It is not what goes into the mouth that defiles a person, but what comes out of the mouth; this defiles a person. — Matthew 15:11
Matthew 15:11 is part of a teaching from Jesus addressing the concept of true purity and defilement.
The religious leaders of the time, such as the Pharisees, emphasized strict dietary and ceremonial laws, believing that certain foods or behaviors could make a person “unclean” in the eyes of God.
In this verse, Jesus challenges this view, teaching that what truly makes a person “unclean” is not what they consume but rather what they say and express.
Jesus’ words highlight that purity is not about external observance but internal character and integrity. When he says, “what comes out of the mouth… defiles a person,” he points to the moral and spiritual implications of our words and actions, which are often reflections of our hearts and minds.
Words can hurt, deceive, or reveal selfishness and pride; they stem from a person’s inner character and intentions. Therefore, Jesus calls people to self-examine their hearts, as this is where true purity or impurity originates.
This teaching broadens the focus from rigid external rules to inner transformation. Jesus emphasizes that true righteousness is measured by our love, kindness, and integrity rather than merely observing rituals.
This teaching invites people to cultivate compassion, humility, and honesty within, rather than just avoiding “unclean” foods or practices.
In a broader sense, this verse encourages people to prioritize the integrity of their thoughts, words, and actions over superficial compliance with rules.
It’s a call to pursue a deeper, heart-centered morality that goes beyond appearances and truly honors God by reflecting goodness, love, and truth.
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