Matthew 3:2,8 - Compare All Versions

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While Jesus was living in the Galilean hills, John, called “the Baptizer,” was preaching in the desert country of Judea. His message was simple and austere, like his desert surroundings: “Change your life. God’s kingdom is here.”

When John realized that a lot of Pharisees and Sadducees were showing up for a baptismal experience because it was becoming the popular thing to do, he exploded: “Brood of snakes! What do you think you’re doing slithering down here to the river? Do you think a little water on your snakeskins is going to make any difference? It’s your life that must change, not your skin! And don’t think you can pull rank by claiming Abraham as father. Being a descendant of Abraham is neither here nor there. Descendants of Abraham are a dime a dozen. What counts is your life. Is it green and flourishing? Because if it’s deadwood, it goes on the fire.

and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Bring forth therefore fruits meet for repentance

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Therefore bear fruit in keeping with repentance

John said, “Change your hearts and lives because the kingdom of heaven is near.”

Do the things that show you really have changed your hearts and lives.

Repent ye; for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.

Bring forth therefore fruit worthy of repentance

and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven has come near.”

Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.

and saying, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!”

Therefore bear fruits worthy of repentance

“Repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins, live your life in a way that proves repentance; seek God’s purpose for your life], for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

So produce fruit that is consistent with repentance [demonstrating new behavior that proves a change of heart, and a conscious decision to turn away from sin]

“Repent of your sins and turn to God, for the Kingdom of Heaven is near.”

Prove by the way you live that you have repented of your sins and turned to God.

“Heaven’s kingdom is about to appear—so you’d better keep turning away from evil and turn back to God!”

You must prove your repentance by a changed life.

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.”

Bear fruit in keeping with repentance.