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Book of Matthew - Chapter 20 - Verse 15

20:15
Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?

Meaning

These words spoken by Jesus in the Gospel of Matthew highlight an important aspect of Christian teachings regarding the generosity and grace of God. In this verse, Jesus challenges the notion of fairness and questions why some may view acts of kindness and mercy with suspicion or envy. By asking whether it is wrong for Him to show goodness and generosity to others, Jesus emphasizes the divine prerogative of God to extend grace and mercy as He sees fit. The verse ultimately serves as a reminder that God's ways are not bound by human standards of fairness or justice, but are instead driven by His infinite love and compassion. It encourages believers to trust in the goodness and sovereignty of God, even when His actions may seem unconventional or unexpected. Overall, this verse serves as a powerful reminder of the limitless nature of God's grace and the importance of embracing a mindset of abundance and generosity in our own lives.

Theological Overview

In this verse, Jesus challenges the bystanders regarding their understanding of justice and generosity. By asking, "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own?", Jesus is addressing the idea of ownership and the freedom to act according to one's own discretion. The concept of ownership here extends beyond material possessions to include the sovereign right of God to dispense His grace as He sees fit. Jesus then questions the onlookers' motives by asking, "Is thine eye evil, because I am good?" This challenges the listener to examine their heart attitude towards acts of kindness and generosity. The word "evil" here refers to a sense of envy or resentment towards the goodness shown to others, highlighting the importance of having a pure and grateful heart when witnessing acts of generosity. This verse serves as a reminder of God's sovereignty and the importance of having a humble and grateful heart towards His grace and mercy.

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