation and forgiveness. This verse serves as a warning against delaying the process of making things right and reminds us of the importance of seeking forgiveness and resolving conflicts in a timely manner.

When examining the theological interpretation of the verse "Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing," it is important to understand the context in which Jesus is speaking. In this passage, Jesus is teaching about the consequences of sin and the importance of reconciliation with God. The phrase "paid the uttermost farthing" is symbolic of the full and complete payment required for sin. It signifies the idea that every sin must be accounted for and fully paid before one can be reconciled with God.

Furthermore, the verse implies a sense of divine justice and accountability. It conveys the seriousness of sin and the necessity of repentance. The word "thence" indicates a state of being, suggesting that one cannot escape the consequences of sin until they have fully atoned for it. This serves as a reminder of the gravity of our actions and the need for accountability in our relationship with God.

In a word study of the term "uttermost farthing," we can see that "uttermost" signifies the highest or most extreme degree, while "farthing" is a small unit of currency. Therefore, this phrase denotes the exhaustive payment required for sin, down to the smallest detail. It emphasizes the completeness and thoroughness of the atonement necessary for reconciliation with God.