Matthew 7:19
Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
Original Language Analysis
μὴ
not
G3361
μὴ
not
Strong's:
G3361
Word #:
3 of 11
(adverb) not, (conjunction) lest; also (as an interrogative implying a negative answer (whereas g3756 expects an affirmative one)) whether
ποιοῦν
forth
G4160
ποιοῦν
forth
Strong's:
G4160
Word #:
4 of 11
to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)
καλὸν
good
G2570
καλὸν
good
Strong's:
G2570
Word #:
6 of 11
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
καὶ
and
G2532
καὶ
and
Strong's:
G2532
Word #:
8 of 11
and, also, even, so then, too, etc.; often used in connection (or composition) with other particles or small words
εἰς
into
G1519
εἰς
into
Strong's:
G1519
Word #:
9 of 11
to or into (indicating the point reached or entered), of place, time, or (figuratively) purpose (result, etc.); also in adverbial phrases
Cross References
Matthew 3:10And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.Hebrews 6:8But that which beareth thorns and briers is rejected, and is nigh unto cursing; whose end is to be burned.Luke 3:9And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.Jude 1:12These are spots in your feasts of charity, when they feast with you, feeding themselves without fear: clouds they are without water, carried about of winds; trees whose fruit withereth, without fruit, twice dead, plucked up by the roots;Isaiah 27:11When the boughs thereof are withered, they shall be broken off: the women come, and set them on fire: for it is a people of no understanding: therefore he that made them will not have mercy on them, and he that formed them will shew them no favour.
Historical Context
John the Baptist used similar language warning Pharisees that the axe is already laid at the tree's root (Matthew 3:10). Jesus repeats the warning, emphasizing that religious pedigree doesn't guarantee salvation—fruit does, and fruit reveals genuine faith.
Questions for Reflection
- If your life were a tree examined for fruit, what evidence would justify not cutting it down?
- How does this warning against fruitlessness motivate growth in holiness and good works?
Related Resources
Explore related topics, people, and study resources to deepen your understanding of this passage.
Analysis & Commentary
Every tree not bearing good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. This sobering warning addresses false professors and fruitless professors alike. Mere profession means nothing without transformation and fruit. The fire represents final judgment—eternal consequences for fruitlessness.