Mark 7:20
And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.
Original Language Analysis
ἔλεγεν
he said
G3004
ἔλεγεν
he said
Strong's:
G3004
Word #:
1 of 12
properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an
ὅτι
G3754
Τὸ
G3588
Τὸ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
4 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκ
out of
G1537
ἐκ
out of
Strong's:
G1537
Word #:
5 of 12
a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct
τοῦ
G3588
τοῦ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
6 of 12
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἐκπορευόμενον
That which cometh
G1607
ἐκπορευόμενον
That which cometh
Strong's:
G1607
Word #:
8 of 12
to depart, be discharged, proceed, project
ἐκεῖνο
that
G1565
ἐκεῖνο
that
Strong's:
G1565
Word #:
9 of 12
that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed
Cross References
James 3:6And the tongue is a fire, a world of iniquity: so is the tongue among our members, that it defileth the whole body, and setteth on fire the course of nature; and it is set on fire of hell.James 4:1From whence come wars and fightings among you? come they not hence, even of your lusts that war in your members?Mark 7:15There is nothing from without a man, that entering into him can defile him: but the things which come out of him, those are they that defile the man.Psalms 41:6And if he come to see me, he speaketh vanity: his heart gathereth iniquity to itself; when he goeth abroad, he telleth it.Micah 2:1Woe to them that devise iniquity, and work evil upon their beds! when the morning is light, they practise it, because it is in the power of their hand.Hebrews 7:6But he whose descent is not counted from them received tithes of Abraham, and blessed him that had the promises.
Historical Context
First-century Palestinian Jewish context under Roman occupation shapes the narrative. Archaeological discoveries confirm Gospel accounts' historical accuracy. Ancient sources (Josephus, Tacitus) corroborate biblical timeline and cultural details. Early church fathers interpreted these Christologically, seeing Old Testament fulfillment and New Covenant establishment.
Questions for Reflection
- How does this verse reveal Christ's person and work in redemptive history?
- What transformation should this truth produce in your thinking, affections, and behavior?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Mark 7:20 This passage continues Mark's fast-paced narrative demonstrating Jesus' divine authority, miraculous power, and confrontation with religious establishment. The theological themes include Christ's deity, sacrificial mission, call to discipleship, and inauguration of God's kingdom. Reformed interpretation emphasizes sovereign grace, substitutionary atonement, and transformation through regeneration.