Definition: And Jesus knowing their thoughts said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?

Explanation: Okay, let's break down this verse from Matthew 9:4. It’s a really important and slightly unsettling passage! Here’s an explanation in simpler terms: The Basic Idea: Jesus is noticing something troubling about the people around him – they seem to be thinking bad thoughts or evil things. He’s asking, “Where are you thinking evil in your hearts?” Let's unpack it piece by piece: “Matthew 9:4” : This is the verse itself. It's a specific moment in a story. “Jesus knowing their thoughts” : Jesus isn’t just looking at them; he knows what they're thinking. He's perceptive and discerning. “said, Wherefore think ye evil in your hearts?” This is the key part. “Wherefore” means "why." So, this is a question asking why they are thinking bad things. "Ye" refers to them . What it’s trying to convey: Jesus isn't condemning them. He’s trying to understand their minds and see if something is wrong. It suggests that people can be prone to negative thoughts, even without realizing it. It implies a potential for darkness or wrongdoing within them. Why it's significant in the Bible: This verse is often interpreted as a warning about the importance of controlling our own thoughts and hearts. Jesus is highlighting that we all have the capacity for evil thoughts, and it’s crucial to be aware of them so we can choose to turn away from them. It’s also a reminder that God has a watchful eye on us and understands our inner world. Important Note: It's important to note that this isn’t necessarily about everyone thinking evil. Jesus was observing the individuals around him – he was looking for a particular pattern of negative thought. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss the context of this passage in more detail? Talk about the themes it relates to (like sin, repentance, or God’s grace)?