King James Version

What Does Matthew 20:15 Mean?

Matthew 20:15 in the King James Version says “Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good? — study this verse from Matthew chapter 20 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?

Matthew 20:15 · KJV


Context

13

But he answered one of them, and said, Friend, I do thee no wrong: didst not thou agree with me for a penny?

14

Take that thine is, and go thy way: I will give unto this last, even as unto thee.

15

Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?

16

So the last shall be first, and the first last: for many be called, but few chosen.

17

And Jesus going up to Jerusalem took the twelve disciples apart in the way, and said unto them,


Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

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Historical & Cultural Context

This verse originates in Jesus' ministry during a pivotal period. The first-century Jewish context included Roman occupation, Pharisaic religious authority, and messianic expectations. Understanding these factors illuminates the passage's significance.

Reflection Questions

  1. How does this verse deepen your appreciation for Christ?
  2. What false beliefs or practices does this text correct?
  3. How should you share this truth with others?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 20 words
1 of 20
G2228

disjunctive, or; comparative, than

οὐκ2 of 20

Is it not

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἔξεστίν3 of 20

lawful

G1832

so also ???? <pronunciation strongs="ex-on'"/> neuter present participle of the same (with or without some form of g1510 expressed); impersonally, it

μοι4 of 20

for me

G3427

to me

ποιῆσαι5 of 20

to do

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

6 of 20

what

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

θέλω7 of 20

I will

G2309

to determine (as an active option from subjective impulse; whereas g1014 properly denotes rather a passive acquiescence in objective considerations),

ἐν8 of 20

with

G1722

"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc

τοῖς9 of 20
G3588

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

ἐμοῖς10 of 20

mine own

G1699

my

εἰ11 of 20
G1487

if, whether, that, etc

12 of 20
G3588

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

ὀφθαλμός13 of 20

eye

G3788

the eye (literally or figuratively); by implication, vision; figuratively, envy (from the jealous side-glance)

σου14 of 20

thine

G4675

of thee, thy

πονηρός15 of 20

evil

G4190

hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455

ἐστιν16 of 20

Is

G2076

he (she or it) is; also (with neuter plural) they are

ὅτι17 of 20

because

G3754

demonstrative, that (sometimes redundant); causative, because

ἐγὼ18 of 20

I

G1473

i, me

ἀγαθός19 of 20

good

G18

"good" (in any sense, often as noun)

εἰμι20 of 20

am

G1510

i exist (used only when emphatic)


Study Guide

Historical Context

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

Theological Significance

Matthew 20:15 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 Matthew 20:15 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

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