In Mark 7, Jesus delivers one of His most challenging teachings — that what truly defiles a person is not what they eat, touch, or observe externally, but what flows from the heart. In this week’s Apprenticeship to Jesus podcast episode, Nick and Kylie unpack this powerful truth, explore the tension between God’s commands and human traditions, and reflect on two incredible miracles: the faith of the Syrophoenician woman and the healing of a deaf man.
Section 1 – Setting the Scene
The chapter begins with a confrontation. The Pharisees and scribes notice that some of Jesus’ disciples eat without performing the ceremonial handwashing required by tradition. They question Jesus, but His response cuts to the heart: external rituals mean little if the heart is far from God.
Jesus quotes Isaiah, calling out hypocrisy — honoring God with lips while hearts remain distant. He warns that elevating human traditions above God’s commands voids the Word of God.
Section 2 – What Really Defiles Us
In verses 14–23, Jesus makes a radical statement:
“Nothing outside a person can defile them… it’s what comes out of their heart.”
He lists the sins that spring from within — evil thoughts, sexual immorality, theft, murder, adultery, greed, deceit, envy, slander, pride, and foolishness. This teaching shifts the focus from external purity laws to internal transformation.
Section 3 – Faith Beyond Boundaries
Next, Jesus travels to the region of Tyre and Sidon, where a Gentile woman pleads for her daughter’s healing. Despite initial resistance, her humble persistence moves Jesus to act — and her daughter is freed from the unclean spirit. This moment shows that faith transcends cultural and religious boundaries.
Section 4 – Healing the Deaf and Mute
In the Decapolis, people bring Jesus a man who cannot hear or speak. Jesus heals him privately, saying “Ephphatha” (“Be opened”). The man’s ears are opened, his tongue loosened, and he speaks plainly. The crowd is astonished:
“He has done all things well. He even makes the deaf hear and the mute speak.”
Section 5 – Applying Mark 7 Today
Mark 7 challenges us to examine our hearts. Are we clinging to traditions that overshadow God’s commands? Are we more concerned with outward appearances than inward holiness? This week, consider:
How can I guard my heart from the things that defile?
Where do I need to let go of man-made rules and embrace God’s truth?
How can I show persistent faith like the Syrophoenician woman?
Weekly Spiritual Practices:
Personal Worship: Play worship songs and spend time praising God.
Scripture Memory: Memorize Romans 8:28.
Creative Worship: Color Bible verse art as an act of devotion.
Listen to the Episode:
🎧 Apprenticeship to Jesus – Week 7: Clean vs. Unclean
[https://2minutedisciple.fireside.fm/198]
Closing:
Mark 7 reminds us that discipleship is about more than rituals — it’s about a transformed heart. As you listen to this week’s episode, may you be encouraged to live from the inside out, letting the love and truth of Jesus flow through every part of your life.