Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them.

MATTHEW 7:20KJV
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Matthew 7:20 (KJV)

What does Matthew 7:20 mean?

Matthew 7:20 says that people can be recognized by the results of their actions, just as a tree is known by the kind of fruit it produces. The verse teaches that outward behavior and choices reveal a person’s true character.

In this verse, Jesus is speaking to a crowd during the Sermon on the Mount, warning them about false prophets. He uses the image of fruit to help listeners understand that a person’s deeds are the real evidence of who they are, not just their words or appearance. This statement sums up his teaching about discernment and judging wisely.

The Greek behind Matthew 7:20

  • καρπῶν (karpōn, “fruits”): This word means the results or outcomes of someone’s life, not just literal fruit. In this context, it refers to actions, habits, and the visible impact someone has.
  • ἐπιγνώσεσθε (epignōsesthe, “ye shall know”): This word means to recognize fully or to come to a clear understanding. It suggests a deep, unmistakable recognition based on evidence, not just a surface impression.

Why Matthew 7:20 matters

  • Matthew 7:20 helps clear up the idea that appearances or words alone are enough to judge someone’s character; it insists that actions are the real test.
  • This verse ties together Jesus’ earlier warnings about false prophets, showing that careful observation over time is needed to see what someone is truly like.
  • The verse encourages listeners to use discernment and not be easily misled by outward shows of piety or authority.

Where else these words appear

“know” Greek G1921 · used in 38 verses

  • Matthew 7:16 Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?
  • Luke 23:7 And as soon as he knew that he belonged unto Herod's jurisdiction, he sent him to Herod, who himself also was at Jerusalem at that time.
  • Acts 27:39 And when it was day, they knew not the land: but they discovered a certain creek with a shore, into the which they were minded, if it were possible, to thrust in the ship.

“Wherefore” Greek G686 · used in 51 verses

  • Matthew 12:28 But if I cast out devils by the Spirit of God, then the kingdom of God is come unto you.
  • Acts 11:18 When they heard these things, they held their peace, and glorified God, saying, Then hath God also to the Gentiles granted repentance unto life.
  • 1 Corinthians 15:14 And if Christ be not risen, then is our preaching vain, and your faith is also vain.

“fruits” Greek G2590 · used in 56 verses

  • Matthew 3:8 Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance:
  • Luke 1:42 And she spake out with a loud voice, and said, Blessed art thou among women, and blessed is the fruit of thy womb.
  • Acts 2:30 Therefore being a prophet, and knowing that God had sworn with an oath to him, that of the fruit of his loins, according to the flesh, he would raise up Christ to sit on his throne;