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Matthew 12:34
Verse
Context
Good and Bad Fruit
33Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.34You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.35The good man brings good things out of his good store of treasure, and the evil man brings evil things out of his evil store of treasure.
Sermons







Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
O generation of vipers--(See on Mat 3:7). how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh--a principle obvious enough, yet of deepest significance and vast application. In Luk 6:45 we find it uttered as part of the discourse delivered after the choice of the apostles.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But he answered and said unto them,.... Not to the Pharisees, who were unworthy of an answer from him; having, in such an imperious manner, and with a sole view to tempt him, and after such miracles were wrought by him, required of him a sign from heaven; but to the multitude, the throng of people gathered thick together on this occasion, see Mat 12:45 he turns himself from the Scribes and Pharisees, to the common people, and says to them concerning the former, an evil and adulterous generation; not only in a spiritual sense, being degenerated from the faith, religion, and piety of their ancestors; but literally, which appeared not only in their polygamy, and frequent divorces on trivial occasions, but by criminal conversation with other women; see Joh 8:9 and this, with the Jews themselves, is a character of the generation in which the Messiah comes: for they say (h), "that just when the Messiah comes, or in the age the son of David comes, "impudence shall be increased", corn and wine shall be dear, the government shall be heretics, , "and the synagogue shall become a brothel house".'' Their meaning is, that the chief magistrates should be Sadducees, and those that pretended to religion and holiness would be adulterers, which was now the case. Their writings (i) frequently speak of the increase and abounding of adulteries, under the second temple, and about this time; which obliged Jochanan ben Zaccai and the sanhedrim, to leave off the use of the bitter waters. Seeketh after a sign; this is perfectly Talmudic language, the language of the Jews (k). "The disciples of R. Jose ben Kismai, asked him, when the Son of David came? He replied, I am afraid, lest , "ye should seek of me a sign"; they say unto him, we will not "seek of thee a sign".'' This the Jews sought of Christ, time after time; not content with one, sought another, though such wonderful ones were wrought, which most fully demonstrated him to be the Messiah; and therefore he would not indulge this temper in them; but declared, that there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. Not that no miracles should afterwards be wrought amongst them; for, after this, many wondrous works were done by Christ; but no such signs should be given they desired, not one from heaven; but one particularly should be given them, out of the earth, and should be, not for their conviction, but condemnation; and would seem very much like that which was done to the prophet Jonas, or Jonah; for so is his name in the Hebrew language, the other being the Greek termination of it. (h) Misn. Sota c. 9. sect. 15. T. Bab. Sanhed. fol. 97. 1. (i) Misn. Sota, c. 9. sect. 9. & Maimon. Hilch. Sota, c. 3. sect. 19. (k) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 98. 1. so , "seeketh a sign", Shemot Rabba, Parash. 9. fol. 97. 2.
Matthew 12:34
Good and Bad Fruit
33Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad; for a tree is known by its fruit.34You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For out of the overflow of the heart, the mouth speaks.35The good man brings good things out of his good store of treasure, and the evil man brings evil things out of his evil store of treasure.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Tame Your Tongue
By David Wilkerson7.1K49:33PRO 18:21MAT 7:21MAT 12:341CO 13:1EPH 4:29COL 4:6JAS 3:1In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of taming one's tongue and the dangers of speaking evil. He compares the tongue to a treasure that can bring forth either good or evil. The preacher shares his personal conviction to be cautious with his words and to examine his own heart for any root of jealousy, envy, or covetousness. He also references the book of James, specifically James 3:11, which warns against the inconsistency of a fountain producing both sweet and bitter water. The sermon concludes with a call to control and tame the tongue, recognizing that every word spoken will be accounted for before the Lord.
How to Be Free From Bitterness
By Jim Wilson2.1K39:07BitternessNUM 32:23PRO 28:13MAT 12:34EPH 4:31JAS 3:14JAS 3:161JN 1:9In this sermon, the speaker addresses the issue of bitterness and its negative impact on our lives. He refers to Ephesians 4:31, which instructs believers to get rid of all bitterness. The speaker shares personal examples of bitterness and how it can affect relationships. He also discusses the importance of forgiveness and being kind and compassionate towards others, just as Christ forgave us. The sermon emphasizes the need for repentance, restitution, and continued joy in our Christian walk.
Followers of the Lamb
By Ed Miller1.9K1:17:28Following The LordMAT 8:18MAT 8:22MAT 12:34MRK 4:36LUK 8:22LUK 9:61In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the theme of following the Lord. He uses the story of Jesus and his disciples getting on a boat and encountering a storm as an example. The preacher highlights the importance of truly committing to following Jesus, even in difficult and challenging situations. He also emphasizes the need for reliance on the Holy Spirit in understanding and interpreting the Bible.
The Complete Transformation - Part 2
By Danny Bond56041:05MAT 12:34JHN 13:34JHN 15:12ACT 4:20ACT 9:20ROM 1:16In this sermon, the speaker shares a powerful testimony of a man named Rolla who was on the verge of killing his family. As he paced around with a gun in his hand, he turned on the TV and came across a sermon by Pastor Chuck Smith. The message about God's love and the offer of a new life resonated with Rolla, and he fell to his knees, experiencing a transformation in his heart. The speaker then encourages the audience to have a fervent and fearless faith that can make a difference in the world, citing the example of missionary Jay Hudson Taylor. The sermon emphasizes the importance of sharing the message of Christ and the impact it can have on others.
Vocal Gifts, Use and Abuse of Tongues
By Derek Prince13356:47Holy SpiritVocal GiftsMAT 12:34MRK 16:17JHN 16:13ACT 2:4ACT 10:46ACT 19:6ROM 6:131CO 12:101CO 14:2JAS 3:6Derek Prince discusses the vocal gifts of the Holy Spirit, specifically focusing on tongues, interpretation, and prophecy. He emphasizes that these gifts are supernatural and must be controlled by the believer, unlike the gifts of revelation and power which are solely initiated by God. Prince explains the significance of speaking in tongues as a vital aspect of the baptism in the Holy Spirit, asserting that it is an essential evidence of this experience. He also highlights the importance of understanding the proper use and purpose of these vocal gifts to avoid misuse and confusion within the church. Ultimately, he encourages believers to yield their tongues to the Holy Spirit for effective ministry.
An Evil Heart of Unbelief
By Phil Beach Jr.331:06:11Faith vs. UnbeliefUnbeliefThe Power of WordsNUM 13:30MAT 12:34HEB 3:12Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the critical nature of recognizing and combating an evil heart of unbelief, as warned in Hebrews 3:12. He explains that such unbelief can hinder the move of God in our lives, families, and churches, drawing parallels to the Israelites' failure to trust God in the wilderness. Beach illustrates how an evil heart of unbelief leads to discouragement and despair, affecting not only the individual but also those around them. He encourages believers to remain vigilant and to speak words of faith, aligning their hearts with God's promises to overcome obstacles. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to prayer, the Word of God, and the Holy Spirit to foster a heart of faith.
Friends of the Bridegroom (Pt. 5)
By Michael Koulianos3235:49BridegroomFriendship with GodThe Power of WordsGEN 5:24GEN 6:9EXO 33:11LEV 10:1ISA 6:1MAT 12:34LUK 6:45JHN 15:15Michael Koulianos emphasizes the significance of being a friend of the bridegroom, urging believers to cultivate a deep relationship with Jesus through prayer and the Word. He highlights that true friendship with God is demonstrated through our words and actions, as they reflect the condition of our hearts. Koulianos warns against gossip and negativity, asserting that our speech should be a testament to our intimacy with Christ. He encourages the congregation to seek a genuine encounter with God, which will transform their lives and produce Christ-like fruit. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to holiness and a deeper awareness of God's presence in our daily lives.
Proverbs 4:23
By Chuck Smith0Spiritual RenewalGuarding the HeartPRO 4:23MAT 12:34JHN 7:37Chuck Smith emphasizes the significance of guarding our hearts, as they are the source of our actions and thoughts. He explains that to keep our hearts pure, we must rely on the cross and the Word of God, ensuring that our hearts are filled with the Spirit and His love. Smith also highlights the importance of maintaining peace through prayer and unity in our hearts, warning against the dangers of a divided heart. Ultimately, he stresses that true transformation comes from a change of heart rather than external circumstances, urging listeners to give their hearts to Jesus for renewal.
Most of Hell in Their Souls
By Thomas Brooks0Divine JusticeInner TransformationMAT 12:34GAL 6:7Thomas Brooks emphasizes the concept of divine justice, arguing that those who embody hellish qualities in their speech, hearts, and lives will ultimately face the consequences of having hell within their souls. He warns that the manifestation of wickedness in one's life is a reflection of the inner state, leading to eternal separation from God. Brooks calls for self-examination and repentance to avoid such a fate, urging listeners to seek a transformation of the heart.
The Matter of Conversation.
By J.R. Miller0Communication in the Christian LifeThe Power of WordsPSA 19:14PRO 10:19PRO 15:1PRO 16:24PRO 18:21ECC 3:4MAT 12:34EPH 4:29COL 4:6JAS 1:19J.R. Miller emphasizes the significance of our speech, urging that every word should be gracious and beneficial, as our manner of speaking can greatly influence how our message is received. He highlights the importance of both the manner and matter of conversation, noting that a pure heart is essential for speaking wholesome words. Miller warns against idle talk and encourages believers to use their speech to uplift and inspire others, reflecting Christ's love and grace. He also stresses the role of the home in shaping our speech habits, advocating for a nurturing environment that fosters kind and respectful communication. Ultimately, he calls for a mindful approach to conversation, where even light-hearted exchanges can carry a meaningful message.
No Dirty Dogs Shall Ever Trample Upon That Golden Pavement
By Thomas Brooks0JudgmentHolinessPSA 22:21ISA 11:7ISA 59:5EZK 22:27EZK 29:3MAT 7:6MAT 12:34REV 21:27REV 22:15Thomas Brooks emphasizes the stark contrast between the holiness of heaven and the unholiness of sinful people, using vivid animal imagery to describe the nature of the unholy. He argues that just as various creatures symbolize different sinful behaviors, God has decreed that no unclean beings will enter His holy presence. Brooks asserts that heaven is a place reserved for the holy, and the presence of unholy individuals would be intolerable for the righteous. He concludes that the purity of heaven necessitates the exclusion of all who practice sin, reinforcing the idea that the eternal city is not meant for those with beastly spirits or practices.
Taking God's Word Seriously
By Zac Poonen0The Importance of SpeechTaking God's Word SeriouslyISA 66:2MAT 5:4MAT 12:34MAT 12:36COL 3:19JAS 1:26Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical importance of taking God's Word seriously, warning that many believers underestimate the weight of their words and the accountability they will face. He highlights Jesus' teaching that every careless word will be judged, urging believers to cleanse their speech to reflect their faith genuinely. Poonen points out that a lack of control over one's tongue indicates a dead faith, and he challenges listeners to examine their speech against God's standards. He stresses that true spiritual progress comes from mourning over sin and taking every command of God seriously, which leads to comfort and victory through the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, he calls for a deep reverence for God's Word as the foundation for a victorious Christian life.
These Are the Sons of Israel.
By F.B. Meyer0Divine JudgmentCharacterPSA 139:23PRO 4:23ECC 12:14JER 17:9MAT 12:34ROM 14:122CO 5:10GAL 6:7JAS 1:221JN 1:9F.B. Meyer emphasizes the irrevocable nature of God's judgment on human lives, as illustrated by the lives of Er and Achan, whose sins defined their legacies. He reflects on the complexity of human character, suggesting that while individuals may have moments of virtue, it is often their ultimate actions that are recorded in Scripture. Meyer urges believers to live with reverent fear and vigilance, recognizing that our words and deeds can encapsulate our true character. He warns that the heart is deceitful and must be diligently guarded, as it is the source of our actions. Ultimately, he calls for a perfect heart before God, acknowledging both forgiveness and the lasting impact of our choices.
Heart Preparation Necessary
By E.M. Bounds0Heart PreparationThe Power of Prayer1SA 16:7PSA 51:10PRO 4:23MAT 12:34LUK 6:45ROM 10:10EPH 3:16COL 3:162TI 2:15JAS 4:8E.M. Bounds emphasizes the necessity of heart preparation for effective preaching, arguing that a sermon infused with intellect alone lacks the power to reach the hearts of listeners. He highlights the importance of prayer in transforming the preacher's heart, asserting that true preaching comes from a heart that has been cultivated through prayer and holiness. Bounds critiques the overemphasis on sermon mechanics at the expense of spiritual depth, warning that a prepared heart is far more crucial than a polished sermon. He calls for preachers to prioritize their spiritual condition, as the effectiveness of their message hinges on the purity and depth of their hearts. Ultimately, Bounds asserts that the preacher's heart is the fountain from which the power of the gospel flows.
Welcomed to the Father's Throne
By Mike Bickle0PSA 19:14PSA 119:11PRO 18:21MAT 12:34JHN 8:32ROM 8:1ROM 10:10HEB 4:16HEB 10:14Mike Bickle emphasizes that through Jesus' one offering on the cross, believers have been perfected forever in their legal position before God, even though they are still being sanctified in their daily lives. Understanding and feeding on the truth of being legally sanctified by God's acceptance and love sets believers free from shame and condemnation. God desires believers to have confidence in approaching Him based on Jesus' finished work, not on their own performance or past mistakes. The transformation from knowing the truth to living it out happens as believers speak scriptural truths in their prayers and worship, allowing the Word to deeply impact their hearts.
Watch Ye, Stand Fast in the Faith
By Paris Reidhead0MAT 12:341CO 15:101CO 16:13EPH 6:10HEB 12:1Paris Reidhead preaches on the importance of being vigilant, standing firm in faith, and conducting oneself with love. He emphasizes the need to watch over our hearts, thoughts, affections, and motives, ensuring they align with God's will. Reidhead urges believers to be strong in the Lord, resisting unbelief, heresy, and worldly influences. He highlights the significance of being mature in Christ, steadfast in the truth, and demonstrating love in all actions.
Seek to Be a Vessel, Sanctified and Useful for God
By Zac Poonen0MAL 3:17MAT 12:342TI 2:202TI 2:221JN 1:7Zac Poonen emphasizes the importance of being a holy vessel for God, highlighting the dual aspect of cleansing in the New Testament: God's cleansing of our sins through Jesus' blood and our responsibility to cleanse ourselves from wrong habits and behaviors. Poonen urges believers to daily cleanse themselves, seeking to be vessels sanctified and useful to God, focusing on spiritual value over mere usefulness in God's work. He warns against youthful lusts and encourages pursuing righteousness and fellowship with those who seek purity to avoid sin and grow in holiness.
What to Speak When You Suffer
By R. Stanley0JOB 1:21JOB 2:10JOB 6:24JOB 7:17JOB 9:10JOB 13:15JOB 19:25JOB 42:7MAT 12:34ROM 8:18JAS 1:19R. Stanley preaches on the importance of being slow to speak, emphasizing that patience in words is the crown of a perfect life. He highlights how our troubles often stem from careless or harsh words, which can damage relationships and disturb our fellowship with God. Drawing from the story of Job, he encourages believers to make confessions during times of suffering, such as praising God in all situations, accepting whatever God allows, being open to correction, acknowledging unworthiness of God's favor, trusting God in darkness, serving a God worth suffering for, and looking forward to future glory.
Jesus Is Accused of Working for the Devil Matthew 12:22-37
By David Servant0MAT 12:34David Servant preaches about Jesus exposing the wickedness of the Pharisees, who accused Him of casting out demons by the power of Satan. Jesus clarified that He used the power of the Holy Spirit to destroy the works of the devil and free people from captivity. He warned against the unforgivable sin of blasphemy against the Holy Spirit, which hardens the heart beyond salvation. Jesus emphasized the importance of words reflecting the condition of one's heart, indicating true belief in Him.
The Gospel of Self - 2
By Anton Bosch0MAT 12:34Anton Bosch preaches about the dangers of modern 'Christianity' that revolves around self, contrasting it with the true Gospel of Jesus Christ that centers on Him. He highlights how the false gospel of self leads to death, while the true Gospel leads to life. The sermon delves into how these two gospels are manifested in what individuals think about, talk about, and even in their worship practices, emphasizing the importance of focusing on Christ rather than self.
Matthew 12:33-37. Jesus Warns Against Idle Words.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0PSA 51:10PRO 18:21MAT 12:34MAT 15:18JHN 3:3Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the severe terms in which Jesus rebuked sinners, highlighting how he called the Pharisees 'a generation of vipers,' revealing their true nature as children of Satan. Mortimer emphasizes that all humans have wicked hearts that produce evil fruit, with the tongue being the outlet of the abominations of the heart. She stresses the importance of being born again to speak words acceptable to God, as our words will be evidence of our state before Him on the last day.
Taking God’s Word Seriously
By Zac Poonen0ISA 66:2MAT 5:4MAT 12:34MAT 12:36COL 3:19JAS 1:26Zac Poonen preaches about the importance of taking God's Word seriously, emphasizing the accountability we have for every word we speak and the need to cleanse our speech from backbiting, gossiping, and anger. He highlights that our words reveal the condition of our hearts and that failing to control our tongue makes our religion worthless. Poonen urges believers to take all of God's commands seriously, including those regarding bitterness towards others, and to mourn over their sins, finding strength in the Holy Spirit for a victorious life.
Tongues
By Ingimar De Ridder0PRO 17:20MAT 12:341CO 10:13EPH 4:29JAS 3:6Ingimar De Ridder preaches about the destructive power of the tongue within the church, emphasizing the need to guard against gossip, lies, and evil speaking that can lead to division and ruin. He warns about the range of influence the tongue has, comparing it to a pebble causing ripples in a pond, and shares examples of how innocent words can have evil intentions. De Ridder highlights the importance of preventing 'religious forest fires' caused by tongues on fire through avoiding gossip, complaining, and flattery, and encourages believers to keep their mouths closed if they cannot tame their tongues.
Thoughts on Baptism
By John Piper0MAT 12:34MAT 28:19ACT 16:31ROM 6:3GAL 3:26EPH 2:8John Piper emphasizes that the New Testament teaches salvation by faith, citing verses like Acts 16:31, John 3:16, Ephesians 2:8, and Galatians 3:26. He explains that faith involves the heart, leading to a decision to accept Christ as Lord and Savior. Piper highlights the importance of confession with the mouth as an overflow of faith, referencing Romans 10:9 and Matthew 12:34. Additionally, he discusses the significance of baptism as an expression of faith and acceptance of Christ's Lordship, connecting it to the believer's death to sin and new life in Christ.
In My Flesh Shall I See God
By C.H. Spurgeon0PSA 5:9PRO 10:31PRO 25:15MAT 12:34MAT 23:27The preacher delves into the significance of the Greek word 'taphos,' often used in the New Testament to refer to literal burial places but also figuratively by Paul to describe destructive speech that brings death to others. Jesus likened the religious leaders to whitewashed tombs, beautiful on the outside but full of uncleanness within. The sermon emphasizes how our words reveal the condition of our hearts, with references to Proverbs highlighting the contrast between righteous and wicked speech. The power of the tongue is explored through historical examples and the impact of words on individuals and nations.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
O generation of vipers--(See on Mat 3:7). how can ye, being evil, speak good things? for out of the abundance of the heart the mouth speaketh--a principle obvious enough, yet of deepest significance and vast application. In Luk 6:45 we find it uttered as part of the discourse delivered after the choice of the apostles.
John Gill Bible Commentary
But he answered and said unto them,.... Not to the Pharisees, who were unworthy of an answer from him; having, in such an imperious manner, and with a sole view to tempt him, and after such miracles were wrought by him, required of him a sign from heaven; but to the multitude, the throng of people gathered thick together on this occasion, see Mat 12:45 he turns himself from the Scribes and Pharisees, to the common people, and says to them concerning the former, an evil and adulterous generation; not only in a spiritual sense, being degenerated from the faith, religion, and piety of their ancestors; but literally, which appeared not only in their polygamy, and frequent divorces on trivial occasions, but by criminal conversation with other women; see Joh 8:9 and this, with the Jews themselves, is a character of the generation in which the Messiah comes: for they say (h), "that just when the Messiah comes, or in the age the son of David comes, "impudence shall be increased", corn and wine shall be dear, the government shall be heretics, , "and the synagogue shall become a brothel house".'' Their meaning is, that the chief magistrates should be Sadducees, and those that pretended to religion and holiness would be adulterers, which was now the case. Their writings (i) frequently speak of the increase and abounding of adulteries, under the second temple, and about this time; which obliged Jochanan ben Zaccai and the sanhedrim, to leave off the use of the bitter waters. Seeketh after a sign; this is perfectly Talmudic language, the language of the Jews (k). "The disciples of R. Jose ben Kismai, asked him, when the Son of David came? He replied, I am afraid, lest , "ye should seek of me a sign"; they say unto him, we will not "seek of thee a sign".'' This the Jews sought of Christ, time after time; not content with one, sought another, though such wonderful ones were wrought, which most fully demonstrated him to be the Messiah; and therefore he would not indulge this temper in them; but declared, that there shall no sign be given to it, but the sign of the prophet Jonas. Not that no miracles should afterwards be wrought amongst them; for, after this, many wondrous works were done by Christ; but no such signs should be given they desired, not one from heaven; but one particularly should be given them, out of the earth, and should be, not for their conviction, but condemnation; and would seem very much like that which was done to the prophet Jonas, or Jonah; for so is his name in the Hebrew language, the other being the Greek termination of it. (h) Misn. Sota c. 9. sect. 15. T. Bab. Sanhed. fol. 97. 1. (i) Misn. Sota, c. 9. sect. 9. & Maimon. Hilch. Sota, c. 3. sect. 19. (k) T. Bab. Sanhedrim, fol. 98. 1. so , "seeketh a sign", Shemot Rabba, Parash. 9. fol. 97. 2.