ILLUSTRATIONS WITH TREES AND BUILDERS (MATTHEW 7:15-29)

REFLECTION The theme “Illustration with Trees and Builders” originates from the concluding section of Matthew’s Gospel, specifically chapter 7. In this passage, Jesus uses two vivid comparisons to explain how we can identify true followers of God. An illustration is a story or an image used to make a complex idea easy to understand. Here,…

Jean-Paul Agidi

Jan 22, 2026

3–5 minutes

bible, christianity, faith, god, jesus

REFLECTION

The theme “Illustration with Trees and Builders” originates from the concluding section of Matthew’s Gospel, specifically chapter 7. In this passage, Jesus uses two vivid comparisons to explain how we can identify true followers of God. An illustration is a story or an image used to make a complex idea easy to understand. Here, the trees represent our character and the “fruit” of our lives, while the builders represent how we choose to establish our spiritual foundations.

The key lessons from this passage are clear: first, true faith is proven by its results, not just by words. Second, a life that can withstand the storms of worldliness must be built on the solid rock of obedience to God’s Word. Through these metaphors, Jesus warns us against deception—both from others and from ourselves.

The Tree and Its Fruit: Discernment and Character

Jesus begins by warning us to “Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves” (Matthew 7:15). He explains that we can identify these people by their “fruit.” Just as a healthy apple tree does not produce thorns, a person truly led by the Spirit of God will produce goodness, peace, and love.

Jesus says, “Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit” (Matthew 7:17). This teaches us that our actions are the natural result of our inner heart. If we claim to be Christians but our lives are full of bitterness, dishonesty, or pride, we must check our “roots.”

For example, a person might attend church every Sunday and speak eloquently about the Bible. However, if they are unkind to their neighbours or dishonest in their business dealings, their “fruit” is bad. Scripture tells us, “By their fruit you will recognise them” (Matthew 7:20). We are called to be “good trees” by allowing the Holy Spirit to transform our character from the inside out.

The Two Builders: Obedience as a Foundation

After discussing character, Jesus moves to the famous illustration of the two builders. He contrasts the “wise man” who builds his house on the rock with the “foolish man” who builds on the sand. The difference between the two is not just what they heard, but what they did.

Jesus states, “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).

Building on the rock is hard work. It requires digging deep and choosing the more difficult path of obedience. Building on the sand is easier and faster; it represents a life built on worldly trends, personal opinions, or “cheap” grace that requires no change in lifestyle.

Consider a person facing a sudden crisis, such as a health scare or a job loss. This is the “storm” Jesus describes: “The rain came down, the streams rose, and the winds blew and beat against that house; yet it did not fall, because it had its foundation on the rock” (Matthew 7:25). If our faith is only a set of ideas, it will wash away. But if our faith is built on the habit of obeying God, we will remain standing. Conversely, “The falling of it was great” (Matthew 7:27) for those who ignore God’s commands.

Conclusion: A Call to Authenticity

In summary, the illustrations of the trees and the builders serve as a solemn call to authenticity. We have learnt that:

True character is revealed by fruit: Words are cheap, but a transformed life is the true evidence of salvation.
Obedience is the only foundation: Hearing the Word of God is not enough; we must “put it into practice” to survive the trials of life.
Deception is a reality: We must be discerning about who we follow and honest about the state of our own hearts.

Ultimately, Jesus is not interested in how beautiful our “house” looks on the outside. He is interested in the foundation. Let us strive to be good trees and wise builders.

Prayer

Dear Lord, thank You for the clarity of Your Word. We ask that You help us to be “good trees” that bear fruit pleasing to You. Forgive us for the times we have been like the foolish builder, relying on our own strength or the shifting sands of this world. Grant us the grace to be doers of Your Word and not hearers only. May our lives be built firmly on the Rock of Christ, so that we may stand firm through every storm. In Jesus’ name, Amen.