What does Matthew 7:20 mean?

Explanation

The verse "Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them." from Matthew 7:20 (KJV) is part of a larger discourse commonly called the Sermon on the Mount.

In this verse, Jesus concludes a metaphorical teaching on the nature of true and false prophets.

Literally, fruits are the product of a tree, and can be seen as representing the deeds and outcomes of a person's life.

The deeper meaning suggests that just as a tree is known by the quality of the fruit it produces, one can discern the true character and intentions of a person (in this case, prophets) by their actions and teachings, not merely by their words or appearances.

Historical Context

Matthew 7:20 was written in the context of the early Christian community dealing with issues of false teachings and prophets.

During this period, the followers of Jesus were seeking to understand what distinguished true messengers of God from those who were false.

The metaphor uses the common knowledge of agriculture and observation of trees being known by their fruit, which would be well understood by the primarily agrarian society of that era.

Theological Insights

Different theological perspectives can be applied to this verse:

• Traditional Christian theology may interpret this verse as a warning to be vigilant about discerning truth from deception within spiritual teachings and leaders.
• Evangelical Christians may see this as an affirmation of the necessity of genuine transformation and evidence of a person's salvation.
• Catholic theology might incorporate this verse when discussing the concept of "good works" as evidence of faith.
• Liberation theology may use this verse to emphasize the importance of actions in the fight against social injustice, viewing "fruits" as the results of advocating for the oppressed.

Practical Applications

In daily life, Matthew 7:20 can be applied in various ways:

• Encouraging individuals to assess the integrity and authenticity of leaders and influencers by examining their actions.
• Inspiring self-reflection on one's own actions and their reflection of personal beliefs and values.
• Guiding choices in personal relationships and partnerships, looking for consistency between words and behavior.

Cross-References

• "Ye shall know them by their fruits.

Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?" (Matthew 7:16)

• "A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit." (Matthew 7:18)
• "For every tree is known by his own fruit." (Luke 6:44)
• "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith," (Galatians 5:22)

Language Study

In the original Greek text:

• "fruits" (καρπούς, karpos) means fruit, result, or work.
• "ye shall know" (ἐπιγνώσεσθε, epignōsesthe) implies recognition or knowledge after observation or experience.

This language emphasizes that recognition of the true nature comes from the observation of outcomes or results.

Cultural and Religious Comparisons

Comparisons can be drawn between this Judeo-Christian concept and other traditions:

• In Buddhism, the consequences of a person's actions (Karma) reflect their moral quality.
• In Hinduism, the tree is also a representation of life, with fruits symbolizing actions and their moral results.
• Ancient Greek mythology sometimes personified virtues and vices through the imagery of trees and fruits.

Scientific Perspectives

Scientifically, one might consider the modern understanding of observable behaviors in psychology as indicators of underlying thought patterns and character, akin to "fruits" indicating the nature of a "tree." Behavioral science supports the idea that consistent patterns of action can reveal an individual's character traits and motivations.

Commentaries

Various biblical scholars and commentators have provided thoughts on this verse:

• John Calvin noted that good works can only come from a heart that is rooted in God's grace.
• Matthew Henry emphasized the practical necessity of judging prophets by their life and doctrine.
• William Barclay cautioned against using this verse to make harsh judgments instead of discerning wisdom with humility and love.

These interpretations reflect a consensus that a person's visible actions provide insight into their inherent character or faithfulness.