Definition: Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?

Explanation: Okay, let’s break down this Bible verse from Matthew 7:16. It's a really important and insightful statement about evaluating people. Here’s the explanation in simple terms: The Core Idea: This verse is essentially saying that we can truly know someone by what they do – not just what they say or who they are. It’s about looking beyond their words to see if their actions align with their character and intentions. Let's unpack the metaphor: Grapes of Thistles: These represent people who are outwardly nice, popular, or successful but are actually dishonest, evil, or manipulative. Think someone who pretends to be generous but secretly takes advantage. Figs of Thistles: These represent people who are hardworking, honest, and compassionate. They may not always be the most popular or impressive, but they consistently act with integrity. The Meaning – It’s About Character & Trust: Jesus is saying that we shouldn't just judge people based on their reputation or how they present themselves. Instead, we need to look at their actions and see if they are truly good and trustworthy. If someone consistently acts in a way that contradicts their words, it's a sign of something deeper – maybe they aren’t being honest with themselves or with others. In short: Don’t just look at the surface; examine their character through what they do . Why is this important? Jesus emphasizes that true faith and loyalty are revealed by a person's actions, not just their words. It calls us to be discerning and to look for genuine goodness in others. --- Do you want me to: Explain the verse further with examples? Discuss what this verse means in relation to Christian ethics or principles?