LUKE 6:43–45
A TREE KNOWN BY ITS FRUIT
Text – Luke 6:43–45
43 “A good tree does not bear rotten fruit, nor does a rotten tree bear good fruit.”
44 “For every tree is known by its own fruit. For people do not pick figs from thornbushes, nor do they gather grapes from brambles.”
45 “A good person out of the store of goodness in his heart produces good, but an evil person out of a store of evil produces evil; for from the fullness of the heart the mouth speaks.”
Historical and Jewish Context
The image of fruit-bearing trees was common in Jewish wisdom literature and the prophets, symbolizing moral behavior and judgment (cf. Psalm 1:3; Jeremiah 17:5–10). In a rural agrarian society, people understood clearly the metaphor: a tree’s health is known not by its appearance but by the quality of its fruit. Jesus applies this image to human behavior, showing that one’s words and actions reveal the true condition of the heart.
Catholic Theological Perspective
This teaching emphasizes the moral consequences of our interior life. Goodness and evil originate not from external observance but from the heart (CCC 2517, 2846). The heart in biblical thought is the center of the person’s will, intellect, and emotions. Jesus teaches that inner holiness leads to good works, while a corrupt heart leads to sinful behavior (CCC 1431, 1451). This affirms the Catholic understanding of virtue: habitual goodness formed by grace, discipline, and cooperation with God (CCC 1803–1811).
Parallels in Scripture
Psalm 1:1–3 – The righteous like a tree that bears fruit in due season
Proverbs 4:23 – “Guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life”
Matthew 7:16–20 – Similar tree and fruit metaphor
Galatians 5:22–23 – Fruits of the Holy Spirit
James 3:10–12 – A spring cannot yield both fresh and brackish water
Key Terms
Tree and Fruit – Metaphor for character and behavior
Store of the Heart – The inner reservoir of thoughts, desires, and values
Goodness – Moral virtue flowing from union with God
Evil – That which corrupts and separates from God
Fullness of the Heart – What dominates the interior will eventually manifest
Catholic Liturgical Significance
This passage is used in Ordinary Time liturgies and highlights the importance of spiritual integrity. It invites self-examination and reminds the faithful that Christian discipleship must bear visible fruit. The sacraments, especially Reconciliation and the Eucharist, purify and nourish the heart to produce good fruit.
Conclusion
Jesus teaches that a person’s true identity is revealed not by words alone, but by consistent actions that reflect a heart rooted in God. Disciples are called to cultivate inner virtue that manifests in outward holiness. Good fruit is the result of grace, prayer, and moral integrity.
Reflection
What fruit is my life bearing—words, actions, habits?
Is my heart filled more with God’s love or worldly concerns?
How can I cultivate a heart that produces good fruit for the Kingdom?
Prayer
Lord Jesus, cleanse my heart and fill it with Your Spirit. Let my thoughts, words, and actions reflect Your goodness. Help me to be a tree that bears fruit in love, patience, kindness, and truth. Amen.