Matthew 12:35 – “A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.”
Extended Explanation of the Verse
In this verse, Jesus explains the principle that our actions and words reflect what’s inside our hearts. A person who is spiritually healthy and connected to God will produce good things—words and deeds that align with God’s will. On the other hand, a person whose heart is filled with sin and selfishness will produce harmful and destructive words and actions.
The idea of “storing up” suggests that what we focus on and cultivate in our hearts determines the kind of person we become. This verse challenges us to examine the content of our inner lives and ensure that we are filling our hearts with God’s truth and love.
Historical Context
Jesus was speaking to the Pharisees, who had just accused Him of casting out demons by the power of Beelzebul (Satan). Their accusation revealed their spiritual corruption and resistance to the truth. Outwardly, they appeared religious and righteous, but their words and actions showed the evil that was in their hearts.
In the broader context of Jewish thought, the heart was seen as the center of a person’s will and character. What was stored in the heart—whether good or evil—would inevitably be revealed in behavior and speech.
Theological Implications
This verse emphasizes the importance of inner transformation. True goodness doesn’t come from simply trying harder to do the right thing. It flows from a heart that has been changed by God. When God’s truth and Spirit fill our hearts, they naturally produce good words and actions.
It also highlights the seriousness of cultivating what is in our hearts. We are responsible for what we “store up” within us. If we allow sin, bitterness, or selfishness to take root, it will eventually show in our lives. Conversely, when we intentionally focus on God’s Word, prayer, and obedience, we will bear fruit that honors Him.
Literary Analysis
The parallel structure of this verse contrasts the “good man” and the “evil man,” emphasizing that our actions are the natural outcome of what’s inside us. The imagery of “storing up” suggests intentionality and accumulation over time, showing that our inner lives are shaped by what we prioritize and value.
The repetition of “good” and “evil” reinforces the dichotomy between a life aligned with God and one opposed to Him. This clarity helps drive home Jesus’ point about the connection between the heart and behavior.
Relevant Biblical Cross-References
- Proverbs 4:23: “Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it.”
- Luke 6:45: A parallel passage emphasizing that the mouth speaks what the heart is full of.
- John 15:5: Jesus teaches that abiding in Him leads to bearing good fruit.
- Galatians 5:22-23: The fruit of the Spirit, which reflects a heart transformed by God.
- James 3:10-12: A warning about the inconsistency of producing both blessing and cursing from the same source.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse calls us to pay close attention to what we allow to shape our hearts and minds. Are we filling ourselves with God’s truth, love, and grace, or are we letting negative influences take root? What we store up in our hearts will inevitably shape our words, actions, and relationships.
This verse also encourages us to seek God’s transformation. It reminds us that lasting change doesn’t come from external effort alone but from a heart renewed by the Holy Spirit. As we draw closer to God, His goodness will overflow into every area of our lives.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse reflects God’s love in His desire for us to live fruitful and meaningful lives. He doesn’t want us to be burdened by sin or negativity but to experience the joy and freedom that come from a heart filled with His goodness. God’s love is also seen in His willingness to transform our hearts when we surrender to Him.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the perfect example of a good man bringing forth good things. His words, actions, and entire life reflected the goodness of His heart, which was perfectly aligned with God’s will. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus offers us the opportunity to have our hearts renewed so that we can also produce good fruit.
In John 15:5, Jesus teaches that abiding in Him is the key to bearing good fruit. This verse reminds us that staying connected to Jesus is essential for living a life that honors God.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- What are you storing up in your heart? How is it reflected in your words and actions?
- How can you intentionally fill your heart with God’s truth and goodness?
- What does this verse teach you about the connection between your inner life and outward behavior?
- Are there areas of your life where negative influences are affecting your heart? How can you address them?
- How does Jesus’ example of goodness inspire you to live a life that reflects His character?
This verse challenges us to focus on the condition of our hearts, trusting God to transform us from the inside out. It encourages us to store up what is good and pleasing to Him so that our lives reflect His love, truth, and grace to the world around us.