To delve into the meaning of the phrase “not what goes into the mouth defiles a man,” we must explore its context within the teachings of Jesus Christ as recorded in the New Testament. This statement, found in Matthew 15:11 (NKJV), is part of a larger discourse where Jesus addresses the Pharisees and scribes regarding matters of purity and righteousness. To fully understand its significance, we’ll examine the broader passage, explore the cultural and religious context, discuss its theological implications, and draw practical applications for contemporary believers. Understanding this verse is crucial for grasping the essence of Jesus’ message about true defilement and the nature of purity.
Context and Background – Matthew 15:11
1. Pharisaic Concerns with Ritual Purity:
The Pharisees were meticulous about observing the ceremonial laws of Judaism, including rituals related to handwashing and dietary restrictions (Mark 7:1-5). They believed that outward actions and adherence to these rituals were essential for maintaining spiritual purity. This focus on external observance often overshadowed the deeper spiritual truths that Jesus sought to convey.
2. Jesus’ Challenge to Pharisaic Traditions:
Jesus, however, challenged the Pharisaic emphasis on external rituals and purity laws. He emphasized the importance of inward purity of heart and genuine righteousness over mere adherence to outward rituals (Matthew 23:25-26). By doing so, He aimed to redirect their focus from ritualistic practices to the condition of their hearts, which is where true defilement originates.
Exposition of the Passage
1. Matthew 15:10-11:
In this passage, Jesus responds to the Pharisees’ criticism of His disciples for not observing the ritual handwashing before eating. He declares, “Not what goes into the mouth defiles a man; but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man” (Matthew 15:11, NKJV). This statement highlights a radical shift in understanding what truly makes a person unclean.
2. Jesus’ Explanation:
Jesus contrasts external actions, such as eating with unwashed hands, with the internal condition of the heart. He teaches that true defilement does not come from external sources, such as food or drink, but from the sinful attitudes and intentions that originate within the heart (Matthew 15:17-20). This teaching emphasizes the need for a heart transformation that aligns with God’s will.
Cultural and Religious Context
1. Jewish Laws:
The Old Testament Law contained specific rituals and restrictions. However, Jesus’ teaching in Matthew 15 challenged the Pharisaic interpretation and application of these laws, emphasizing the spiritual significance over the external observance. This was a radical departure from the traditional understanding of purity.
2. Ritual Handwashing:
The Pharisees practiced ritual handwashing as a ceremonial purification rite before meals (Mark 7:3). While this tradition was not explicitly commanded in the Law, it had become a significant aspect of Jewish religious practice. Jesus’ challenge to this tradition highlighted the need for a deeper understanding of what it means to be clean before God.
Is It OK to Eat Unclean Meats?
Some wrongly apply Matthew 15:11 to eating unclean meats. They claim: since Jesus said, “not what goes into the mouth defiles a man but what comes out of the mouth, this defiles a man” (Matthew 15:11), therefore, it is OK to eat unclean meats. However, the subject in Matthew 15:1-20 is eating without first washing the hands (verse 2). The focus here is not on eating, but on washing rituals. The scribes taught that eating any food without a special ceremonial washing defiled the eater. So, Jesus responded that the ceremonial washings were meaningless as far as cleansing the heart from evil. In verse 19, Jesus listed certain evils-murders, adulteries, thefts, etc. He concluded, “These are the things which defile a man: but to eat with unwashen hands defileth not a man” (verse 20).
As for clean and unclean meats, the Bible provides ample evidence that there were clean and unclean animals from the very beginning. Noah lived long before any Jews existed, but he knew of the clean and unclean, as he took into the ark the clean animals by “sevens” and the unclean by “twos” (Genesis 7:1, 2). After the flood, Noah’s sacrifice of clean animals (Genesis 8:20) demonstrated his understanding of the difference between clean and unclean.
In Leviticus 11 and Deuteronomy 14, God clearly delineated clean and unclean animals.
The death of Christ did not change or alter the health laws given in the Old Testament. In the New Testament, Revelation 18:2 refers to some birds as being unclean just before the second coming of Christ. Furthermore, the stomach and digestive system of Jews do not differ from those of Gentiles in the New Testament. These health laws are for all people for all time.
Theological Implications
1. Heart Condition Matters Most:
Jesus’ teaching underscores the primacy of inner purity and righteousness before God. He emphasizes that true defilement stems from sinful attitudes and actions that arise from the heart, rather than external observances or dietary regulations. This highlights the need for believers to cultivate a heart that reflects God’s love and holiness.
2. Grace and Mercy Over Legalism:
Jesus’ message challenges legalistic interpretations of religious laws and traditions. He emphasizes the importance of grace, mercy, and the transformation of the heart through faith in Him, rather than rigid adherence to external rituals. This approach invites believers to experience a relationship with God that is based on love rather than obligation.
Practical Applications
1. Focus on Life Transformation:
Believers are called to prioritize inner purity and righteousness by allowing the Holy Spirit to transform their hearts and minds according to the teachings of Jesus Christ (Romans 12:2). This transformation is essential for living a life that honors God and reflects His character.
2. Avoiding Hypocrisy:
Christians should guard against hypocrisy by ensuring that their outward actions align with the genuine condition of their hearts. This requires humility, self-examination, and reliance on the empowering work of the Holy Spirit. By doing so, they can live authentically and avoid the pitfalls of legalism.
3. Liberation from Man-Made Traditions:
Jesus’ teaching offers liberation from the burden of man-made traditions. Believers are called to embrace the freedom found in Christ and live out their faith with sincerity and authenticity. This freedom allows them to engage with God and others in meaningful ways.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Matthew 15:11 emphasizes that true defilement originates from the heart rather than from external actions or dietary practices. Jesus challenges the Pharisaic emphasis on ritual purity, redirecting attention to the importance of inner righteousness and the condition of one’s heart.
This teaching encourages believers to focus on spiritual transformation through the work of the Holy Spirit, fostering genuine purity and authenticity in their lives. By embracing these principles, Christians can experience the freedom and grace found in a relationship with Christ, moving away from legalism and towards a faith that reflects God’s love and holiness.
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