New Testament
Matthew 7:16
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You'll recognize them by what they produce. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?
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Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
What Matthew 7:16 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus teaches that we can identify true followers by their actions and the outcomes of their lives, which He refers to as 'fruits.' Just as one cannot expect to find grapes on thornbushes or figs on thistles, genuine character and faith will produce good deeds and positive results. This metaphor emphasizes the importance of discernment in recognizing true prophets and teachers. The 'fruits' symbolize the visible evidence of a person's inner character and beliefs. Therefore, it is essential to look beyond mere words and evaluate the actions and behaviors of individuals to determine their true nature. This principle applies not only to spiritual leaders but also to anyone claiming to follow Christ. By observing the fruits of their lives, we can make informed judgments about their authenticity and integrity.
How to apply Matthew 7:16 to your life
To apply this teaching, we should evaluate the actions and outcomes of those who claim to be spiritual leaders or teachers. Instead of taking their words at face value, we should look for evidence of their character through their behavior and the impact they have on others.
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Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
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Photo: Gary Todd (Gary Lee Todd, Ph.D.), via Wikimedia Commons. License: CC0 1.0 Universal Public Domain Dedication. Source. Location: Southern end of the Temple Mount, Jerusalem Old City. Resized for the web.
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At a Glance — the Book of Matthew
- Author
- Matthew the apostle
- Written
- Around AD 60-70
- Genre
- Gospel
- Original Audience
- Jewish Christians
Frequently Asked Questions
Quick, clear answers about this verse
What does Matthew 7:16 mean?
Matthew 7:16 means that you can identify true followers of Jesus by their actions and the results of their lives, which are referred to as 'fruits.' Just as you wouldn't find grapes on thornbushes, genuine faith produces good deeds.
What is the meaning of 'fruits' in Matthew 7:16?
In Matthew 7:16, 'fruits' refer to the visible evidence of a person's character and beliefs, shown through their actions and the impact they have on others. It emphasizes that true faith will naturally result in good works.
How can I apply Matthew 7:16 in my life?
To apply Matthew 7:16, observe the actions and behaviors of those who claim to be spiritual leaders. Look for evidence of their character through their deeds and the positive effects they have on others.
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