What does Matthew 15:17 mean?

Matthew 15:17 highlights themes such as faith and obedience when read in context.

How should I apply Matthew 15:17 today?

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

Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?

15Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.

16And Jesus said, Are ye also yet without understanding?

17Do not ye yet understand, that whatsoever entereth in at the mouth goeth into the belly, and is cast out into the draught?

18But those things which proceed out of the mouth come forth from the heart; and they defile the man.

19For out of the heart proceed evil thoughts, murders, adulteries, fornications, thefts, false witness, blasphemies:

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