Definition: But he said unto them, Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him;

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:3. It’s a really important passage about faith and trust. Here's the explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is asking his followers to think about a story David told. It’s about how he was hungry and relied on others for food. Let’s unpack it: “But he said unto them…” – This means Jesus is speaking directly to a group of people who were listening to him or were involved in his teachings. “…Have ye not read what David did, when he was an hungred, and they that were with him?” – This is the core of the verse. It’s asking if they remember a story David told about being hungry and having friends to help him. What does this mean? This story illustrates a few important points: Faith in Action: It shows that faith isn't just about believing, it's also about doing . David wasn’t just believing he would be fed; he was actively seeking help and relying on others. The Importance of Companionship: The story highlights the value of having people around you. When we’re struggling or in need, it’s often easier to get through difficult times when we have support. It emphasizes that our faith isn't just a feeling, but something that gives us strength and encourages us to persevere. In short, Jesus is reminding his followers to keep their faith alive by remembering the examples of those who trust in God and rely on Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain another Bible verse? Discuss a specific theme related to this passage (like perseverance or trusting God)?

Definition: He that is not with me is against me; and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this really important verse from Matthew 12:30. It's a powerful message about partnership and importance! Here’s the explanation in simpler terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that you need to be involved with Jesus and His teachings to truly have a life of faith and success. If you’re not actively participating, you're falling behind, and your life can become unstable. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “He that is not with me…” – This refers to anyone who doesn't follow Jesus or trust in Him. It means someone who isn't actively involved in His message. "...is against me..." – This suggests that when you don’t follow Jesus, you’re putting yourself at risk of making mistakes, failing to live righteously, and experiencing difficulties. It’s like a storm brewing - you are not prepared for it. "...and he that gathereth not with me scattereth abroad." – This is the key part! “Gathering” means working together, being part of a community, or actively participating in something. "Scattereth abroad" means to be lost, to go astray, or to lose your way. It implies that if you don't work with Jesus and His teachings, you’ll drift away from the path of righteousness and good things. In short: You can't truly thrive without being in the presence of Jesus and actively participating in His life. It’s a strong warning to be committed to following Him and working alongside Him! Why is this important? This verse encourages us to: Be faithful: It emphasizes that loyalty and commitment are vital. Seek guidance: Jesus offers wisdom and direction – we need to listen to Him. Stay on the right path: It’s about staying true to His teachings and avoiding falling into error or bad choices. Do you want me to explain any of this further? For example, would you like me to: Give a real-life example of how this verse applies? Explain what “gathering” might mean in the context of faith?

Definition: Wherefore I say unto you, All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men: but the blasphemy [against] the [Holy] Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:31. It's a really important one about forgiveness and belief. Here’s a simplified explanation: What it means in plain English: “When I tell people to forgive all kinds of sin, including things that are against God, but not things that attack or disrespect the Holy Spirit – that’s what I’m saying.” Let's unpack it further: "Matthew 12:31" : This is a specific passage in the Bible. “Wherefore I say unto you…” : This is Jesus speaking, explaining something important. “Wherefore” means "because" or "for the sake of." “All manner of sin and blasphemy shall be forgiven unto men…” : This part says that God is willing to forgive people for any kind of wrong – big or small – including things like lying, stealing, breaking promises, etc. It’s about letting people off the hook for their mistakes. “…but the blasphemy [against] the Holy Ghost shall not be forgiven unto men.” : This is the crucial part. It says that specifically , things that attack or disrespect God's gift of the Holy Spirit – like denying his power, rejecting his guidance, or saying he’s not real – will not be forgiven. The Holy Spirit is incredibly important to Christians. What does this mean in practice? It means that true faith and belief are essential for a relationship with God. If you deny the truth of Jesus or His teachings, or if your beliefs are based on something that’s against God's will, you won’t be truly forgiven. Why is this important? This verse emphasizes that our relationship with God is built on trust and obedience to his word. It warns us to stay true to the core of our faith – believing in Jesus Christ as the Son of God and following his teachings. In short, it’s a reminder that faith and belief are vital for God's grace. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of things that might be considered “blasphemy”? Discuss the significance of the Holy Spirit within Christianity?

Definition: And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man, it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him, neither in this world, neither in the [world] to come.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:32. It's a really important one about forgiveness and what happens when we criticize God’s Son. Here’s an explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse essentially says that we are to forgive people who speak negatively about Jesus Christ (the Son of Man). But, we won't forgive them if they speak negatively about the Holy Spirit – the one who is God’s gift and power. Let’s unpack it further: “Matthew 12:32” : This is a specific passage in the Bible. It’s a story told by Jesus about a man who was challenging Jesus’ teachings. “And whosoever speaketh a word against the Son of man…” – This means someone who says something bad or disrespectful about Jesus. It's a general call to be careful what you say about him. "...it shall be forgiven him: but whosoever speaketh against the Holy Ghost, it shall not be forgiven him..." – This is the crucial part! It’s saying that God does forgive people who criticize Jesus, but He won't forgive them if they criticize the Holy Spirit. What does this mean in practice? Forgiveness is a gift: Jesus tells us to be merciful and forgiving – especially towards those who are wrong. The Holy Spirit is important: The Holy Spirit is God’s power, guidance, and presence within believers. It's essential for the Christian faith. Criticism of the Holy Spirit is a big deal: If someone attacks the Holy Spirit, it's like attacking God himself! It’s considered serious and will lead to eternal consequences. Why does this happen? Jesus says this because the Holy Spirit is essential for Christians to believe in Him and follow His teachings. If someone rejects or undermines the Holy Spirit, it can disrupt the whole Christian community and cause harm. In short: Jesus emphasizes that we need to treat everyone with respect – especially those who are close to God – and avoid speaking negatively about the divine gifts of God. It’s a reminder of our responsibility to love and honor Him. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give you some examples of what someone might say that could be considered criticism of the Holy Spirit?

Definition: Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by [his] fruit.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:33. It's a really important passage about how things can be both good and bad, and it has some serious implications. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Think of it like this: A tree grows best when it produces delicious fruit. If the fruit is healthy and plentiful, the tree thrives. But if the fruit isn't very good – maybe it's sour or small – the tree won't be as strong or successful. Let’s break it down into parts: "Either make the tree good, and his fruit good..." This means that if you nurture a person (or a group of people) with goodness, with kindness, and with right actions, they will produce positive results – good deeds, blessings, and a fulfilling life. "...or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt:" This is where it gets interesting. If you don't treat people well, if you allow them to be influenced by bad things, or if you don’t lead them in the right direction, they will eventually produce negative results – maybe selfishness, greed, or wrongdoing. "for the tree is known by [his] fruit." This is the key part. The tree itself isn't really important. What matters is what comes out of it – its fruit. The fruit is a reflection of how well the tree is being cared for and nurtured. So, the whole verse is saying: A person’s character (their actions and choices) will ultimately determine their life and the world around them. Good behavior leads to good results, while bad behavior leads to negative consequences. What does this mean in a broader sense? This parable highlights several important truths: Responsibility: We are responsible for our own character and how we treat others. Influence: Our actions influence the world around us. Fruit Matters: The quality of what we produce (our lives, our work, our relationships) is far more significant than simply having something. In short, it's a warning to focus on cultivating good character and doing right things because that’s what truly matters in the end. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss its significance in a particular context (like Jesus's teaching)?

Definition: O generation of vipers, how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:34. It's a really important and slightly provocative statement about human nature and speech. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is saying that people are designed to speak truthfully and honestly, but often, our hearts (our thoughts and feelings) can be influenced by things like negativity, pride, or bad desires. It's pointing out a natural tendency for people to express negative things – even when they don’t mean it – because of how their hearts are operating. Let’s unpack it piece by piece: “O generation of vipers…” : This is a bit of an old-fashioned way of saying "people." "Vipers" means people who are deceitful, lying, and trying to trick others. It's a metaphorical term for those with negative intentions. “…how can ye, being evil, speak good things?” : This asks: “Can people who are inherently flawed – who have bad hearts – be truly kind and positive?” “For out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaks” : This is the core of the message. It means that when our hearts are full of negativity (like anger, jealousy, pride, or fear), our mouths will naturally speak those negative things. "Abundance" suggests a lot – a large amount of something bad. So, what does this mean practically? It’s suggesting that people who aren't truly good at their hearts are more likely to say hurtful or unkind things than someone with a pure and positive heart. It's about the quality of our speech, not just the words we use. Why is this important? Jesus often uses this kind of imagery to teach us about: The importance of humility: It encourages us to be honest with ourselves and not pretend to be better than we are. Self-reflection: It reminds us that we need to examine our hearts and try to cultivate goodness and kindness. In short, the verse is a gentle but powerful reminder that our thoughts and feelings have a direct impact on what we say. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give an example of how it might apply to a specific situation?

Definition: A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:35. It's a really important idea about our choices and how we impact ourselves and others. Here’s what it means in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is saying that people are capable of making different kinds of choices – some good, some bad. It highlights the difference between spiritually good and sinfully bad actions. Let's break it down into parts: “A good man out of the good treasure of the heart…” - This refers to someone who is kind, compassionate, generous, and motivated by a desire to do what’s right. "Good treasure of the heart" means their heart is filled with goodness – love, compassion, forgiveness, etc. "...bringeth forth good things..." - This suggests that this person consistently produces positive results, acts with kindness, and helps others. They are a source of joy and benefit to themselves and those around them. "...an evil man out of the evil treasure of the heart…” – This is where it gets interesting. This describes someone who is driven by anger, selfishness, greed, or malice. “Evil treasure” represents a heart filled with negativity and destructive impulses. "...bringeth forth evil things." - This means that this person consistently causes harm, suffering, and unhappiness – they are a source of pain and trouble. They’re often selfish, hurtful, and don't consider the impact their actions have on others. In essence, the verse is saying that our choices determine how we live. We can choose to cultivate good within ourselves (our heart), which leads to positive outcomes, while choosing to embrace evil (our thoughts and actions) leads to negative consequences. What it means for us: We have a choice: We are constantly making decisions that shape our lives. Our choices matter: Our attitudes and behaviors have a significant impact on ourselves and others. It’s about the source of our actions: It's not just what we do, but why we do it – our intentions and motivations are crucial. Important Note: This verse isn't saying that everyone is inherently evil. It's a reminder that we all have the potential to choose good or bad. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse in more detail? Give some examples of how these "good and evil treasures" might manifest in our lives?

Definition: But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:36. It’s a pretty serious warning about our words and how we’ll be held accountable. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Core Idea: Jesus is telling us to think carefully about what we say and don’t say. He’s saying that our words have consequences. We can’t just talk without thinking, and those thoughts will be judged by God. Let's unpack it piece by piece: “But I say unto you…” – This is Jesus using a slightly dramatic tone to emphasize his point. He’s setting up a challenge. “…That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment.” – This is the big part. "Idle words" means anything we say that isn't really focused on God or His will. "The day of judgment” refers to a future time when God will look back on everything we’ve done and decide what happens to us. What does it mean in practical terms? Don’t Gossip: Talking about others behind their backs is wrong, and it can hurt people. Say Something You Don't Mean: If you say something hurtful or unkind, even if you don't intend for it to be, it will be judged. Waste Our Time: Focusing on unimportant things or wasting time talking about ourselves will be seen as a waste of God’s time and is not good. It’s about responsibility: Jesus isn't saying we shouldn’t talk. He's emphasizing that we need to be mindful of what we say and how it impacts others. Our words are a gift, but they have a responsibility to be used wisely and with consideration for God and the people around us. In short: Think carefully before you speak! Your words matter, and God will eventually judge them. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the significance of this passage in a specific context (like forgiveness)?

Definition: For by thy words thou shalt be justified, and by thy words thou shalt be condemned.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous verse from Matthew 12:37: “For by your words thou shalt be justified, and by your words thou shalt be condemned.” Here's what it means in simpler terms: This is a really powerful statement about the importance of our speech and what we say. It essentially says that what you say – both good and bad – will determine your fate. Let’s unpack it: “By your words…” : This refers to everything you say, whether it's a kind word or a hurtful one. “…justified” : “Justified” means declared righteous, right, and accepted by God. It means you are considered good and worthy of reward. Think of it like being crowned with a crown – you’re officially recognized as worthy. “…and by your words thou shalt be condemned.” : This is the opposite of justification. It means that if you say something wrong, hurtful, or disrespectful, you will be marked as not righteous and will face punishment (condemnation). Think of it like this: Your words are a powerful tool. They can build up people and bring goodness into the world, or they can tear down relationships and create negativity. The core message is about responsibility. We are accountable for what we say and how we speak. Our words have consequences – good or bad. Important Note: It's often misunderstood that this verse means every single word will determine your fate. But it’s more nuanced than that. It emphasizes the impact of our words, particularly when they are spoken with malice, deceit, or disrespect. --- Do you want me to: Explain a specific aspect of the verse in more detail? (e.g., what kind of speech is considered wrong?) Give examples of how we can use our words positively? Discuss the historical context of this verse?

Definition: Then certain of the scribes and of the Pharisees answered, saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:38. It’s a really important part of understanding Jesus’ teachings about His authority and how He will reveal Himself to people. Here's what it means in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is telling these people – the scribes (who were scholars and record keepers) and the Pharisees (who were leaders of the Jewish religious community) – that they’re skeptical about how He will show their belief in Him. They're asking, "How can we know He's really here?" Let’s unpack it further: “Certain of…” This means they have a strong feeling and expectation that something extraordinary is going to happen. They aren’t just curious; they believe there must be something significant. “…and of the Pharisees…” The Pharisees were very important leaders in the Jewish religious system, known for their interpretations of the Law and their strict adherence to tradition. They held a lot of power and influence. “…saying, Master, we would see a sign from thee.” This is the core of their question. They're asking if Jesus will perform some amazing miracle – something that proves He’s God and can do anything. What does it really mean? Jesus was subtly challenging these people to think about the possibility of His divine power. It wasn’t just about a miraculous event; it was about the potential for a profound, undeniable demonstration of God's presence. He was prompting them to consider that He could do more than simply follow the rules – He could be revealed in a way that would truly impact people's lives. Why is this important? This verse sets the stage for Jesus’ later teachings about His authority and how He will reveal Himself to the world. It's a hint that He wasn't just going to do miracles; He was going to show who He truly was – God incarnate. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss this verse in more detail (like its context)?