Transcript:

Matthew 3:10—“And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees: therefore every tree which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire.”

This verse records the solemn warning of John the Baptist: “And now also the axe is laid unto the root of the trees”. John preached in the wilderness to prepare Israel for the appearing of the Messiah. Many came to him, including Pharisees and Sadducees, yet he discerned that outward religious profession could exist without inward repentance. Hence, he had already commanded, “Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance” (v. 8).

The “axe” laid at the root portrays God’s imminent and searching judgment. It is not merely directed at outward acts, but at the root of a person’s life, even at the heart, from which words, attitudes, and conduct proceed. A tree may possess leaves, height, and an impressive appearance; nevertheless, if it bears no good fruit, it is useless. So also, ancestry, religious privileges, church attendance, knowledge of Scripture, or a respectable reputation cannot substitute for a renewed heart.

The “good fruit” of which John speaks is not the meritorious cause of salvation. Sinners are justified only by God’s grace through faith in Christ. Yet true repentance and living faith inevitably produce a changed life. The believer learns to forsake sin, love righteousness, obey God’s Word, and show mercy and integrity. As the Lord Jesus later taught, “Every good tree bringeth forth good fruit” (Matthew 7:17).

The warning that the fruitless tree is “hewn down, and cast into the fire” declares the certainty and severity of divine judgment upon unrepentant sinners. God is patient, but His patience must never be mistaken for indifference. Therefore, each hearer should examine himself honestly. Have we rested in religious appearance, or have we turned unto Christ with a repentant heart? Let us flee from empty profession and seek the grace that produces fruit unto the glory of God.