Luke 3:9

9 And already also the axe is applied to the root of the trees; every tree therefore not producing good fruit is cut down and cast into [the] fire.

Luke 3:9 Meaning and Commentary

Luke 3:9

And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees,
&c.] Not only to Jesse's family, which as a root in a dry ground, and to Jerusalem, the metropolis of the nation; but to the root of the vain boasting of every Jew; their descent from Abraham, the covenant made with him, their ecclesiastical state and civil polity, all which would quickly be at an end: the Romans were now among them, the axe in God's hand; by means of whom, utter ruin and destruction would be brought upon their nation, city, and temple:

every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn
down, and cast into the fire;
(See Gill on Matthew 3:10).

Luke 3:9 In-Context

7 He said therefore to the crowds which went out to be baptised by him, Offspring of vipers, who has forewarned you to flee from the coming wrath?
8 Produce therefore fruits worthy of repentance; and begin not to say in yourselves, We have Abraham for [our] father, for I say unto you that God is able of these stones to raise up children to Abraham.
9 And already also the axe is applied to the root of the trees; every tree therefore not producing good fruit is cut down and cast into [the] fire.
10 And the crowds asked him saying, What should we do then?
11 And he answering says to them, He that has two body-coats, let him give to him that has none; and he that has food, let him do likewise.

Footnotes 1

  • [a]. See Note l, Matt. 3.10.
The Darby Translation is in the public domain.