You will recognize them by their fruits. Do people gather grapes from thorns, or figs from thistles?
In this passage Jesus teaches that false prophets or hypocrites can be recognized by their deeds and results—by their “fruits.” Just as plants are known by their fruits, so people are known by their actions. Jesus clearly points out that good deeds cannot come from evil intentions, just as it is impossible to get good fruit from thorns or thistles. This word calls people to be discerning, to evaluate others by their deeds, and to reject those who are outwardly pious in words but harmful and false in their actions.