New Testament
Matthew 7:17
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Every good tree produces good fruit, but a corrupt tree produces bad fruit.
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Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.
What Matthew 7:17 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of trees and their fruit to illustrate a fundamental principle about character and behavior. A good tree, which represents a person with good intentions and moral integrity, will naturally produce good fruit, symbolizing positive actions and outcomes. Conversely, a corrupt tree, representing a person with bad intentions or moral failings, will produce bad fruit, indicating harmful actions and negative consequences. This teaching emphasizes that the nature of a person’s heart and character will ultimately be revealed through their actions. It serves as a reminder that we can discern the true nature of individuals by observing the results of their lives. The verse encourages self-reflection on our own actions and the importance of cultivating a good character to produce positive outcomes in our lives and the lives of others.
How to apply Matthew 7:17 to your life
To apply this teaching, reflect on your own actions and the motivations behind them. Strive to cultivate a good character by engaging in positive behaviors and making choices that align with your values. Surround yourself with influences that encourage good fruit in your life.
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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 7:17 mean by good and corrupt trees?
In Matthew 7:17, good trees symbolize individuals with moral integrity and positive intentions, while corrupt trees represent those with bad intentions or moral failings. The verse teaches that a person's true character is revealed through their actions, just as a tree's quality is shown by the fruit it bears.
How can I apply the message of Matthew 7:17 in my life?
To apply the message of Matthew 7:17, reflect on your actions and motivations. Focus on cultivating a good character by making choices that align with your values and engaging in positive behaviors. Surround yourself with people who inspire you to produce good fruit in your life.
What are examples of good fruit and bad fruit in daily life?
Good fruit can include acts of kindness, honesty, generosity, and love, while bad fruit may manifest as dishonesty, selfishness, anger, or harmful behaviors. Observing the outcomes of your actions can help you identify whether you are producing good or bad fruit.
How does this verse relate to self-reflection?
Matthew 7:17 encourages self-reflection by prompting individuals to examine their own actions and the motivations behind them. By assessing whether your actions align with good character, you can identify areas for growth and improvement in your life.
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