New Testament
Matthew 7:19
Read the Bible in clear, modern English—easy to understand, faithful to the meaning, and written for everyday readers.
Every tree that doesn't produce good fruit gets cut down and thrown into the fire.
Compare translations
Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.
What Matthew 7:19 means
Plain-English insight for readers
In this verse, Jesus uses the metaphor of a tree to illustrate the importance of producing good deeds or 'fruit' in our lives. Just as a tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and destroyed, individuals who do not live righteously and contribute positively to the world will face consequences. This teaching emphasizes that our actions reflect our true character and faith. Good fruit symbolizes the positive outcomes of a life aligned with God's will, while bad fruit represents sin and disobedience. The imagery of being thrown into the fire suggests judgment and separation from God. Therefore, this verse serves as a warning to evaluate our lives and ensure that we are living in a way that honors God and benefits others, as our spiritual health is evident through our actions.
How to apply Matthew 7:19 to your life
To apply this teaching, regularly assess your actions and motivations. Strive to produce good fruit by engaging in acts of kindness, honesty, and love. Surround yourself with positive influences that encourage spiritual growth, and seek to align your life with God's teachings to reflect His character.
Curated for this public verse page. Matthew Summary
Learn the Bible through its people and places
Get to know the people in Scripture through illustrated stories, and explore the places where they lived and traveled.
Illustrated scene from Jesus's story: The Sermon on the Mount (Matthew 5:1–7:29)
Meet the people of the Bible
Follow their lives in order, with illustrated scenes and Bible passages that tell their stories.
Jesus
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.
Explore the places of the Bible
See where biblical events happened, why each place matters, and what archaeology helps us understand.
Jerusalem
David's capital, the city of the temple, and the place where Jesus died and rose again.
Get full access with one subscription
Explore the people and places of the Bible. Read summaries of every book, with images and clear explanations covering every chapter. Access all these features and our Bible study tools with one subscription.
See PlansAsk AI about Matthew 7:19
Ask a question about this verse and get a clear answer, with Bible references you can read for yourself.
Every Bible book, explained chapter by chapter
Explore summaries of every book of the Bible, with images and easy-to-understand explanations covering every chapter.
Keep studying Matthew 7:19
Related Bible verses
Key themes
Related topics
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
How does Matthew 7:19 relate to judgment?
Matthew 7:19 emphasizes that those who do not produce good fruit will face judgment, symbolized by being cut down and thrown into the fire. This serves as a warning that our actions have consequences, and living a life disconnected from God's principles can lead to spiritual separation and judgment. It encourages self-reflection on how our lives align with God's expectations.
What are examples of good fruit in a Christian's life?
Examples of good fruit include acts of charity, helping those in need, practicing forgiveness, showing love and compassion, and living with integrity. These actions reflect a heart transformed by faith and a commitment to following Jesus' teachings. Good fruit is not just about avoiding sin but actively contributing positively to the lives of others and the community.
Why does Jesus use the metaphor of a tree in this verse?
Jesus uses the metaphor of a tree to illustrate the idea that just as a tree is known by its fruit, people are known by their actions. A healthy tree produces good fruit, while a barren tree is cut down. This imagery effectively communicates the importance of living a life that bears witness to one's faith and the consequences of failing to do so.
What should I do if I feel I'm not producing good fruit?
If you feel you're not producing good fruit, it's important to take time for self-reflection and prayer. Assess your actions and motivations, seek guidance from Scripture, and consider talking to a trusted spiritual mentor. Engage in practices that foster spiritual growth, such as attending church, participating in community service, and surrounding yourself with supportive influences that encourage you to live righteously.
Daily Verse — straight to your inbox
A verse and a 2-sentence plain-English explanation, every morning. Free. Unsubscribe anytime.