New Testament
Matthew 13:15
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
These people's hearts have become calloused, their ears are hard of hearing, and they have shut their eyes. Otherwise, they might see with their eyes, hear with their ears, understand with their hearts, and turn, and I would heal them.
Compare translations
For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
What Matthew 13:15 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus explains why some people do not understand His teachings. Their hearts have become hard, making it difficult for them to hear and see the truth. They have chosen to ignore the message, which prevents them from gaining insight and healing. If they were open to understanding, they could see and hear the truth, leading to a change of heart and spiritual healing. This reflects a common theme in the Bible about the importance of being receptive to God's word. The imagery of closed eyes and ears signifies a deliberate choice to remain ignorant, highlighting the consequences of spiritual apathy. Jesus desires for people to turn to Him and receive healing, but their hardened hearts stand in the way. This verse serves as a warning about the dangers of becoming indifferent to spiritual truths and the need for openness to God's message.
How to apply Matthew 13:15 to your life
To avoid spiritual blindness, we should actively seek to understand God's word and remain open to His teachings. Regular prayer and reflection can help soften our hearts, allowing us to hear and see the truth more clearly. This openness can lead to personal transformation and healing.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: Parables by the Sea (Matthew 13:1–52)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002724966). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Bethlehem, West Bank; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Bethlehem
David's hometown, and the town where Jesus was born.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 13:15
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 13:15
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 13:15 mean about hardened hearts?
Matthew 13:15 illustrates how some individuals become spiritually insensitive due to their hardened hearts. This condition prevents them from perceiving the truth of Jesus' teachings. The verse emphasizes that when people choose to ignore or reject spiritual insights, they close themselves off from understanding and healing that could come from God.
How can I avoid spiritual blindness as mentioned in Matthew 13:15?
To avoid spiritual blindness, it's essential to cultivate an open heart and mind towards God's word. Engage in regular prayer, study the Bible, and reflect on its teachings. Being part of a community that discusses faith can also help. By actively seeking understanding and being receptive to God's message, you can prevent your heart from becoming calloused.
Why does Jesus want us to see and hear the truth?
Jesus desires for us to see and hear the truth because it leads to understanding, transformation, and healing. In Matthew 13:15, He expresses a longing for people to open their hearts to His message. By doing so, they can experience spiritual renewal and a deeper connection with God, which is vital for their overall well-being.
What are the consequences of ignoring God's message in Matthew 13:15?
Ignoring God's message, as highlighted in Matthew 13:15, leads to spiritual blindness and a hardened heart. This results in a lack of understanding and insight into God's truth, preventing individuals from experiencing healing and transformation. The verse serves as a warning about the dangers of apathy towards spiritual matters and the importance of remaining receptive to God's teachings.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.