New Testament
Matthew 5:26
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I tell you the truth, you won't get out of there until you've paid every last penny.
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Verily I say unto thee, Thou shalt by no means come out thence, till thou hast paid the uttermost farthing.
What Matthew 5:26 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus emphasizes the seriousness of our actions and the consequences that follow. He uses the metaphor of a debtor in prison to illustrate that unresolved issues, particularly those related to our relationships and responsibilities, must be addressed. The phrase 'every last penny' signifies that no debt can be overlooked; everything must be settled. This teaching encourages individuals to take responsibility for their actions and to seek reconciliation with others. It serves as a reminder that unresolved conflicts can lead to spiritual and emotional imprisonment, and that true freedom comes from making amends and fulfilling our obligations. Jesus is urging us to be proactive in resolving our disputes and to understand that our choices have lasting effects, both in this life and the next.
How to apply Matthew 5:26 to your life
This verse encourages us to take our responsibilities seriously and to resolve conflicts promptly. It reminds us to seek forgiveness and make amends in our relationships, ensuring that we do not leave issues unresolved. By doing so, we can experience true peace and freedom.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Jesus
Photo: Photochrom print, Library of Congress Prints and Photographs Division (LCCN 2002725045). License: Public domain in the United States; Library of Congress states no known restrictions on publication. Source. Location: Nazareth, Israel; print preserved by the Library of Congress. Resized for the web.
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Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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Keep studying Matthew 5:26
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Key themes
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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 5:26 mean in simple terms?
Matthew 5:26 conveys that unresolved issues, particularly in our relationships, must be addressed. Jesus uses the metaphor of a debtor in prison to illustrate that we cannot escape our responsibilities until we have made amends. The phrase 'every last penny' emphasizes that no debt, whether emotional or relational, can be ignored. This verse encourages us to take responsibility for our actions and seek reconciliation.
How can I apply Matthew 5:26 in my life?
To apply Matthew 5:26, focus on resolving conflicts and taking responsibility for your actions. Make an effort to seek forgiveness from those you may have wronged and address any unresolved issues in your relationships. By doing this, you can experience peace and avoid the emotional burden that comes from leaving things unsettled. Remember that true freedom comes from making amends and fulfilling your obligations.
What is the significance of 'every last penny' in this verse?
The phrase 'every last penny' in Matthew 5:26 signifies that all debts, whether financial, emotional, or relational, must be settled completely. It highlights the importance of addressing every issue without overlooking any detail. This serves as a reminder that unresolved conflicts can lead to spiritual and emotional imprisonment, and emphasizes the need for thorough reconciliation in our lives.
Does Matthew 5:26 relate to forgiveness?
Yes, Matthew 5:26 relates closely to the concept of forgiveness. It emphasizes the importance of resolving conflicts and making amends with others. By addressing our debts and seeking forgiveness, we can free ourselves from the emotional burdens that unresolved issues create. This verse encourages us to actively pursue reconciliation, which is a key aspect of living a life aligned with Jesus' teachings.
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