Introduction: What’s This Parable Really About?

Many Christians read the parable of the tree and its fruit as a call to examine personal behavior. But in context, Jesus isn’t speaking about the actions of believers—He’s warning about false prophets. The “fruit” is not good works; it’s false teachings and words that reveal a person’s true spiritual condition.

Let’s explore Matthew 12:33–37 and Luke 6:43–45 and see what Jesus was actually teaching.

The Parable: A Tree Is Known by Its Fruit

Matthew 12:33–37 (NIV)

“Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of...”

Luke 6:43–45 (NIV)

“No good tree bears bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. Each tree is recognized by its own fruit... A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in his heart...”

Context: A Warning About False Prophets

In both Matthew and Luke, this parable follows a direct warning from Jesus:

“Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them.” — Matthew 7:15–16

The immediate context is about people who claim spiritual authority but are teaching lies. These are not struggling believers or immature Christians. These are deceivers who appear godly on the outside but deny the truth of God inwardly.

Jesus is teaching that the words of a false teacher—what they speak and what they teach—will eventually reveal their heart and motives.

What Does the “Fruit” Represent?

The "fruit" in this parable isn’t good deeds—it’s speech and teaching. In Matthew 12, Jesus addresses the Pharisees, who had just accused Him of casting out demons by Satan’s power. Their words showed their rejection of the Holy Spirit and hardened unbelief.

“For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.” Jesus is emphasizing that false doctrine comes from a corrupt heart, just like lies, pride, and slander do. The Pharisees’ words were not just wrong—they were blasphemous and revealed their spiritual blindness.

This Is Not a Call to Judge Others by Works

Many wrongly apply this parable to mean, “If someone sins, they must not be saved.” But Jesus wasn’t speaking about personal moral failures—He was talking about religious leaders who were pretending to serve God while actively rejecting His Son.

This is about recognizing teachers who use spiritual language but spread deception. Their “fruit” is false prophecy, manipulation, pride, and gospel distortion.

Why This Matters Today

False prophets are still active today. Some claim visions, sell blessings, preach a false gospel of works or prosperity, or deny essential truths about Jesus. Jesus gives us the standard to discern them: their words and teachings.

“They mouth empty, boastful words and, by appealing to the lustful desires of the flesh, they entice people...” — 2 Peter 2:18

Do not judge by appearance. Test all teachings by Scripture. Examine the message, not just the charisma or influence of the messenger.