And Jesus, knowing their thoughts, said, “Why are you thinking evil things in your hearts?”
Jesus, being the Son of God, was able to see people’s thoughts and the true motives hidden within them. When the scribes accused Him in their hearts because He granted forgiveness of sins, Jesus addressed their thoughts plainly. He asked them why they were keeping evil thoughts in their hearts. This question reveals that Jesus is able to see not only outward behavior, but also the secrets and intentions of the heart. He shows that an evil mindset is an obstacle to true faith, and also to grasping the truth about who Jesus really is.