Matthew 3:10
Verse
Context
The Mission of John the Baptist
9And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.10The axe lies ready at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
Sermons
Jonathan Edwards
A.W. Tozer
Zac Poonen
C.H. Spurgeon
Richard Owen Roberts
Carter ConlonSummary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And now also--And even already. the axe is laid unto--"lieth at." the root of the trees--as it were ready to strike: an expressive figure of impending judgment, only to be averted in the way next described. therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire--Language so personal and individual as this can scarcely be understood of any national judgment like the approaching destruction of Jerusalem, with the breaking up of the Jewish polity and the extrusion of the chosen people from their peculiar privileges which followed it; though this would serve as the dark shadow, cast before, of a more terrible retribution to come. The "fire," which in another verse is called "unquenchable," can be no other than that future "torment" of the impenitent whose "smoke ascendeth up for ever and ever," and which by the Judge Himself is styled "everlasting punishment" (Mat 25:46). What a strength, too, of just indignation is in that word "cast" or "flung into the fire!" The third Gospel here adds the following important particulars in Luk 3:10-16. Luk 3:10 : And the people--the multitudes. asked him, saying, What shall we do then?--that is, to show the sincerity of our repentance. Luk 3:11 : He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat--provisions, victuals. let him do likewise--This is directed against the reigning avarice and selfishness. (Compare the corresponding precepts of the Sermon on the Mount, Mat 5:40-42). Luk 3:12 : Then came also the publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master--Teacher. what shall we do?--In what special way is the genuineness of our repentance to be manifested? Luk 3:13 : And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you--This is directed against that extortion which made the publicans a byword. (See on Mat 5:46; Luk 15:1). Luk 3:14 : And the soldiers--rather, "And soldiers"--the word means "soldiers on active duty." likewise demanded--asked. of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man--Intimidate. The word signifies to "shake thoroughly," and refers probably to the extorting of money or other property. neither accuse any falsely--by acting as informers vexatiously on frivolous or false pretexts. and be content with your wages--or "rations." We may take this, say WEBSTER and WILKINSON, as a warning against mutiny, which the officers attempted to suppress by largesses and donations. And thus the "fruits" which would evidence their repentance were just resistance to the reigning sins--particularly of the class to which the penitent belonged--and the manifestation of an opposite spirit. Luk 3:15 : And as the people were in expectation--in a state of excitement, looking for something new and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not--rather, "whether he himself might be the Christ." The structure of this clause implies that they could hardly think it, but yet could not help asking themselves whether it might not be; showing both how successful he had been in awakening the expectation of Messiah's immediate appearing, and the high estimation and even reverence, which his own character commanded. Luk 3:16 : John answered--either to that deputation from Jerusalem, of which we read in Joh 1:19, &c., or on some other occasion, to remove impressions derogatory to his blessed Master, which he knew to be taking hold of the popular mind. saying unto them all--in solemn protestation. (We now return to the first Gospel.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
And now also the axe is laid,.... These words may be rendered, "for now also", and contain in them a reason why they might expect future wrath; why they should bring forth good fruit; and why they should not trust to nor plead their descent from Abraham, because "the axe is now laid": by which is meant, not the Gospel which now began to be preached by John; though this was like an axe laid to the root of, and which cut down, their pride and vanity, their self-confidence and glorying in their righteousness, holiness, carnal wisdom, and fleshly privileges: but rather; the axe of God's judgment and vengeance is here designed, which, because of the certainty and near approach of it, is said to be "now laid"; and that not to some of the branches only, to lop them off, to take away from the Jews some particular privileges, but "to the root" of all their privileges, civil and ecclesiastical; even the covenant which God had made with that people as a nation, who was now about to write "Lo Ammi" upon them; so that henceforward they would have nothing to expect from their being the seed of Abraham, Israelites, or circumcised persons. The time was just at hand, when the Lord would take his "staff Beauty and cut it asunder, that he might break the covenant he had made with all the people", Zac 11:10 in a short time their civil polity and church state would be both at an end. The Romans, who were already among them and over them, would very quickly come upon them, and cut them off root and branch; and utterly destroy their temple, city, and nation: and this ruin and destruction was levelled not at a single tree, a single person, or family only, as Jesse's, or any others, but at the root of the trees: of all the trees of the whole body of the people; for the covenant which was made with them all being broke, and which was their hedge and fence, they were all exposed to the wild boar of the forest. Therefore every tree, every individual person, though one of Abraham's children, and made never such a fair show in the flesh, which bringeth not forth good fruit; does not perform good works from a right principle, to a right end, such as are meet for repentance; particularly, does not believe in the Messiah now ready to be revealed, which is the main and principal work; and does not continue so doing, and thus believing, is hewn down and cast into the fire. Temporal ruin and destruction shall come upon him; he shall not escape divine vengeance here, and shall be cast into everlasting burnings hereafter; which is quite contrary to a notion of theirs, that "by the merits of Abraham", the Israelites shall be delivered from the fire of hell (d). (d) Zohar in Exod. fol. 34. 4.
Matthew 3:10
The Mission of John the Baptist
9And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.10The axe lies ready at the root of the trees, and every tree that does not produce good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God (Alternate)
By Jonathan Edwards5.9K51:46Audio BooksGEN 19:17DEU 32:34ISA 47:10MAT 3:10In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the incomprehensible power of God's anger and the eternal misery that awaits those who have not been born again. The preacher warns that even those who appear moral, strict, sober, and religious may still be subject to this great wrath. The congregation is urged to consider their own state and not to be deceived by their current ease or self-assurance. The preacher also addresses young people and children, urging them not to neglect the opportunity to turn to Christ and avoid the wrath of God. The sermon draws on biblical references, such as Isaiah 33, to emphasize the magnitude of God's power and the urgency of repentance.
Self-Sufficiency of God
By A.W. Tozer3.2K38:18God's CharacterPSA 30:5PSA 84:11PRO 3:5MAT 3:10MAT 6:33JHN 5:26In this sermon, Dr. Tazer focuses on the profound observation that the Father has life in himself, as stated in John's Gospel, Chapter 5, Verse 26. He emphasizes that Jesus condensed this profound truth into six simple words of one and two syllables. Dr. Tazer explains that God is self-sufficient and does not depend on anyone or anything for life. He dismisses the idea that God needs human assistance or validation, and encourages the congregation to trust in God's power and not be swayed by external influences or fear tactics.
From Babylon to Jerusalem - (Daniel) ch.4:1-5:31
By Zac Poonen3.0K1:00:59From Babylon To JerusalemDAN 4:10DAN 4:27MIC 6:8MAT 3:10LUK 13:6In this sermon, the preacher focuses on the story of Nebuchadnezzar and his encounter with God. Nebuchadnezzar had a vision of a great tree that provided shade and food for all living creatures. However, an angelic watcher appeared and commanded the tree to be cut down, leaving only a stump. This was a punishment for Nebuchadnezzar's pride and arrogance. The purpose of this punishment was to teach Nebuchadnezzar and all people that God is the ruler over all and can appoint even the lowliest of men to positions of power.
A "Very Good" Marriage
By Zac Poonen2.4K1:03:49GEN 1:1EXO 20:13MAT 3:10MAT 6:33MAT 22:37EPH 5:22REV 21:1In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of acknowledging our needs and having faith in God's ability to meet them. He references the creation story in Genesis, highlighting how God examined and declared each day's work as good. The speaker encourages listeners to have faith in God's power to solve every problem, including the challenges of the world we live in. He also urges believers to aim for a higher standard in their marriages and lives, rather than settling for mediocrity.
John and Herod
By C.H. Spurgeon1.8K34:36MAT 3:10MAT 14:1JHN 1:29In this sermon, the preacher discusses the flaws in the character of Herod, focusing on his failure to fully accept and follow the word of God. The preacher emphasizes the importance of having a sensitive conscience that responds to the preaching of the word. He highlights how Herod selectively chose which parts of the word of God to accept and which to ignore, particularly when it came to addressing sins and vices. The preacher concludes by sharing a personal anecdote about a young man who initially seemed virtuous but ultimately fell into dishonor, emphasizing the need for a genuine commitment to God.
Change Our Heart's - Part 6
By Richard Owen Roberts1.7K05:16MAT 3:10MAT 7:19LUK 13:6JHN 15:2GAL 5:22In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of bearing fruit as a Christian and bringing glory to God. He warns against being like Judas, who heard and saw everything but never bore any fruit. The speaker encourages believers to embrace the pruning process, even though it may be painful, as it is necessary for producing abundant fruit. He concludes by urging listeners to take the message seriously and make a commitment to never be a fruitless vine.
Can God Speak to You?
By Carter Conlon1.7K50:25Voice Of GodMAT 3:10LUK 3:11LUK 7:24LUK 7:27ACT 17:30EPH 4:28In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of repentance and turning to God. He encourages listeners to not be governed by the negative influences of the world, such as news and violence. The preacher highlights the need to have a change of heart and to live a life of kindness and generosity towards others. He references biblical passages that instruct believers to be content with what they have, to work with their own hands, and to give to those in need. The sermon concludes with the reminder that Jesus himself demonstrated kindness and generosity by giving his life for humanity.
Christ Is All - in Scripture
By Bill McLeod1.6K46:28Fulness Of ChristPSA 2:10PSA 40:7PSA 41:9MAT 1:21MAT 28:19MRK 14:62COL 3:11TIT 3:7PHM 1:1In this sermon, the speaker begins by referencing Mark 16 and Luke 1 from the Bible. He highlights how Jesus reproached his disciples for their lack of belief in his resurrection and then commanded them to preach the gospel to the world. The speaker also mentions that some versions of the Bible omit miracles and end with Jesus' death on the cross, portraying him as a good man and advocate of peace. However, the speaker emphasizes that the Bible is truly all about Jesus and explores the significance of his ministry and his role as the Son of God.
Where Is the Wrath of God, What the Prosperity Preachers Will Not Mention by Michael Brown
By Micheal L. Brown1.3K10:12MAT 3:10MAT 5:22MAT 10:28HEB 12:29REV 20:11
This sermon delves into the often overlooked topic of the wrath of God, emphasizing its importance as a fundamental truth from the Old Testament to the New Testament. It highlights the warnings given by John the Baptist and Jesus about the consequences of sin and the reality of hell, urging believers to take seriously the concept of judgment and God's righteous anger. The speaker challenges the church to preach the full message of God's love and wrath, emphasizing the need for reverence, fear of God, and a deeper understanding of the significance of the cross.
Sinners in the Hands of an Angry God (Compilation)
By Compilations1.2K12:58PRO 29:1ISA 55:6EZK 18:32MAT 3:10LUK 13:32CO 6:2HEB 10:312PE 3:9This sermon emphasizes the imminent danger unconverted individuals face, likening their situation to walking over the pit of hell on a fragile covering, with unseen arrows of death ready to strike. It warns of the wrath of God being held back but steadily increasing, highlighting the eternal consequences of rejecting salvation and the unimaginable suffering awaiting those who remain unrepentant. The urgency to seek salvation through Christ is stressed, urging listeners to heed the call of God's mercy before it's too late.
Christ Is All in All
By Curtis Hutson1.0K49:28ChristGEN 1:1PSA 23:1ISA 53:5MAT 3:10MAT 28:19LUK 24:27JHN 5:39In this sermon, the preacher's main goal is to exalt Christ and help the congregation leave with a deeper love for Him. He shares a story about an old man who, despite having lost everything, realizes that all he needs is Jesus. The preacher emphasizes that Jesus is not only necessary but also enough for our lives. He also mentions a story about a man who spent his fortune seeking peace but only found it when he discovered Jesus. The sermon highlights the importance of trusting in Jesus as our Savior and recognizing His sacrifice on the cross.
(Luke) 11 - Baptism of Christ
By Ed Miller87448:01ISA 40:3MAT 3:10LUK 3:1In this sermon, the speaker focuses on the corrupt state of both the political society and religious leadership during the time of John the Baptist. The multitudes, tax gatherers, and soldiers all approached John with the same question: "What shall we do?" John preached the law and condemned their actions, warning them of impending judgment. He emphasized the need for repentance and urged them to stop their selfishness, extortion, and oppression. However, John acknowledged that he had no power to change their hearts. The sermon also briefly mentions the baptism of Jesus and concludes with a genealogy tracing the lineage of Jesus back to Adam.
Why Christ Offends Men - Charles Spurgeon (Read )
By Paul West73201:55EXO 16:8EXO 16:3MAT 3:10MAT 5:29ROM 6:1EPH 5:6HEB 12:14The sermon transcript discusses why Christ offends men and why some people stumble at the idea of following Him. It highlights that Christ's holiness and strictness are too much for those who are unwilling to renounce their sinful pleasures. The sermon emphasizes that Christ requires believers to give up their sinful habits and desires in order to receive Him. It also mentions that without holiness, no one can see the Lord, and human nature often rebels against this requirement. The sermon draws from biblical references such as the story of Moses leading the Israelites out of Egypt and the teachings of Christ.
All That Jesus Taught Bible Study - Part 28
By Zac Poonen60225:34MAT 3:10MAT 7:13MAT 7:15MAT 7:19GAL 5:24
This sermon delves into the importance of taking the Sermon on the Mount seriously, emphasizing the narrow gate and way that leads to life as taught by Jesus. It warns against false prophets who may appear as sheep but are actually wolves, focusing on the need to discern them by their fruits, particularly humility and love. The message stresses the crucial act of crucifying the self-centered nature inherited from Adam to truly belong to Christ and bear good fruit.
Submission and Godliness
By Zac Poonen48745:05MAT 3:10
This sermon delves into the origins of sin in the universe, tracing it back to pride and rebellion against authority. It emphasizes the importance of humility and submission as key elements in overcoming sin, drawing parallels between the fall of Lucifer and the need for obedience in human relationships. The message highlights the significance of laying the axe to the root of sin, addressing the subtle dangers of pride and the necessity of following God's word even when it goes against societal norms.
Compared View of the First Three Gospels, Etc.
By John Nelson Darby0The GospelsChrist's MinistryMAT 1:1MAT 4:17MAT 5:1MAT 9:35MAT 11:28MAT 28:19MRK 1:14LUK 3:23LUK 4:18John Nelson Darby discusses the distinct characteristics and purposes of the first three Gospels, emphasizing that Mark presents a chronological account of Christ's service, while Matthew focuses on the presentation of Jesus as the Messiah and the implications of His rejection. He notes that Luke, while generally following Mark's order, includes moral teachings that are unique to his Gospel. Darby highlights the importance of understanding the genealogies and the context of Christ's ministry, particularly in relation to Israel's expectations and the establishment of the church. He concludes that the Gospels collectively reveal the nature of Christ's mission and the unfolding of God's plan for humanity.
Evening Thoughts - December
By Octavius Winslow0Spiritual MindednessEternal PerspectiveMAT 3:10EPH 2:4Octavius Winslow reflects on the profound implications of human character and its eternal trajectory, emphasizing that every moment shapes our destiny. He warns of the imminent judgment awaiting the unconverted, urging believers to recognize the urgency of their spiritual state. Winslow highlights the necessity of spiritual-mindedness, which stems from a genuine relationship with Christ, and the importance of love as the driving force behind our actions. He encourages believers to seek a deeper communion with Jesus, acknowledging the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a life dedicated to God, rooted in love and holiness, as the path to true fulfillment and eternal joy.
On the Priesthood - Part 4
By St. John Chrysostom0MAT 3:10John Chrysostom preaches about the challenges and responsibilities faced by bishops in the church, highlighting the need for discernment, patience, and skill in managing various aspects such as overseeing widows, caring for virgins, and handling judicial matters. He emphasizes the importance of avoiding favoritism, maintaining integrity, and upholding justice even in the face of criticism and false accusations. Chrysostom warns against the dangers of appointing unworthy individuals to positions of authority, stressing the detrimental effects it can have on the church and the souls under their care.
Matthew 7:15-20. Christ Warns Against False Prophets.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0JER 23:16MAT 3:10MAT 7:15MAT 7:20LUK 6:43GAL 5:22Favell Lee Mortimer emphasizes the importance of discerning false teachers who lead people astray by preaching an easier path contrary to the narrow way to heaven. Drawing parallels to the false prophets in ancient times, she warns against those who do not teach the necessity of true conversion and living faith, ultimately hindering believers from experiencing the cleansing power of Christ's blood. By highlighting the deceptive nature of false ministers who appear as sheep but are inwardly wolves, Mortimer urges listeners to evaluate these teachers by their fruits, emphasizing that only a transformed heart can produce the genuine fruits of the Spirit.
Matthew 3:7-12. John Warns the Pharisees and Sadducees.
By Favell Lee Mortimer0MAT 3:7MAT 3:10LUK 3:16JHN 14:6GAL 2:16REV 6:16Favell Lee Mortimer preaches about the Pharisees and Sadducees who came to hear John preach in the wilderness, highlighting their self-righteousness and unbelief. He warns against outward religious acts without true repentance and faith in Jesus Christ for salvation. John fearlessly confronts their hypocrisy and warns them of the impending judgment, emphasizing the need to bear good fruit and believe in the Savior. John humbly points to Jesus as the true Savior who cleanses the soul with the Holy Spirit and separates the wheat from the chaff, underscoring the consequences of rejecting Him.
Watch the Branch Wither
By Ray Comfort0MAT 3:10ROM 6:6ROM 8:131CO 6:92CO 5:17GAL 5:24HEB 4:12JAS 1:141JN 1:9Ray Comfort preaches about the importance of addressing the root of sin in individuals rather than focusing solely on specific sinful behaviors like homosexuality or fornication. He emphasizes the need for a deep transformation of the heart through God's Law, leading to a true rebirth in Christ where old sinful nature is destroyed. Comfort highlights that true believers, whether struggling with heterosexual or homosexual temptations, must reckon their old sinful nature as dead and engage in a continuous battle against sin. He urges Christians to use God's Law as a sharp axe to attack the deep roots of sin, rather than just pruning the visible branches of sinful behaviors.
Spiritual Lessons From the Trees
By John Hames0GEN 2:16PSA 1:3ISA 49:16MAT 3:10ACT 20:241CO 15:42John Hames preaches on the valuable lessons we can learn from trees as divine creations, highlighting their instructive nature, dependence on unseen sources, resilience to weather changes, and provision for others. He emphasizes the importance of patience, perseverance, and faith in our Christian journey, drawing parallels between the growth of a tree and the development of believers in Christ. Hames also points out the unity, reliability, and steadfastness that trees exhibit, challenging Christians to emulate these qualities in their faith walk and interactions with others. Furthermore, he connects the changing seasons of a tree to the need for variety and freshness in our spiritual lives, urging preachers and believers to avoid monotony and embrace diversity in their expressions of faith.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
And now also--And even already. the axe is laid unto--"lieth at." the root of the trees--as it were ready to strike: an expressive figure of impending judgment, only to be averted in the way next described. therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire--Language so personal and individual as this can scarcely be understood of any national judgment like the approaching destruction of Jerusalem, with the breaking up of the Jewish polity and the extrusion of the chosen people from their peculiar privileges which followed it; though this would serve as the dark shadow, cast before, of a more terrible retribution to come. The "fire," which in another verse is called "unquenchable," can be no other than that future "torment" of the impenitent whose "smoke ascendeth up for ever and ever," and which by the Judge Himself is styled "everlasting punishment" (Mat 25:46). What a strength, too, of just indignation is in that word "cast" or "flung into the fire!" The third Gospel here adds the following important particulars in Luk 3:10-16. Luk 3:10 : And the people--the multitudes. asked him, saying, What shall we do then?--that is, to show the sincerity of our repentance. Luk 3:11 : He answereth and saith unto them, He that hath two coats, let him impart to him that hath none; and he that hath meat--provisions, victuals. let him do likewise--This is directed against the reigning avarice and selfishness. (Compare the corresponding precepts of the Sermon on the Mount, Mat 5:40-42). Luk 3:12 : Then came also the publicans to be baptized, and said unto him, Master--Teacher. what shall we do?--In what special way is the genuineness of our repentance to be manifested? Luk 3:13 : And he said unto them, Exact no more than that which is appointed you--This is directed against that extortion which made the publicans a byword. (See on Mat 5:46; Luk 15:1). Luk 3:14 : And the soldiers--rather, "And soldiers"--the word means "soldiers on active duty." likewise demanded--asked. of him, saying, And what shall we do? And he said unto them, Do violence to no man--Intimidate. The word signifies to "shake thoroughly," and refers probably to the extorting of money or other property. neither accuse any falsely--by acting as informers vexatiously on frivolous or false pretexts. and be content with your wages--or "rations." We may take this, say WEBSTER and WILKINSON, as a warning against mutiny, which the officers attempted to suppress by largesses and donations. And thus the "fruits" which would evidence their repentance were just resistance to the reigning sins--particularly of the class to which the penitent belonged--and the manifestation of an opposite spirit. Luk 3:15 : And as the people were in expectation--in a state of excitement, looking for something new and all men mused in their hearts of John, whether he were the Christ, or not--rather, "whether he himself might be the Christ." The structure of this clause implies that they could hardly think it, but yet could not help asking themselves whether it might not be; showing both how successful he had been in awakening the expectation of Messiah's immediate appearing, and the high estimation and even reverence, which his own character commanded. Luk 3:16 : John answered--either to that deputation from Jerusalem, of which we read in Joh 1:19, &c., or on some other occasion, to remove impressions derogatory to his blessed Master, which he knew to be taking hold of the popular mind. saying unto them all--in solemn protestation. (We now return to the first Gospel.)
John Gill Bible Commentary
And now also the axe is laid,.... These words may be rendered, "for now also", and contain in them a reason why they might expect future wrath; why they should bring forth good fruit; and why they should not trust to nor plead their descent from Abraham, because "the axe is now laid": by which is meant, not the Gospel which now began to be preached by John; though this was like an axe laid to the root of, and which cut down, their pride and vanity, their self-confidence and glorying in their righteousness, holiness, carnal wisdom, and fleshly privileges: but rather; the axe of God's judgment and vengeance is here designed, which, because of the certainty and near approach of it, is said to be "now laid"; and that not to some of the branches only, to lop them off, to take away from the Jews some particular privileges, but "to the root" of all their privileges, civil and ecclesiastical; even the covenant which God had made with that people as a nation, who was now about to write "Lo Ammi" upon them; so that henceforward they would have nothing to expect from their being the seed of Abraham, Israelites, or circumcised persons. The time was just at hand, when the Lord would take his "staff Beauty and cut it asunder, that he might break the covenant he had made with all the people", Zac 11:10 in a short time their civil polity and church state would be both at an end. The Romans, who were already among them and over them, would very quickly come upon them, and cut them off root and branch; and utterly destroy their temple, city, and nation: and this ruin and destruction was levelled not at a single tree, a single person, or family only, as Jesse's, or any others, but at the root of the trees: of all the trees of the whole body of the people; for the covenant which was made with them all being broke, and which was their hedge and fence, they were all exposed to the wild boar of the forest. Therefore every tree, every individual person, though one of Abraham's children, and made never such a fair show in the flesh, which bringeth not forth good fruit; does not perform good works from a right principle, to a right end, such as are meet for repentance; particularly, does not believe in the Messiah now ready to be revealed, which is the main and principal work; and does not continue so doing, and thus believing, is hewn down and cast into the fire. Temporal ruin and destruction shall come upon him; he shall not escape divine vengeance here, and shall be cast into everlasting burnings hereafter; which is quite contrary to a notion of theirs, that "by the merits of Abraham", the Israelites shall be delivered from the fire of hell (d). (d) Zohar in Exod. fol. 34. 4.