Matthew 3:8
Verse
Context
The Mission of John the Baptist
7But when John saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his place of baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?8Produce fruit, then, in keeping with repentance.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.
Sermons






Summary
Commentary
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Bring forth therefore fruits--the true reading clearly is "fruit"; meet for repentance--that is, such fruit as befits a true penitent. John now being gifted with a knowledge of the human heart, like a true minister of righteousness and lover of souls here directs them how to evidence and carry out their repentance, supposing it genuine; and in the following verses warns them of their danger in case it were not.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Bring forth therefore fruits,.... That is, if you are truly penitent, if you have a proper sense of sin, and true repentance for it, do such works as are suitable to it, and will show the genuineness of it; for fruits meet for repentance are the same as "works meet for repentance", Act 26:20 and as a tree is known by its fruit, so repentance is known by good works; these are the fruits and effects of repentance, and which are proofs with men of the sincerity of it. Those which follow upon evangelical repentance are such as are mentioned in Co2 7:11. Now let it be observed, that John insisted upon repentance, and a good conversation, attesting the truth of it as necessary prerequisites to the ordinance of baptism; and so Peter first urged repentance; and then proposed baptism, Act 2:38 from whence one should think it may be rationally and strongly concluded, that none but truly repenting sinners, and such who have given proofs that they are so, are to be admitted to this ordinance.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:8 Prove . . . that you have . . . turned to God (literally make fruit that accords with repentance): John calls for action and true ethical change; mere lip service will not do (see Luke 3:10-14; cp. Matt 5:19-20, 46; 7:21; 23:3).
Matthew 3:8
The Mission of John the Baptist
7But when John saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming to his place of baptism, he said to them, “You brood of vipers, who warned you to flee from the coming wrath?8Produce fruit, then, in keeping with repentance.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.
- Scripture
- Sermons
- Commentary
(John the Baptist Comes to Town) - Part 2 Calling Men to Come Clean With God
By Rolfe Barnard3.6K25:19John The BaptistISA 40:3MAT 3:1MAT 3:8MAT 3:10MAT 5:6In this sermon, the preacher highlights the moral decay and violence that is prevalent in society, not just in New York City but throughout America. He emphasizes the need for true repentance and a complete surrender to God. The preacher draws a parallel between catching monkeys and the need for humans to let go of their sinful ways. He then introduces the topic of John the Baptist and encourages listeners to turn to the book of Matthew to read about his role as a voice of repentance. The sermon concludes with an offer to receive a book containing the messages on repentance.
A Lost Opportunity
By J. Glyn Owen2.1K42:59Bearing FruitMAT 3:8MAT 7:16LUK 12:48LUK 13:6JHN 15:16ACT 2:1EPH 5:16In this sermon, the speaker reflects on a parable about a barren fig tree and its implications for our lives. The parable emphasizes the importance of producing fruit and the consequences of not doing so. The vine dresser pleads for one more chance for the tree, showing compassion despite the tree's lack of productivity. The speaker applies this parable to our own lives, urging us to examine our faith, repentance, and dedication to God. He reminds us that God expects us to produce fruit and calls us to redeem the time and fulfill our purpose in life.
Counterfeit Conversion (5 of 6)
By Winkie Pratney1.8K54:16MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 2:38ROM 1:16EPH 2:8JAS 2:17In this sermon, the preacher discusses the importance of not allowing worldly desires and material possessions to choke out the word of God in our lives. He emphasizes the need for Christians to remain fruitful and not lose their first love for God. The preacher mentions that many Christians are not as effective for God as they should be, comparing them to the Navy after Pearl Harbor. He then goes on to explain the biblical signs of these "weeds" that can hinder our spiritual growth and offers insights on how to overcome them.
Regeneration and God's Glory
By Leonard Ravenhill1.6K03:19EZK 36:26JOL 2:12MAT 3:8LUK 15:7JHN 3:3ROM 2:42CO 5:17JAS 4:8REV 3:19This sermon emphasizes the urgent need for repentance and a genuine transformation of heart through the power of the Holy Spirit. It challenges the complacency and lack of true spiritual rebirth in many professing Christians, highlighting the necessity of experiencing the glory of God and being truly born again.
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.
013 Trees Without Fruit
By David Servant1.0K07:41MAT 3:8This sermon delves into the impactful ministry of John the Baptist, emphasizing his urgent message of repentance and the impending judgment for those who do not bear good fruit. It highlights the importance of genuine repentance and the correlation between faith, deeds, and salvation, as well as the baptism of the Holy Spirit and fire. The sermon draws attention to the often overlooked aspects of the gospel that focus on repentance, judgment, and the necessity of producing fruit in alignment with one's faith.
The Legal Limit on Sin
By Richard Owen Roberts1.0K1:04:31PSA 51:10MAT 3:8MAT 9:37MAT 13:30MAT 13:39MAT 24:14GAL 6:72TI 3:5REV 14:15This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, confession of sin, and the danger of accumulating sin in our lives, churches, and nations. It warns about the legal limit on sin, where God's wrath is poured out to the utmost when the measure of sin is full. The speaker urges listeners to be vigilant in repentance, to avoid adding to the measure of sin, and to consider the eternal consequences of sin. The message also highlights the need for revival, prayer, and a deep concern for the spiritual well-being of individuals, churches, and nations.
010 What Happened to John the Baptists Gospel
By David Servant1.0K07:40MAT 3:1MAT 3:8MAT 3:11MAT 4:17LUK 3:3ACT 2:382PE 3:9REV 3:19This sermon delves into the ministry of John the Baptist as a forerunner to Jesus, emphasizing the call to repentance as a crucial step towards preparing for the coming of the kingdom of heaven. The urgency of repentance is highlighted, stressing the need for a heart change that leads to a life change in alignment with God's will. The message underscores the importance of being ready for God's judgment by obeying His commands and seeking His forgiveness through repentance and mercy.
The Marks of True Repentance
By Richard Owen Roberts7101:04:10PSA 51:17PRO 28:13MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 3:19ROM 2:42CO 7:10JAS 4:82PE 3:9REV 3:19This sermon emphasizes the importance of true repentance, highlighting the need for ongoing repentance, repentance of both actions and essence of sin, and distinguishing between self-centered and Christ-centered repentance. It discusses the significance of earnestness, vindication, indignation, fear, longing, zeal, and avenging of wrong as marks of genuine repentance, urging individuals to examine their repentance and ensure it is focused on Christ.
Four R's of the Gospel:repentance
By E.A. Johnston67620:36GospelMAT 3:8MAT 7:19MAT 19:16LUK 5:32LUK 15:7ACT 17:30ROM 6:23In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes the importance of preaching the four arms of the gospel: rune, redemption, repentance, and regeneration. He argues that before sinners can be led to Mount Zion, they must first be brought to Mount Sinai to confront their sins. The preacher emphasizes the need for individuals to submit to the lordship of Jesus Christ and allow Him to rule in their lives. He warns against a superficial confession of faith and emphasizes the importance of living a holy life under God's authority. The sermon concludes with a reminder that the Gospel must be preached in its purity and proper order, and that sinners must repent and bear good fruit to receive salvation.
Religious People, Stiff Necked and Angry
By Shane Idleman5691:00:25MAT 3:8MAT 23:27MRK 8:34ACT 2:38ACT 7:441CO 1:18GAL 5:22EPH 5:18JAS 4:7JAS 4:10This sermon addresses the issue of religious people being stiff-necked and angry, emphasizing the difference between religion and relationship with God. It highlights the need to surrender to God, repent of sin, and embrace a personal relationship with Jesus Christ. The importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, humility, and the power of the cross is emphasized to overcome anger and religious legalism.
Joy 1250 Am Interview
By K.P. Yohannan49524:36InterviewMAT 3:8MAT 28:19MRK 16:15ACT 4:12ACT 17:16ACT 26:18In this sermon, the speaker emphasizes the importance of reaching out to the poor and needy as a demonstration of faith. He highlights the need to provide education, food, and clothing to children and families living in slums, particularly in Bombay, India. The speaker draws parallels to the preaching of John the Baptist, who called for repentance and the demonstration of repentance through caring for the poor. He also discusses the role of national pastors and missionaries in delivering the Gospel more efficiently and effectively, citing examples from mission history. Overall, the sermon emphasizes the love of God for all people and the need to bring hope and faith to those who are suffering.
Mark - Jesus' Next of Kin
By J. Glyn Owen42046:41JesusMAT 3:8MAT 6:33MRK 3:31JHN 14:27ROM 8:16GAL 3:29PHP 4:7In this sermon, the preacher emphasizes that being physically related to Jesus does not guarantee spiritual kinship with him. He uses the example of Mary and Jesus' brothers arriving to see him but not immediately approaching him. The preacher highlights the importance of personal faith in Christ and being born again of the Spirit of God. He also emphasizes that Jesus' relationship with his true followers is as deep and intimate as any human relationship, using the examples of mother and child and brother and brother. The sermon encourages listeners to examine their own relationship with God and place their faith solely in Jesus.
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.
(A Good Foundation) 1. Repentance
By Zac Poonen0True FaithRepentancePRO 9:10EZK 36:31MAT 3:8MRK 1:15LUK 19:1LUK 24:47JHN 10:1ACT 20:212CO 7:10JAS 4:7Zac Poonen emphasizes the critical role of genuine repentance as the foundation for entering God's kingdom, highlighting that many believers today lack the depth of faith due to insufficient repentance. He explains that true repentance involves a complete turning away from sin and idols, and it must be accompanied by a willingness to make restitution for wrongs done. Poonen warns against false repentance, using biblical examples to illustrate the difference between mere regret and true transformation. He encourages believers to forgive others and to renounce any ties with evil, asserting that a life of continual repentance is essential for spiritual growth. Ultimately, he stresses that without a solid foundation of repentance and faith, one's Christian life will be unstable.
Matthew 3:8
By Chuck Smith0RepentanceTransformationPSA 51:17ISA 59:1JER 14:12MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 2:38ROM 2:42CO 7:10JAS 4:81JN 1:9Chuck Smith emphasizes the critical nature of true repentance in the Christian faith, explaining that it involves a genuine change of mind and heart, leading to a complete forsaking of sin. He distinguishes between mere sorrow for actions and true repentance, which is evidenced by a transformed life and the bearing of good fruit. Smith highlights that repentance is the first step toward salvation and restoration, and he warns against the dangers of phony repentance that lacks real change. He also discusses the importance of understanding the consequences of sin and the necessity of God's love and forgiveness in the process of true repentance.
Horrid Hypocrisy, Damnable Folly, and Astonishing Impudency!
By Thomas Brooks0RepentanceForgivenessPSA 51:10PRO 28:13EZK 18:30MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 3:19ROM 6:12CO 7:10JAS 4:71JN 1:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the critical nature of true repentance in his sermon 'Horrid Hypocrisy, Damnable Folly, and Astonishing Impudency!' He argues that one cannot genuinely seek forgiveness for sins while simultaneously clinging to them, as this reflects a deep hypocrisy and folly. Brooks illustrates that true penitence requires a willingness to forsake all known sins, as the desire for pardon must be matched by the intent to turn away from wrongdoing. He warns that those who ask for forgiveness while planning to continue in sin will find no mercy, equating their situation to that of a traitor seeking pardon while remaining treasonous. Ultimately, he concludes that true forgiveness is reserved for those who earnestly repent and are committed to abandoning their sins.
Spiritual Vomit
By Thomas Brooks0RepentanceConfessionPSA 51:10PRO 28:13EZK 18:30MAT 3:8LUK 13:3ACT 3:19ROM 6:12CO 7:10JAS 4:71JN 1:9Thomas Brooks emphasizes the necessity of true penitential confession, which must be accompanied by a genuine desire to reform and forsake sin. He asserts that mere confession without the intention to abandon sin is futile, as God requires both elements for forgiveness. Brooks likens confession to a spiritual vomit, where one must earnestly wish to rid themselves of the burden of sin, just as a sick person desires relief from their discomfort. He stresses that true confession involves a heartfelt commitment to not repeat the sins confessed, highlighting the importance of both confession and reformation in the believer's life.
A Destructive Ministry Also Is Necessary
By J. Edwin Orr0RepentanceDestructive Ministry2CH 7:14PSA 51:10ISA 57:15JER 1:10EZK 18:30MAT 3:8GAL 6:72TI 4:2JAS 4:81JN 1:9J. Edwin Orr emphasizes the necessity of a destructive ministry in his sermon, drawing from Jeremiah 1:10, where God commissions Jeremiah to root out and destroy before building and planting. He highlights that while some preachers excel in pastoral care, others are called to confront sin and bring about revival, which often requires drastic measures. Orr illustrates that just as a gardener must clear weeds before planting, so too must ministers address sin and disobedience in the church to prepare hearts for God's truth. He argues that a message of rebuke is essential for spiritual health, as many believers today lack a sense of sin and need to be called to repentance before they can fully embrace the gospel. Ultimately, Orr calls for a faithful ministry that prioritizes heart-searching and repentance to pave the way for revival.
Repentance, True and False
By Paris Reidhead0GEN 12:1GEN 27:6GEN 32:24AMO 5:4MAT 3:82CO 7:101TH 1:3JAS 4:81JN 1:9Paris Reidhead preaches on the contrast between true and false repentance as illustrated in the lives of Abraham and Jacob. Abraham's genuine repentance is shown through his immediate obedience and complete surrender to God, leaving behind idols and worldly attachments. On the other hand, Jacob's false repentance is depicted by his self-interest, fear-driven actions, and reluctance to fully submit to God. Reidhead emphasizes the importance of turning to God from idols, serving the living God, and waiting on His promises, as seen in the lives of these two biblical figures.
Behold the Lamb of God
By G.W. North0BaptismNew CovenantMAT 3:8MAT 28:19JHN 1:29ACT 1:5ACT 2:38ROM 6:41CO 12:13GAL 3:27EPH 4:5TIT 3:5G.W. North emphasizes the significance of John's baptism as a divine announcement of the end of the Mosaic law regarding personal sacrifice for sin, highlighting Jesus as the ultimate sacrifice, the 'Lamb of God'. He explains that John called for repentance and offered baptism as a means to prepare for the coming of Christ, who would baptize with the Holy Spirit and fire. North asserts that water baptism, instituted by God through John, serves as a symbolic representation of the spiritual baptism that grants eternal life, marking the transition from the old covenant to the new. The sermon underscores the importance of recognizing Jesus' role in fulfilling the law and providing a new way of salvation. Ultimately, it calls believers to embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit.
Day 3, Matthew 3
By David Servant0MAT 3:8MAT 3:11LUK 13:3JHN 1:29ACT 3:192CO 7:10JAS 2:26David Servant preaches on the vital importance of repentance in the gospel message, emphasizing that repentance is the starting point of our relationship with God and the only way to be saved. He highlights how repentance involves turning away from sin and turning to obedience, and how a gospel without repentance is not truly biblical. David stresses the need for people to recognize their sinfulness and God's wrath against sin in order to truly repent and turn to God, just as John the Baptist did in his ministry.
Nationale Inkeer (Dutch)
By Anton Bosch02CH 7:14ISA 55:7MAT 3:8ACT 26:20ROM 9:25HEB 11:13Anton Bosch preaches about the concept of national repentance, emphasizing that repentance is a personal action that requires a change in behavior, not just words. He highlights that repentance is individual and cannot be done on behalf of others, including nations. The sermon underscores that God deals with individuals, not nations, and that salvation is a personal decision. Bosch challenges the idea of praying for national repentance and encourages focusing on praying for individuals to come to faith in Jesus Christ.
National Repentance
By Anton Bosch02CH 7:14ISA 55:7MAT 3:8ACT 26:20ROM 11:26HEB 11:13Anton Bosch challenges the concept of 'national repentance' by emphasizing that repentance is an action that requires a change in behavior, not just words. He highlights that repentance is personal and cannot be done on behalf of others, including nations, as each individual must take responsibility for their own sins. Bosch clarifies that God deals with individuals, not nations, and that Jesus died for each person personally, not for specific countries. He stresses the importance of praying for individuals to come to repentance and belief in Jesus, rather than using vague prayers for nations.
Concepts of Revival
By Glenn Meldrum02CH 7:14HAB 3:2MAT 3:8ACT 2:41ACT 11:18Glenn Meldrum preaches about the essence of revival as a sovereign, supernatural work of the Holy Spirit, where God reveals His holiness and glory, leading to the transformation of individuals and societies. He delves into the historical account of the Hebrides Awakening in 1949, emphasizing the power of prayer, spiritual hunger, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Meldrum explores the Biblical principles of revival, highlighting the Old Testament revivals and the necessity of revival in our time to combat moral decay and societal issues. He discusses the fruits of revival, showcasing the profound impact on communities, nations, and individuals throughout history.
- Jamieson-Fausset-Brown
- John Gill
- Tyndale
Jamieson-Fausset-Brown Bible Commentary
Bring forth therefore fruits--the true reading clearly is "fruit"; meet for repentance--that is, such fruit as befits a true penitent. John now being gifted with a knowledge of the human heart, like a true minister of righteousness and lover of souls here directs them how to evidence and carry out their repentance, supposing it genuine; and in the following verses warns them of their danger in case it were not.
John Gill Bible Commentary
Bring forth therefore fruits,.... That is, if you are truly penitent, if you have a proper sense of sin, and true repentance for it, do such works as are suitable to it, and will show the genuineness of it; for fruits meet for repentance are the same as "works meet for repentance", Act 26:20 and as a tree is known by its fruit, so repentance is known by good works; these are the fruits and effects of repentance, and which are proofs with men of the sincerity of it. Those which follow upon evangelical repentance are such as are mentioned in Co2 7:11. Now let it be observed, that John insisted upon repentance, and a good conversation, attesting the truth of it as necessary prerequisites to the ordinance of baptism; and so Peter first urged repentance; and then proposed baptism, Act 2:38 from whence one should think it may be rationally and strongly concluded, that none but truly repenting sinners, and such who have given proofs that they are so, are to be admitted to this ordinance.
Tyndale Open Study Notes
3:8 Prove . . . that you have . . . turned to God (literally make fruit that accords with repentance): John calls for action and true ethical change; mere lip service will not do (see Luke 3:10-14; cp. Matt 5:19-20, 46; 7:21; 23:3).