Matthew 15:13

But he answered and said, Every plant, which my heavenly Father hath not planted, shall be rooted up.

Matthew 15:13 (KJV)

Context

Jesus spoke these words after the Pharisees and scribes criticized His disciples for not following the tradition of washing hands before eating. In Matthew 15:1-9, He had exposed their hypocrisy, showing how their traditions, such as Corban, could actually invalidate God’s commandments. He then taught that defilement comes from within, from the heart, not from what enters the mouth (Matthew 15:10-11). When the disciples told Him that the Pharisees were offended by His teaching, Jesus answered with the metaphor of the plant.

Meaning

Jesus declares that every plant which His heavenly Father has not planted will be rooted up. The plant represents people, teachings, or traditions that do not originate from God. The phrase “my heavenly Father hath not planted” points to divine origin: what lacks God’s approval and blessing is not truly His. The promise that such a plant “shall be rooted up” means its destruction is certain. This is both a warning and a comfort. It warns that false doctrine and its teachers will not ultimately stand, and it assures believers that what God has planted cannot be uprooted.

Biblical connections

This verse connects with Jesus’ earlier teaching in the same discourse about the heart and true worship. The metaphor of planting also echoes Old Testament imagery, where God plants His people as a vine or a tree (Psalm 1:3; Isaiah 61:3). Just as a plant is known by its roots and fruit, believers are called to discern the true origin of teachings and influences. Anything contrary to God’s truth will be removed, while what He has established will endure.

Application

This verse urges believers to examine the sources of what they believe and practice. Not every religious tradition or teaching is planted by God. We are to test all things against His Word, holding fast to what is good and rejecting what contradicts His truth. It also encourages us to trust that God will ultimately deal with falsehood. We need not be shaken when ungodly systems seem strong, for their end is certain. Instead, we are to remain rooted in Christ, bearing fruit that honors Him.

Reflection

Consider what is planted in your own life. Are your beliefs, habits, and priorities rooted in God’s Word, or have they grown from human tradition? Ask the Father to reveal anything He has not planted, and give you the courage to let it be uprooted. Rest in the assurance that what He has planted in you—His truth, His righteousness, His work—will stand forever.