Matthew 13:15
For this people’s heart is waxed gross, and their ears are dull of hearing, and their eyes they have closed; lest at any time they should see with their eyes and hear with their ears, and should understand with their heart, and should be converted, and I should heal them.
Matthew 13:15
Jesus cites the people’s “waxed gross” hearts, dull hearing, and closed eyes to explain why many reject his message. In Jewish thought, a hard heart is stubbornness that resists God’s call to repentance; “ears dull” implies ignore or avert hearing, and “eyes closed” suggests avoidance of vision and instruction. His audience is told that their condition prevents them from spiritual conversion and healing, unless they respond differently. The phrase echoes prophetic warnings about coming judgment when people resist the Spirit’s work. The immediate context is a string of parables about the kingdom; if the hearers approach such stories with closed hearts, they miss the deeper meaning of Jesus’ mission.
This verse centers on the ongoing tension between divine invitation and human response. It underscores that receptivity to God’s word is essential for transformation—without it, healing and conversion remain out of reach. Theologically, it highlights grace’s availability and human responsibility: God offers healing; humans must choose openness. It also clarifies why some experience revelation while others do not, not because God withholds truth, but because hearts are not prepared to receive it.
Reflect on what keeps your heart open: busyness, pride, fear of change, or comfort in moral routines. Practical steps: cultivate repentance as a regular posture; invite God to reveal how you might be resisting truth. When you feel challenged by Scripture or conviction, resist defensiveness and ask, “What are you showing me, Lord?” Maintain a daily practice that trains your senses—reading, prayer, accountability partners, and confession. If you’re teaching others, model openness to correction and feedback.
Cross-References: Psalm 95:8-9; Ezekiel 12:2-3; Hebrews 3:7-8; John 12:40; Acts 28:27