Definition: Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own? Is thine eye evil, because I am good?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this famous passage from Matthew 20:15. It's a really important one about God’s love and our responsibility to follow His plan. Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: This verse is asking if it’s okay for us to disobey God’s will, even when we think we’re doing the right thing. It’s a question about free will versus obedience. Let's unpack it word by word: "Is it not lawful for me to do what I will with mine own?" – This is like saying, “I can choose my own path, and I’m going to follow it.” It’s a statement of personal autonomy and responsibility. It implies that you get to decide how you want to live your life. "Is thine eye evil, because I am good?" – This is the core of the question. It's asking if our actions are wrong simply because we’re acting in accordance with God’s plan. The word "evil" here isn't meant to be a harsh judgment; it's more about disobedience or breaking His will . What does this mean, practically? Jesus is essentially saying: “You have the freedom to choose your own path, but you must also honor God’s plan. If you disobey Him, even with good intentions, that’s not right.” It’s about respecting God’s authority and keeping His commandments. The Significance & Context: This passage is often interpreted as a reminder of our responsibility to listen to God's guidance. It suggests that we shouldn’t just do what feels right, but rather, should consider whether those actions align with God's will. It also highlights the importance of obedience – following God’s instructions – because it protects us from straying away from His plan for our lives. In short: Jesus is asking if we are truly free to choose, or if our choices are simply a matter of doing what we want, even if that means disobeying Him. --- To help me explain it even better and tailor it to your needs, could you tell me: What's the context for this verse? (Are you reading it in a specific book or study?) What are you hoping to understand from this verse? (e.g., Are you struggling with making difficult decisions? Do you want to know more about obedience?)