Matthew 7:20
Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.
Original Language Analysis
ἄραγε
Wherefore
G686
ἄραγε
Wherefore
Strong's:
G686
Word #:
1 of 7
a particle denoting an inference more or less decisive (as follows)
ἀπὸ
by
G575
ἀπὸ
by
Strong's:
G575
Word #:
2 of 7
"off," i.e., away (from something near), in various senses (of place, time, or relation; literal or figurative)
τῶν
G3588
τῶν
Strong's:
G3588
Word #:
3 of 7
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
αὐτούς
their
G846
αὐτούς
their
Strong's:
G846
Word #:
5 of 7
the reflexive pronoun self, used (alone or in the comparative g1438) of the third person, and (with the proper personal pronoun) of the other persons
Historical Context
James echoes this teaching: faith without works is dead (James 2:14-26). Paul teaches that we're saved by grace through faith, not works—but we're saved for good works, which God prepared beforehand (Ephesians 2:8-10). Fruit validates faith.
Questions for Reflection
- What fruit is growing in your life that validates genuine faith in Christ?
- How can you encourage fruit-bearing in your church community without fostering legalism?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The conclusion: you shall know them by their fruits. This summarizes the test for false prophets and applies to all believers. Fruit-bearing validates faith. This doesn't mean earning salvation by works, but that genuine saving faith inevitably produces fruit—transformed character, good works, spiritual growth, love for God and others.