Matthew 6:23

08 Sermon on the Mount, Luce Memorial Window, 1902, Tiffany Studios - Arlington Street Church - Boston, Massachusetts - DSC06980

Matthew 6:23 is a verse from the Gospel of Matthew in the New Testament of the Christian Bible. This verse is part of the Sermon on the Mount, one of the most well-known teachings of Jesus. The verse directly follows Matthew 6:22, which talks about the "eye" being the lamp of the body, suggesting that if one's vision is clear, their whole body will be full of light. Conversely, Matthew 6:23 states, "But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness!"

Textual Interpretation

The verse emphasizes the importance of spiritual sight or perception. The "eye" metaphorically represents one's ability to perceive and understand spiritual truths. An "unhealthy" or "evil" eye symbolizes a lack of understanding or a misguided perception, leading to spiritual darkness. This teaching underscores the significance of having a clear and righteous vision in life, as it affects one's entire being and the way they perceive the world around them.

The concept of light and darkness in this verse is deeply rooted in biblical symbolism. Light often represents goodness, truth, and God's presence, while darkness signifies evil, falsehood, and the absence of God. Therefore, the verse warns against the spiritual blindness that leads to darkness and away from the light of truth.

Context in the Sermon on the Mount

Matthew 6:23 is part of a larger section within the Sermon on the Mount that addresses the theme of trust in God and the rejection of materialism. The verses surrounding it, including Matthew 6:19-24, specifically caution against the accumulation of earthly treasures and the divided loyalties that can arise from serving both God and wealth. This verse, therefore, serves as a metaphorical bridge between the teachings on materialism and the spiritual clarity required to follow God's will.

Theological Significance

The theological implications of Matthew 6:23 are significant within Christian thought. It challenges believers to examine their spiritual vision and priorities, encouraging a focus on the eternal and divine rather than the temporal and material. The verse is often interpreted as a call to introspection and spiritual renewal, urging individuals to seek a deeper relationship with God and a greater understanding of His truths.

See Also

• Sermon on the Mount
• Gospel of Matthew
• New Testament
• Christianity
• Biblical symbolism