New Testament · Mark 7

What does Mark chapter 7 mean?

Clean and unclean — the heart matters

Summary of Mark 7

Jesus exposes hollow tradition, declares all foods clean, and heals a Syrophoenician woman's daughter and a deaf man.

Key takeaway

God cares about hearts, not just hands — and His grace reaches every nation.

How Mark 7 fits the whole book

Mark's fast-moving gospel portrays Jesus in action — the powerful Son of God who serves and suffers for sinners. Chapter 7 of Mark contributes to this larger story by deepening one or more of the book's themes — for example, god's character and glory and sin, grace, and redemption.

Anchor verse from Mark

"The kingdom of God is at hand; repent and believe in the gospel."
Mark 1:15