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Matthew 12:35

A good man out of the good treasure of the heart bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of the evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

Matthew 12:35 · King James Version

Meaning

In this verse, Jesus is teaching his followers a profound truth about the nature of human character. He uses the analogy of a treasure to illustrate how our hearts are the source of our words and actions. Just as a person will bring forth what they have stored in their heart, whether good or evil, our words and actions are a reflection of our innermost thoughts and attitudes. This verse challenges us to examine our hearts and to cultivate good thoughts and intentions so that we may bring forth good things in our lives. It reminds us that true goodness comes from within, and that our words and actions are a reflection of what is truly in our hearts. By understanding and embracing this truth, we can strive to live a life that is rooted in goodness, kindness, and love.

Theological Overview

One way to interpret this verse is through a theological lens, focusing on the idea of the human heart as a storehouse for good or evil. The heart, in biblical terms, represents the innermost part of a person where their thoughts, feelings, and desires reside. In this context, the "treasure of the heart" refers to the innermost character or moral nature of an individual. Therefore, a good person, who harbors good intentions and values in their heart, will naturally produce good deeds and words. Conversely, an evil person, whose heart is corrupted by malevolent thoughts and intentions, will produce evil actions and words. This verse emphasizes the importance of cultivating a pure and righteous heart in order to bring forth goodness in our lives.

Matthew 12:35 in other translations

American Standard Version

The good man out of his good treasure bringeth forth good things: and the evil man out of his evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

World English Bible

The good man out of his good treasure brings out good things, and the evil man out of his evil treasure brings out evil things.

Douay-Rheims

A good man out of a good treasure bringeth forth good things: and an evil man out of an evil treasure bringeth forth evil things.

Geneva Bible (1599)

A good man out of the good treasure of his heart bringeth foorth good things: and an euill man out of an euill treasure, bringeth forth euill things.