Matthew 7:9

9 Is there anyone here who, if his son asks him for a loaf of 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 "Keep asking, and it will be given to you; keep seeking, and you will find; keep knocking, and the door will be opened to you.

8 For everyone who keeps asking receives; he who keeps seeking finds; and to him who keeps knocking, the door will be opened.

9 Is there anyone here who, if his son asks him for a loaf of bread, will give him a stone?

10 or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?

11 So if you, even though you are bad, know how to give your children gifts that are good, how much more will your Father in heaven keep giving good things to those who keep asking him!