Definition: 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;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Mark 7:18. It’s a really important and thought-provoking passage about how we relate to sin and temptation. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that our thoughts, desires, and even our actions are vulnerable to being influenced by things outside of us – things that come from the world. It’s like a door leading into a room; if something bad or harmful comes in through the door, it can contaminate what's inside. Let’s unpack each part: “And he saith unto them…” : This is Jesus speaking. He’s addressing people who are seemingly lost or troubled – likely those who have done something wrong or are struggling with temptation. “…Are ye so without understanding also?” : This is a crucial question. “Understanding” here means recognizing that our thoughts and desires are not always our own. We're often influenced by things outside of us, like bad movies, gossip, or even the opinions of others. “Do ye not perceive…” : This is a gentle challenge. He’s asking if they recognize this influence. It’s a reminder that we’re susceptible to being led astray. “…that whatsoever thing from without entereth into the man, [it] cannot defile him?” : This is the core of the verse. It means: “Whatever comes from outside – whether it's bad news, gossip, or temptation – can’t make a person truly good or righteous.” The word "defile" means to corrupt or spoil something good. Putting it all together: Jesus is saying that our minds and hearts are open to being influenced by things outside of us. These influences can lead us down paths of wrongdoing, selfishness, or unhappiness. He's urging us to be aware of this potential influence and to resist it. Why is this important? This verse speaks to the struggle we all face with temptation and sin. It’s a call to cultivate a strong moral compass – to think wisely and choose good over evil, even when it's difficult. It’s about recognizing that our thoughts are not always our own, and that we need to be vigilant against being led astray by outside influences. --- In short, the verse is a warning and a call to spiritual maturity – to be aware of what's coming into us and to resist it. Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Connect it to a specific example (like temptation or sin)?