New Testament

Matthew 15:14

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus warns about following leaders who lack spiritual insight.

Author: Matthew the apostle
Written: Around AD 60-70
Genre: Gospel
Original Audience: Jewish Christians

CBTClear Bible Translation

Ignore them. They're blind guides leading blind people. And when the blind lead the blind, both end up falling into a pit."

KJVKing James Version

Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus warns about following leaders who lack spiritual insight. He uses the metaphor of blind guides leading blind followers, illustrating that if someone without understanding tries to lead others, they will all end up in trouble. The 'pit' symbolizes the consequences of poor guidance, suggesting that those who do not see the truth can lead others into danger. This teaching emphasizes the importance of discernment in choosing whom to follow, especially in spiritual matters. Jesus is essentially saying that it is better to avoid such leaders altogether, as they cannot provide the guidance needed for a righteous path. The imagery of falling into a pit serves as a stark reminder of the risks involved in following those who are themselves lost. This verse encourages individuals to seek out wise and knowledgeable leaders who can truly guide them in their spiritual journey, rather than those who are misguided themselves. Explore related leadership.

Key themes

Related Bible verses

How to apply Matthew 15:14 to your life

This verse encourages us to be cautious about whom we choose to follow in our spiritual lives. We should seek leaders who demonstrate wisdom and understanding, ensuring they align with the truth. By doing so, we can avoid the pitfalls that come from following misguided individuals.

Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Matthew 15:14 mean?

Matthew 15:14 means that Jesus is warning against following leaders who lack spiritual insight. He uses the metaphor of blind guides leading blind followers to illustrate that without true understanding, both the leader and the followers will face negative consequences.

What is the meaning of 'blind guides' in Matthew 15:14?

In Matthew 15:14, 'blind guides' refers to leaders who do not have spiritual clarity or understanding. They are unable to provide proper direction, leading their followers into danger or confusion.

How does Matthew 15:14 apply to today?

Matthew 15:14 applies today by reminding us to be careful about whom we follow in our spiritual lives. It encourages us to seek leaders who are wise and grounded in truth to avoid the risks associated with poor guidance.

What does 'falling into a pit' symbolize in Matthew 15:14?

In Matthew 15:14, 'falling into a pit' symbolizes the negative consequences that arise from following misguided leaders. It serves as a warning that poor guidance can lead to serious spiritual or moral pitfalls.

Book Summary

The Book of Matthew

Matthew 1: The Generation and Birth of Jesus Christ

The book begins with the generation of Jesus Christ, the son of David, the son of Abraham. It records the generations from Abraham to David, from David until the carrying away into Babylon, and from the carrying away into Babylon unto Christ, each being fourteen generations. The genealogy concludes with Jacob begetting Joseph, the husband of Mary, of whom was born Jesus, who is called Christ.

The birth of Jesus Christ is on this wise: His mother Mary is espoused to Joseph, but before they come together, she is found with child of the Holy Ghost. Joseph, being a just man and not willing to make her a publick example, is minded to put her away privily. But while he thinks on these things, an angel of the Lord appears to him in a dream, saying, Fear not to take unto thee Mary thy wife: for that which is conceived in her is of the Holy Ghost. The angel saith she shall bring forth a son, and Joseph shall call his name JESUS, for he shall save his people from their sins. Joseph, being raised from sleep, does as the angel had bidden him and takes unto him his wife, but knows her not till she has brought forth her firstborn son. Matthew 2: The Wise Men and the Flight to Egypt When Jesus is born in Bethlehem of Judaea in the days of Herod the king, there come wise men from the east to Jerusalem, saying, Where is he that is born King of the Jews? for we have seen his star in the east, and are come to worship him. When Herod the king hears these things, he is troubled. He gathers the chief priests and scribes and demands of them where Christ should be born. They say unto him, In Bethlehem of Judaea. Herod privily calls the wise men and sends them to Bethlehem to search for the young child, telling them to bring him word again, that he may come and worship him also. The star goes before them until it stands over where the young child is. They rejoice, and entering the house, they see the young child with Mary his mother, and fall down and worship him, presenting him with gifts. Being warned of God in a dream not to return to Herod, they depart into their own country another way.

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