New Testament

Luke 6:43

The Clear Bible Translation matches the King James Version, written at a 10th-grade reading level in plain English

At a Glance

In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and their fruit to illustrate a fundamental truth about character and behavior.

Author
Luke the physician
Written
Around AD 60-62
Genre
Gospel and history
Original Audience
Gentile Christians (addressed to Theophilus)
CBTClear Bible Translation

A good tree doesn't produce rotten fruit, and a rotten tree doesn't produce good fruit.

KJVKing James Version

For a good tree bringeth not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

Verse Analysis

Plain-English insight for readers

In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and their fruit to illustrate a fundamental truth about character and behavior. A good tree, which represents a person with good character, naturally produces good fruit, symbolizing positive actions and outcomes. Conversely, a rotten tree, representing a person with bad character, cannot produce good fruit. This teaching emphasizes that the nature of a person’s heart and character will ultimately determine their actions and the impact they have on others. It serves as a reminder that true goodness comes from within and that we should evaluate ourselves and others based on the fruits of our lives, which reflect our inner state. This principle encourages self-examination and the pursuit of genuine goodness, as our actions reveal our true nature. Explore related integrity.

How to apply Luke 6:43 to your life

To apply this teaching, reflect on your own actions and motivations. Consider whether they align with good character. Strive to cultivate positive qualities in your life, as they will naturally lead to good outcomes. Surround yourself with those who exhibit good fruit, as they can inspire and support your growth.

Curated for this public verse page. Luke Summary

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick, clear answers about this verse

What does Luke 6:43 mean?

Luke 6:43 uses the metaphor of trees and their fruit to illustrate that a person's character determines their actions. A good person naturally produces good deeds, while a bad person cannot produce good outcomes.

What is the meaning of 'good tree' in Luke 6:43?

In Luke 6:43, a 'good tree' symbolizes a person with good character, who naturally produces positive actions and outcomes, reflecting their inner goodness.

What is the significance of 'rotten fruit' in Luke 6:43?

'Rotten fruit' in Luke 6:43 represents the negative actions and consequences that come from a person with bad character. It highlights that one's inner nature directly affects their behavior.

How can I apply Luke 6:43 to my life?

To apply Luke 6:43, reflect on your actions and motivations to ensure they align with good character. Focus on cultivating positive qualities and surround yourself with those who inspire goodness.

The Book of Luke
Book Summary

The Book of Luke

Luke 1: The Births of John the Baptist and Jesus Foretold

In the days of Herod, king of Judaea, a priest named Zacharias serves in the temple. He and his wife Elisabeth are both righteous but have no children because Elisabeth is barren, and they are both old. While Zacharias burns incense, the angel Gabriel appears to him and says Elisabeth will bear a son who is to be named John. The child will be great before the Lord, will drink no wine or strong drink, and will be filled with the Holy Ghost from his mother's womb. He will turn many of the children of Israel to the Lord their God. Zacharias asks how he can know this, since he and his wife are old. Gabriel says Zacharias will be unable to speak until these things come to pass because he did not believe.

Premium

Unlock the full Luke summary

Continue reading every chapter — themes, structure, and turning points.

The complete summary of Luke — a chapter-by-chapter breakdown covering all 24 chapters.

What you get

Every chapter of Luke summarized in clear, modern English

How each section connects — narrative flow, key themes, and turning points

Permanent access — read anytime, on any device

Best Value

Best value • Save over 90%

or

One-time purchase • Access anytime

ClearBible summaries are proprietary content and may not be copied, republished, or resold.

Checkout works as a guest. After payment, you create an account to claim your unlock.