Outrageously Funny Word Dictionary :: Matthew 12:33

👉 Either make the tree good, and his fruit good; or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt: for the tree is known by [his] fruit.

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this verse from Matthew 12:33. It's a really important passage about how things can be both good and bad, and it has some serious implications. Here’s what it means in simpler terms: Think of it like this: A tree grows best when it produces delicious fruit. If the fruit is healthy and plentiful, the tree thrives. But if the fruit isn't very good – maybe it's sour or small – the tree won't be as strong or successful. Let’s break it down into parts: "Either make the tree good, and his fruit good..." This means that if you nurture a person (or a group of people) with goodness, with kindness, and with right actions, they will produce positive results – good deeds, blessings, and a fulfilling life. "...or else make the tree corrupt, and his fruit corrupt:" This is where it gets interesting. If you don't treat people well, if you allow them to be influenced by bad things, or if you don’t lead them in the right direction, they will eventually produce negative results – maybe selfishness, greed, or wrongdoing. "for the tree is known by [his] fruit." This is the key part. The tree itself isn't really important. What matters is what comes out of it – its fruit. The fruit is a reflection of how well the tree is being cared for and nurtured. So, the whole verse is saying: A person’s character (their actions and choices) will ultimately determine their life and the world around them. Good behavior leads to good results, while bad behavior leads to negative consequences. What does this mean in a broader sense? This parable highlights several important truths: Responsibility: We are responsible for our own character and how we treat others. Influence: Our actions influence the world around us. Fruit Matters: The quality of what we produce (our lives, our work, our relationships) is far more significant than simply having something. In short, it's a warning to focus on cultivating good character and doing right things because that’s what truly matters in the end. --- Do you want me to: Explain this verse further with an example? Discuss its significance in a particular context (like Jesus's teaching)?