New Testament
Matthew 5:27
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
You've heard that it was said, 'You shall not commit adultery.'
Compare translations
Ye have heard that it was said by them of old time, Thou shalt not commit adultery:
What Matthew 5:27 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus refers to the commandment against adultery, which is a serious moral violation in the context of marriage. He emphasizes that this commandment is not just about the physical act of cheating but also about the intentions and thoughts behind it. By stating 'You have heard that it was said,' Jesus acknowledges the traditional understanding of the law while preparing to deepen its meaning. He is about to teach that even lustful thoughts can be considered a form of adultery, thus expanding the definition of sin beyond mere actions to include inner desires. This teaching challenges listeners to examine their hearts and minds, highlighting the importance of purity in both thought and deed. It calls for a higher standard of righteousness that goes beyond external compliance with the law, urging individuals to cultivate integrity and faithfulness in all aspects of their lives.
How to apply Matthew 5:27 to your life
This verse encourages us to reflect on our thoughts and intentions, not just our actions. We should strive for purity in our hearts and minds, recognizing that our inner life is just as important as our outward behavior. Practicing self-control and seeking accountability can help us maintain integrity in our relationships.
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: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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 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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Nazareth
The small town in Galilee where Jesus grew up.
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 5:27
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 5:27
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 5:27 mean?
Matthew 5:27 refers to the commandment against adultery, emphasizing that it's not just about the physical act but also about the intentions and thoughts behind it. Jesus teaches that even lustful thoughts can be considered a form of adultery, urging a deeper examination of one's heart and mind.
What is the meaning of adultery in Matthew 5:27?
In Matthew 5:27, adultery is defined not only as the act of cheating on a spouse but also includes lustful thoughts. This broadens the understanding of sin to encompass inner desires, highlighting the importance of purity in both thoughts and actions.
How does Matthew 5:27 apply to our lives today?
Matthew 5:27 encourages individuals to reflect on their thoughts and intentions, promoting purity in both heart and mind. It highlights the need for self-control and accountability in relationships to maintain moral integrity.
What does Jesus teach in Matthew 5:27?
In Matthew 5:27, Jesus teaches that the commandment against adultery extends beyond actions to include lustful thoughts. He calls for a higher standard of righteousness that focuses on the condition of the heart.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.