Matthew 5:26
A focused desk for reading, commentary, cross-references, original language notes, and your own observations.
Matthew 5:26
26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
Chapter Context
Matthew 5 is a ethical teaching chapter in the New Testament that explores themes of fellowship, discipleship, creation. Written during the late first century CE (c. 80-90 CE), this chapter should be understood within its historical context: Written when Christianity was separating from Judaism following Jerusalem's destruction.
The chapter can be divided into several sections:
- Verses 1-5: Introduction and setting the context
- Verses 6-12: Development of key themes
- Verses 13-20: Central message and teachings
- Verses 21-48: Conclusion and application
This chapter is significant because it presents Jesus' ethical teaching in the Sermon on the Mount. When studying this passage, it's important to consider both its immediate context within Matthew and its broader place in the scriptural canon.
Verse Study
Matthew 5:26
26 Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
Analysis
Complete payment of every debt before release reinforces the seriousness of unresolved sin. The 'uttermost farthing' (smallest coin) shows God's justice is thorough and complete. This parable warns about the impossibility of self-salvation—we cannot pay the debt of sin ourselves.
Historical Context
A farthing (Greek kodrantes, Latin quadrans) was the smallest Roman copper coin, worth about 1/64 of a denarius. The phrase emphasizes complete payment with nothing left unpaid. Debtor's prison was common in the Roman world.
Reflection
- How does your inability to pay sin's debt point you to Christ's sufficient payment?
- What does this teach about the finality and completeness of divine justice?
Cross-References
- Parallel theme: Matthew 18:34, Luke 12:59