King James Version

What Does Matthew 15:13 Mean?

Matthew 15:13 in the King James Version says “But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 15 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.”

Matthew 15:13 · KJV

Context

11

Not that which goeth into the mouth defileth a man; but that which cometh out of the mouth, this defileth a man.

12

Then came his disciples, and said unto him, Knowest thou that the Pharisees were offended, after they heard this saying?

13

But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.

14

Let them alone: they be blind leaders of the blind. And if the blind lead the blind, both shall fall into the ditch.

15

Then answered Peter and said unto him, Declare unto us this parable.

Read Matthew 15 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
This text illustrates key Reformed principles: sola Scriptura, sola gratia, and sola fide. The passage demonstrates how God's Word speaks authoritatively to human need, revealing both our depravity and God's merciful provision through Christ.

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Historical & Cultural Context

First-century Palestine was marked by religious fervor and political tension. The passage reflects interactions between Jesus and various groups: Pharisees, Sadducees, disciples, and crowds. Each audience received teaching tailored to their needs and spiritual condition.

Reflection Questions

  1. What does this text reveal about human nature and God's grace?
  2. How can you apply this teaching to current struggles or questions?
  3. What changes in thinking or behavior does this passage require?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 15 words
ὁ1 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

δὲ2 of 15

“But”

G1161

but, and, etc

ἀποκριθεὶς3 of 15

“he answered”

G611

to conclude for oneself, i.e., (by implication) to respond; by hebraism (compare h6030) to begin to speak (where an address is expected)

εἶπεν4 of 15

“and said”

G2036

to speak or say (by word or writing)

Πᾶσα5 of 15

“Every”

G3956

all, any, every, the whole

φυτεία6 of 15

“plant”

G5451

trans-planting, i.e., (concretely) a shrub or vegetable

ἣν7 of 15

“which”

G3739

the relatively (sometimes demonstrative) pronoun, who, which, what, that

οὐκ8 of 15

“not”

G3756

the absolute negative (compare g3361) adverb; no or not

ἐφύτευσεν9 of 15

“hath”

G5452

to set out in the earth, i.e., implant; figuratively, to instil doctrine

ὁ10 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

πατήρ11 of 15

“Father”

G3962

a "father" (literally or figuratively, near or more remote)

μου12 of 15

“my”

G3450

of me

ὁ13 of 15
G3588

the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)

οὐράνιος14 of 15

“heavenly”

G3770

celestial, i.e., belonging to or coming from the sky

ἐκριζωθήσεται15 of 15

“shall be rooted up”

G1610

to uproot

Study Guide

Historical Context

This verse is found in the book of Matthew. Understanding the historical and cultural background helps illuminate its meaning for the original audience and for us today.

Theological Significance

Matthew 15:13 contributes to our understanding of God's character and His relationship with humanity. Consider how this verse connects to the broader themes of Scripture.

Cross-References

Verses related to Matthew 15:13 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

John 15:2Isaiah 60:21John 15:6Isaiah 61:3Psalms 92:13Matthew 13:40-41

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