King James Version

What Does Mark 7:20 Mean?

Mark 7:20 in the King James Version says “And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man. — study this verse from Mark chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.

Mark 7:20 · KJV


Context

18

And he saith unto them, Are ye so without understanding also? Do ye not perceive, that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, it cannot defile him;

19

Because it entereth not into his heart, but into the belly, and goeth out into the draught, purging all meats?

20

And he said, That which cometh out of the man, that defileth the man.

21

For from within, out of the heart of men, proceed evil thoughts, adulteries, fornications, murders,

22

Thefts, covetousness, wickedness, deceit, lasciviousness, an evil eye, blasphemy, pride, foolishness: covetousness: Gr. covetousnesses, wickednesses


Commentary

KJV Study 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.

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Historical & Cultural 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.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse reveal Christ's person and work in redemptive history?
  2. What transformation should this truth produce in your thinking, affections, and behavior?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 12 words
ἔλεγεν1 of 12

he said

G3004

properly, to "lay" forth, i.e., (figuratively) relate (in words (usually of systematic or set discourse; whereas g2036 and g5346 generally refer to an

δὲ2 of 12

And

G1161

but, and, etc

ὅτι3 of 12
G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

Τὸ4 of 12
G3588

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

ἐκ5 of 12

out of

G1537

a primary preposition denoting origin (the point whence action or motion proceeds), from, out (of place, time, or cause literal or figurative; direct

τοῦ6 of 12
G3588

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

ἄνθρωπον7 of 12

the man

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being

ἐκπορευόμενον8 of 12

That which cometh

G1607

to depart, be discharged, proceed, project

ἐκεῖνο9 of 12

that

G1565

that one (or (neuter) thing); often intensified by the article prefixed

κοινοῖ10 of 12

defileth

G2840

to make (or consider) profane (ceremonially)

τὸν11 of 12
G3588

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

ἄνθρωπον12 of 12

the man

G444

man-faced, i.e., a human being


Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Mark. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Mark 7:20 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Mark 7:20 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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