Matthew 7:10- “Or if he asks for a fish, will give him a snake?”
Extended Explanation
This verse continues Jesus’ teaching about God’s goodness and generosity, using another relatable illustration to make His point. Jesus is drawing on the common sense of His audience: a parent would never give their child something harmful, like a snake, when they ask for something good and necessary, like a fish. Through this example, Jesus shows that God, as our perfect Father, will not give us something bad or dangerous when we ask Him for help or provision. This verse emphasizes that God’s responses to our prayers are always good, even if they don’t look exactly like what we expect.
Historical Context
In Jesus’ time, fish were a common source of food for the people, especially in the regions around the Sea of Galilee. Snakes, on the other hand, were seen as symbols of danger and deceit. By contrasting these two items, Jesus vividly demonstrated the absurdity of a parent giving their child something harmful in place of something beneficial. This teaching would have resonated with His audience, who understood the responsibility of parents to care for their children. Jesus used this analogy to build trust in God’s goodness and to encourage His followers to approach God with confidence in prayer.
Theological Implications
This verse highlights God’s goodness and faithfulness in providing for His children. It assures us that God’s responses to our prayers will never be harmful or deceptive. Even when we don’t immediately understand His answers, we can trust that He has our best interests at heart. This teaching also reinforces the relational aspect of prayer. God is not distant or indifferent; He is a loving Father who cares deeply for His children and desires to bless them with what is truly good.
Literary Analysis
The structure of this verse mirrors the rhetorical question in Matthew 7:9, creating a parallel that emphasizes the reliability and kindness of God. The contrast between the fish and the snake adds depth to the imagery, making the message clear and memorable. Jesus’ use of everyday examples makes this teaching accessible to all listeners, inviting them to reflect on the nature of God as a good and trustworthy Father.
Biblical Cross-References
- Luke 11:11: A parallel passage that includes the same analogy of a fish and a snake.
- Psalm 84:11: “For the Lord God is a sun and shield; the Lord bestows favor and honor; no good thing does he withhold from those whose walk is blameless.”
- James 1:17: “Every good and perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of the heavenly lights, who does not change like shifting shadows.”
- Romans 8:28: “And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose.”
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder to trust in God’s character and provision. It encourages us to approach Him in prayer, knowing that He hears us and will respond with goodness. Even when His answers don’t match our desires or expectations, we can trust that He is working for our ultimate good. This verse also challenges us to examine how we view God—do we see Him as a loving Father who gives good gifts, or do we struggle with doubt about His care for us?
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
This verse highlights God’s loving nature and His desire to provide for His children. By comparing God’s care to that of a parent, Jesus shows that God’s love surpasses even the most devoted human relationships. God’s responses to our prayers are not only generous but also wise and protective. He knows what we need and what would harm us, and He gives accordingly. This teaching reflects God’s deep care for His people and His commitment to their well-being.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
Jesus is the ultimate expression of God’s good gift to humanity. Through His life, death, and resurrection, Jesus provided what we needed most—salvation and reconciliation with God. His ministry demonstrated God’s generosity and care, as He fed the hungry, healed the sick, and forgave sins. In John 3:16, we see the greatest act of God’s love: sending His Son to save the world. Jesus’ teachings and actions continually remind us of God’s perfect provision and faithfulness.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- How does this verse shape your understanding of God’s care for His children?
- Are there times when you’ve struggled to trust God’s provision? How does this verse encourage you?
- How can you grow in confidence to approach God with your needs in prayer?
- What examples of God’s “good gifts” have you experienced in your life?
- How does Jesus’ life and sacrifice demonstrate God’s faithfulness and generosity?
This verse assures us of God’s loving provision and invites us to trust Him fully. As we approach Him with our needs, we can have confidence that He will respond with kindness, wisdom, and what is truly best for us.