Matthew 7:9

9 Or which of you, if his son makes a request for bread, will give him a stone?

Matthew 7:9 Meaning and Commentary

Matthew 7:9

Or what man is there of you
"That is a father", as in ( Luke 11:11 ) that is, is in the relation, and has the affections of a father; and indeed is a man, and has the nature and passions of a man; unless he is become a mere brute, and devoid of all humanity,

whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone?
No, by no means; no man can act such a merciless, cruel part as this to a child: for though he might impose upon him by the likeness of some sort of stones with bread; yet could not hope to satisfy his hunger, or stop his mouth this way; but must expect to hear from him again with bitter complaints.

Matthew 7:9 In-Context

7 Make a request, and it will be answered; what you are searching for you will get; give the sign, and the door will be open to you:

8 Because to everyone who makes a request, it will be given; and he who is searching will get his desire, and to him who gives the sign, the door will be open.

9 Or which of you, if his son makes a request for bread, will give him a stone?

10 Or if he makes a request for a fish, will give him a snake?

11 If you, then, being evil, are able to give good things to your children, how much more will your Father in heaven give good things to those who make requests to him?