What does Matthew 12:7 mean?

Matthew 12:7 highlights themes such as faith and obedience when read in context.

How should I apply Matthew 12:7 today?

Read the surrounding passage, compare related cross references, and turn the verse into a short prayer and concrete action.

But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.

5Or have ye not read in the law, how that on the sabbath days the priests in the temple profane the sabbath, and are blameless?

6But I say unto you, That in this place is one greater than the temple.

7But if ye had known what this meaneth, I will have mercy, and not sacrifice, ye would not have condemned the guiltless.

8For the Son of man is Lord even of the sabbath day.

9And when he was departed thence, he went into their synagogue:

faithgracehope