Matthew 15:8

Authorized King James Version

This people draweth nigh unto me with their mouth, and honoureth me with their lips; but their heart is far from me.

Word-by-Word Analysis

Ἐγγίζει

G1448

draweth nigh

to make near, i.e., (reflexively) approach

μοι

G3427

unto me

to me

Ὁ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

λαὸς

G2992

people

a people (in general; thus differing from g1218, which denotes one's own populace)

οὗτος

G3778

This

the he (she or it), i.e., this or that (often with article repeated)

τῷ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

στόματι

G4750

mouth

the mouth (as if a gash in the face); by implication, language (and its relations); figuratively, an opening (in the earth); specially, the front or e

αὐτῶν,

G846

their

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

καὶ

G2532

and

and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words

#10

τοῖς

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#11

χείλεσίν

G5491

with their lips

a lip (as a pouring place); figuratively, a margin (of water)

#12

με

G3165

#13

τιμᾷ

G5091

honoureth

to prize, i.e., fix a valuation upon; by implication, to revere

#14

ἡ

G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

#15

δὲ

G1161

but

but, and, etc

#16

καρδία

G2588

heart

the heart, i.e., (figuratively) the thoughts or feelings (mind); also (by analogy) the middle

#17

αὐτῶν,

G846

their

the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons

#18

πόῤῥω

G4206

far

forwards, i.e., at a distance

#19

ἀπέχει

G568

(actively) to have out, i.e., receive in full; (intransitively) to keep (oneself) away, i.e., be distant (literally or figuratively)

#20

ἀπ'

G575

from

"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)

#21

ἐμοῦ·

G1700

of me

Analysis

Within the broader context of Matthew, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of covenant community connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about covenant community, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Matthew.

Historical Context

The literary and historical milieu of Jewish biographical literature presenting Jesus as the fulfillment of Scripture shapes this text's meaning. The historical development of salvation within the theological tradition of Matthew Understanding a worldview expecting divine intervention through a promised Messiah helps modern readers appreciate why the author emphasizes covenant community in this particular way.

Questions for Reflection

In what ways does this verse's emphasis on covenant community address religious pluralism and questions about the necessity of Christ, and how should the church respond?
How might the original audience's understanding of covenant community differ from modern interpretations, and what bridges can be built between ancient meaning and contemporary application?
What practical applications emerge from understanding salvation as presented in this verse, particularly in light of addressing questions of religious pluralism and the exclusivity of Christ?

Related Resources

Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.

Matthew 15:8

Analysis

Historical Context

Questions for Reflection

Related Resources

Topics

People

Study Resources