Matthew 7:18
A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.
Original Language Analysis
πονηροὺς
evil
G4190
πονηροὺς
evil
Strong's:
G4190
Word #:
6 of 13
hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455
ποιεῖν
bring forth
G4160
ποιεῖν
bring forth
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
7 of 13
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
σαπρὸν
can a corrupt
G4550
σαπρὸν
can a corrupt
Strong's:
G4550
Word #:
10 of 13
rotten, i.e., worthless (literally or morally)
Historical Context
Pharisees presented as good trees but bore corrupt fruit—hypocrisy, pride, hardness toward people, externalism. Jesus exposed them repeatedly. Paul warns of those having 'a form of godliness but denying the power thereof' (2 Timothy 3:5).
Questions for Reflection
- How long does it typically take for someone's true character to become evident?
- What fruit in your life is inconsistent with a profession of faith in Christ?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
Good trees cannot bring forth bad fruit; corrupt trees cannot bring forth good fruit. This absolute statement emphasizes the impossibility of faking spiritual fruit long-term. Eventually, true character shows. Hypocrites may deceive temporarily, but fruit-testing reveals truth over time.