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Explanation for:
Matthew
7
:
20
Wherefore by their fruits you shall know them.
8
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{"arr":[{"author-name":"John Chrysostom","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c88ea76859f9f8e2ffd3ee_John%20Chrysostom.png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":4,"exegesis-text":"He softened His message slightly, adding, \\"Therefore by their fruits you shall know them.\\" To prevent His listeners from perceiving Him solely as a threat, He appealed to their hearts by sharing His teaching as guidance and encouragement. It appears He also addresses the Jews, who displayed such fruits, reminding them of John's words and echoing their execution. He spoke of the axe and the tree that is chopped down, as well as the unquenchable fire. Though it seems as if there is only one punishment—burning—those who contemplate this matter closely will recognize two consequences. Indeed, the one who suffers the flames will undoubtedly also lose the kingdom; this second punishment is even harsher than the first. Many fear Gehenna alone; however, I believe the absence of celestial glory inflicts a torment more severe than Gehenna itself. If this sentiment remains unarticulated, it is no surprise, for we are unaware of the joy found in eternal goods, making it difficult to comprehend the agony associated with their absence. Yet Paul, who perceived this truth, understood that straying from the glory of Christ is most dreadful. This knowledge will be clearer to us when we experience it firsthand. Oh, if we had never faced this fate, O only-begotten Son of God! If we had never endured such unbearable punishment! It is impossible to convey how severe it is to lose heavenly blessings; however, I will strive to shed some light on it through an illustration. Imagine an extraordinary young man, one who harmoniously embodies virtue and governs the universe, perfectly instilling a fatherly love in all. What would a father not endure to retain his son's companionship? What hardships would he not willingly brave just to witness and enjoy his presence? Similarly, let us reflect on the glory of heaven. Truly, having a child, no matter how exceptional, cannot compare to the blessings bestowed by being with Christ (Philippians 1:23). Gehenna and its torments are unbearable; nevertheless, envisioning countless Gehennas pales in comparison to the heartbreak of being deprived of that blessed glory, feeling distanced from Christ, and hearing the words, \\"We do not perceive you\\" (Matthew 25:12) alongside the indictment that we, knowing Him to be hungry, did not provide sustenance. Indeed, it would be preferable to endure countless lightning strikes than to witness the gentle countenance of the Lord turned away from us, His clear eyes unwilling to meet ours. If He loved me, despite being His enemy, so intensely that He did not spare Himself but surrendered to death, how will I meet His gaze if, after all this, I failed to offer Him bread when He was in need? But even in this moment, observe His gentleness. He does not recite His benevolences, nor does He bemoan that we scorned such a generous benefactor. He refrains from saying: I brought you forth from nothingness, imparted a soul to you, made you ruler over all creation; for you, I fashioned the earth, the sky, the sea, and the air, and all that exists; from you I received scorn and was deemed inferior to a devil, yet I did not abandon you; I have opened countless paths for your salvation; I desired to serve you as Your servant; I have been struck, spat upon, slain, and died the most disgraceful death; I intercede for you in heaven, granting you the Spirit, honoring you with the Kingdom, extending to you these extraordinary gifts. I chose to be your head, bridegroom, garment, home, root, sustenance, shepherd, king, and brother; I selected you as my heir and joint-heir, bringing you from darkness into light. Though the Lord could declare all this and even more, He mentions but one of your transgressions. This act demonstrates the love and mercy He holds for you. He does not exclaim, \\"Depart into the fire prepared for you,\\" but rather into the fire appointed for the devil. He highlights first the offenses against Him, yet does not enumerate them all but refers to a few. Furthermore, before condemning those who have wronged Him, He calls upon the righteous to affirm His just accusations. What torment could be worse than His words? No one witnessing their benefactor starve would scorn him, and even should they be callous, they would prefer to bury themselves than face such an accusation before witnesses. What will become of us, then, when we hear this reproach from the Lord before all creation? Yet He would not express this accusation unless it were to vindicate His judgment. It is clear that He does not voice it to berate sinners, but to justify Himself, demonstrating that His decree to say “Depart from Me” was not made without sound reason, especially in light of His indescribable favors. Had He sought to shame sinners, He would have recalled all His benefits; instead, He speaks only of what He endured. Therefore, beloved, let us be fearful of hearing these words. Our existence is not a trivial matter; indeed, while our earthly lives may seem a trifling game, our eternal existence is anything but. It is fraught with consequences for those who neglect to better themselves diligently. Ask yourself: how do those of us who construct magnificent edifices differ from children playing at building? What separates our meals from their simple feasts? Nothing distinguishes them, save for our earnest toil. If we fail to recognize the triviality of our pursuits, it is unsurprising, for we have yet to truly mature. Upon reaching adulthood, we recognize childish games as inconsequential, even while, as children, we deemed them critical, gathering debris as if it were of utmost importance. What we erect soon crumbles, and even if it were to endure, what good would it serve us? The same is true of our glorious structures. They cannot welcome a citizen of heaven, nor will those seeking a higher homeland dwell within them; just as we crush children's toys underfoot, so He dismantles our edifices with His spirit. And just as we laugh at children lamenting the loss of their cottages, He not only laughs but also grieves alongside us, recognizing the profound tragedy of our attachments. Let us therefore rise to true manhood. How long will we linger in the dust, enthralled by stones and trees? How long shall we remain in this childish revelry? And not mere play, for in our distractions, we jeopardize our very salvation. Like undisciplined children who ignore lessons in favor of games, we are destined for severe retribution, having devoted ourselves tirelessly to worldly matters while failing to practice the spiritual teachings we will be called to account for after death. No one can rescue us—not a father, a brother, or any other ally. Everything to which we cling will vanish, and the anguish resulting from such loss will be ceaseless. It mirrors children whose father, angry with their idleness, destroys all their toys, causing them to weep endlessly. To illustrate the truth of my words, consider that which humanity prizes most—wealth. Let us envision two men (not in the context of greed, but of wealth gained justly). One, let’s say, amasses riches through trade, cultivating lands and exploiting all means of acquisition; even if he acts lawfully, he may struggle to find virtue in his pursuit. Conversely, let us imagine another man who possesses equal wealth but chooses to sell his properties, give away gold and silver vessels, and aid those in need. He heals the sick, liberates captives, and alleviates suffering. Whose role would you prefer? I speak presently; whom would you wish to accompany—the one who accumulates gold, or the one who uplifts others from adversity? Is it the one who acquires fields, or the one who commits himself to serve humankind? Is it the one adorned in riches, or the one who is lauded with countless praises? Is not the latter like an angel descended from heaven to correct others? And does the former not resemble a child collecting toys without any purpose, as opposed to a mature individual? If even lawful wealth seems worthy of mockery, what label do we assign to the one who amasses it dishonestly? If the honest seeker of riches invites scorn, what tears will be worthy of him facing death, when Gehenna and the loss of the Kingdom will also torment him? Let us consider another type of virtue. Picture a powerful man, adorned with glorious trappings, exalted by many servants and heralds, possessing a commanding presence and basking in admiration. Does this not seem appealing? Now contrast him with another, one who chooses humility, patience, and generosity, enduring insults graciously and blessing those who mistreat him. Which of these is deserving of wonder? Is it the arrogant and ostentatious figure or the humble one? Is not the latter akin to steadfast mountains, while the former resembles a hollow balloon, afflicted by swelling? Is not the humble one like a healer of spirits, while the other is a foolish child puffing his cheeks? What do you take pride in, O man? Is it your lofty chariot or the mule that pulls it? Does no one else rejoice in stones? Is it your fine attire? But consider the one who is clothed in virtue; you will see how insignificant your finery appears alongside him. You adorn yourself with garments destined to decay, fit only for insects to destroy; gold and silver are mere elements of the earth. In contrast, he who wears virtue possesses an unblemished garment, invulnerable to moths, and even death itself holds no threat to its integrity. This is indeed a truth: the treasures of the soul are heavenly in origin, bearing fruit from the spiritual realm, beyond the reach of decay. These robes are woven in the heavens, where no corruption exists. So I ask you, which is preferable: to be rich or to be poor? To be honored or humiliated? To dwell in abundance or to suffer need? Surely, it is better to be esteemed, to possess abundance, and to revel in wealth. Thus, if you truly desire these substantial things and not mere titles, abandon earthly treasures and aspire to heavenly wealth. All that is transient here is but a shadow; what exists in heaven is unyielding, beyond the grasp of anyone. Let us pursue heavenly riches with fervent diligence, seeking liberation from earthly woes, so that when we arrive at that tranquil harbor, we may bring not just ourselves but a bountiful load of love and grace. May we all reach that haven and experience those riches through the grace and compassion of our Lord Jesus Christ, to whom be glory and sovereignty forever. Amen."},{"author-name":"Euthymios Zigabenos","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":11,"exegesis-text":"Thus, it is affirmed in this manner—precisely so. After offering insights rooted in examples and demonstrating how to identify such individuals, he concludes: in the manner described, their wrongful actions will serve as a means of recognition."},{"author-name":"Abbot Panteleimon about the Trinity","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In summary, the Lord, seemingly to temper His stern warning, reiterated, “Therefore, I say again, you will recognize them by their fruits, by the actions of the deceitful teachers. The wrath of God is severe against all deceitful hypocrites. Yet, one who has faith but lives recklessly will not avoid the same destruction. The Jews placed their full confidence in doctrine while disregarding true life. Consequently, Paul admonishes them, ‘Behold, you are called a Jew, and you take pride in the law, and you glory in God (Rom. 2:17), but if your life and actions do not reflect this, it brings you no benefit.’”"},{"author-name":"Philaret (Amphiteatrov)","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c896e9b7a2ebaf99e4620a_Philaret%20(Amphiteatrov).png","category":"Holy Fathers and Teachers","century":19,"exegesis-text":"We should not identify true teachers of righteousness based on their intellectual sharpness, eloquence, or outward display of humility, but rather by the sanctity of their lives and their actions which align with the commandments of the Gospel. The quality of a tree is not judged by its leaves or trunk, but by its fruit; the nature of the tree determines the type of fruit it bears. Grapes are not harvested from thornbushes, nor are figs picked from thistles. A genuine preacher is inherently a person of devotion and integrity. A righteous person brings forth virtuous deeds and words from the good treasures of his heart, much like a healthy tree yields good fruit. Conversely, an unrighteous individual, despite their eloquence, produces wicked actions and harmful words from the evil reserves of their heart, just as a corrupt tree bears rotten fruit. \\n\\nSuch deceitful teachers may attain the accolades of earthly wisdom and deceptive philosophy, appealing to a vast audience, but they do so apart from Christ. However, the Lord, the sole eternal Judge of heaven and earth, will inevitably render judgment upon them: every tree that fails to produce good fruit will be uprooted and cast into the fire. Who would be so unwise as to follow their deceptions and thereby share in their wretched destiny for all eternity? Beloved brethren, who share in the heavenly calling, all of us, through the immeasurable grace of our heavenly Father, are connected to the baptismal waters, akin to branches joined to the life-giving vine, our Lord and Redeemer Jesus Christ. We can only bear fruitful works for salvation when we remain steadfastly united to Him through the faithful observance of His commandments. Nothing and no one can separate us from this life-sustaining vine if we hold onto it with sincere faith, hope, and love. \\n\\nThe trials and struggles that our heavenly Father may permit on our journey toward eternal life through the cross are manifestations of His paternal care, aimed at purifying our souls from sin—much like a gardener prunes a vine to promote greater fruitfulness. Therefore, with all our faith, hope, love, and heart, let us remain connected to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ until the end of our days, so that we may produce the fruit of good works leading to eternal life. Amen."},{"author-name":"Kochomski S.W.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Deceptive teachers can be identified by their actions and way of life. In this context, St. Luke emphasizes that a righteous individual, drawing from the good stored in his heart, produces positive outcomes, while a wicked person, influenced by the evil contained within, yields negative results. Therefore, it is crucial to discern false teachers through their actions: those who harbor truth in their hearts will naturally make wise choices and engage in virtuous deeds, whereas those who carry falsehoods will generate deceitful words and harmful actions. The content of one’s speech reveals what fills the heart."},{"author-name":"Paul Matwejewski","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8969f5be0d592d5a10576_Paul%20Matwejewski.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"Subsequent to this, the Lord addressed the Jewish people, echoing the admonition that Saint John the Baptist had proclaimed to the Pharisees and Sadducees, warning of the impending and dreadful judgement from God along with everlasting punishment for falsehood and deceit: Every tree that does not bear good fruit is chopped down and cast into the fire. To elucidate this parable, Jesus Christ conveyed the essentiality of living a righteous life for those who genuinely follow the Gospel, stating, “Not everyone who says to Me, 'Lord, Lord,' shall enter the Kingdom of Heaven, but he who does the will of My Father who is in Heaven.”"},{"author-name":"Bogolepow D.P.","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c96d263b8c22d9c467bdab_no-pic-theosis.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"The path to God's kingdom is further obstructed by the emergence of false prophets who resemble sheep but are, in reality, wolves among the faithful. For this reason, Christ cautions His followers about these deceivers, emphasizing the unmistakable way to identify the genuine messengers from the impostors: “by their fruits ye shall know them.” This means that one can assess their authenticity by observing how they live and act in alignment with their teachings, as well as how they guide the actions of their followers."},{"author-name":"Alexander Gorsky","author-image":"https://cdn.prod.website-files.com/6864003fdf3714da6ff0b33a/68c8884037c1e1c51e1332e2_Alexander%20Gorsky.png","category":"Christian Authors","century":19,"exegesis-text":"In summary, the Lord emphasized the importance of turning to God in prayer during every need. He instructed His followers to ensure that their love for neighbors mirrors their love for themselves. Additionally, He urged them to embrace the narrow path, to be cautious of false teachers, and to put into practice the teachings they had received. By establishing these life principles, the Lord highlighted the crucial differences between the righteousness of His followers and that of the Pharisees, providing a solid foundation for the spiritual development of His chosen community. These teachings were not only relevant to that particular time and group but were intended as a guiding law for all believers, rooted in the eternal principles of Divine holiness and morality ingrained in human nature by the Creator. \\n\\nThe disciples, having had little formal instruction prior, had only been associated with John the Baptist for a time, including Andrew and John. The Lord selected those who demonstrated sincere love and trust in Him, untainted by misguided aspirations, and took on the role of their teacher. He instructed them both through His words and His actions, whether in solitude or in public, in homes and on journeys, across land and sea. What was unclear to others, He clarified to them. They were constant witnesses of His life and miracles, and He gradually dismantled their preconceived notions influenced by Jewish teachings. While He did not erase all errors from their understanding, He transformed these missteps into lessons. He allowed them to engage with one another on topics pertinent to their experiences, all while being aware of not only their discussions but also the innermost thoughts of individuals. He guided their emotional responses, aligning them with their responsibilities. In essence, He cleansed and enlightened their hearts and minds, equipping them for the complete outpouring of the Spirit of truth and sanctification. Initially, they related to Him as disciples; by the conclusion of His journey, He regarded them as His friends (Jn. 15:14-15), sharing everything with them, and ultimately as brothers."}]}
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