Matthew 15:13
But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.
Original Language Analysis
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
1 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
ἀποκριθεὶς
he answered
G611
ἀποκριθεὶς
he answered
Strong's:
G611
Word #:
3 of 15
to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)
φυτεία
plant
G5451
φυτεία
plant
Strong's:
G5451
Word #:
6 of 15
trans-planting, i.e., (concretely) a shrub or vegetable
ἣν
which
G3739
ἣν
which
Strong's:
G3739
Word #:
7 of 15
the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that
ἐφύτευσεν
hath
G5452
ἐφύτευσεν
hath
Strong's:
G5452
Word #:
9 of 15
to set out in the earth, i.e., implant; figuratively, to instil doctrine
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
10 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
πατήρ
Father
G3962
πατήρ
Father
Strong's:
G3962
Word #:
11 of 15
a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)
ὁ
G3588
ὁ
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
13 of 15
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
Cross References
John 15:2Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit.Isaiah 60:21Thy people also shall be all righteous: they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.John 15:6If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned.Isaiah 61:3To appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them beauty for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they might be called trees of righteousness, the planting of the LORD, that he might be glorified.Psalms 92:13Those that be planted in the house of the LORD shall flourish in the courts of our God.1 Corinthians 3:9For we are labourers together with God: ye are God's husbandry, ye are God's building.
Historical Context
First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.
Questions for Reflection
- What does this text reveal about human nature and God's grace?
- How can you apply this teaching to current struggles or questions?
- What changes in thinking or behavior does this passage require?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.