King James Version

What Does Matthew 7:18 Mean?

Matthew 7:18 in the King James Version says “A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.” — study this verse from Matthew chapter 7 with commentary, cross-references, and original Greek word analysis.

“A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.”

Matthew 7:18 · KJV

Context

16

Ye shall know them by their fruits . Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

17

Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit.

18

A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit.

19

Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.

20

Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

Read Matthew 7 full chapter

Commentary

KJV Study Commentary
Good trees cannot bring forth bad fruit; corrupt trees cannot bring forth good fruit. This absolute statement emphasizes the impossibility of faking spiritual fruit long-term. Eventually, true character shows. Hypocrites may deceive temporarily, but fruit-testing reveals truth over time.

KJV Study — Public Domain

Historical & Cultural Context

Pharisees presented as good trees but bore corrupt fruit—hypocrisy, pride, hardness toward people, externalism. Jesus exposed them repeatedly. Paul warns of those having 'a form of godliness but denying the power thereof' (2 Timothy 3:5).

Reflection Questions

  1. How long does it typically take for someone's true character to become evident?
  2. What fruit in your life is inconsistent with a profession of faith in Christ?

Original Language Analysis

Greek · 13 words
οὐ1 of 13

“cannot”

G3756

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

δύναται2 of 13
G1410

to be able or possible

δένδρον3 of 13

“tree”

G1186

a tree

ἀγαθὸν4 of 13

“A good”

G18

"good" (in any sense, often as noun)

καρποὺς5 of 13

“fruit”

G2590

fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively

πονηροὺς6 of 13

“evil”

G4190

hurtful, i.e., evil (properly, in effect or influence, and thus differing from g2556, which refers rather to essential character, as well as from g455

ποιεῖν7 of 13

“bring forth”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

οὐδὲ8 of 13

“neither”

G3761

not however, i.e., neither, nor, not even

δένδρον9 of 13

“tree”

G1186

a tree

σαπρὸν10 of 13

“can a corrupt”

G4550

rotten, i.e., worthless (literally or morally)

καρποὺς11 of 13

“fruit”

G2590

fruit (as plucked), literally or figuratively

καλοὺς12 of 13

“good”

G2570

properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished

ποιεῖν13 of 13

“bring forth”

G4160

to make or do (in a very wide application, more or less direct)

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 7:18 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 7:18 from Treasury of Scripture Knowledge

Galatians 5:171 John 3:9-10

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