Matthew 12:34 - Exposition

The first clause is in Matthew only. O generation (ye offspring , Revised Version) of vipers ( Matthew 3:7 , note). Observe that the figure of the tree had also been used by the Baptist ( Matthew 3:10 ). How can ye. It is against nature. Being evil ; i.e. inherently worthless ( Matthew 6:13 , note); cf. πονηροὶ ὄντες , Matthew 7:11 . Speak good things . For out of the abundance; i.e. even to overflowing. Of the heart the mouth speaketh. In Ephesians 4:29 there is apparently a reminiscence of this saying in connexion with our verse 33 (cf. also James 3:10-12 ).