Expositor's Bible Commentary Commentary Luke 3:9

"And even now the axe also lieth at the root of the trees: every tree therefore that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire." — Luke 3:9 (ASV)

The language is picturesque. Two images are presented. First, a tree that does not produce fruit should be chopped down and removed to make way for one that will (cf. 6:43–45; 13:6–9). The imagery may be intended to call to mind the figure of Israel as a fig tree or vine (cf. Isaiah 5:1–7). The second image, the ax “at the root,” symbolizes an impending radical action, the destruction of the whole tree. Mere physical descent from Abraham is not important (cf. Jn 8:31-43; Romans 9:6–8; Galatians 3:6–9); God can create his own children out of stones, just as he can cause inanimate stones to praise his Son if humans remain silent (19:40). The threat of judgment is heightened through the imagery of fire, a theme reintroduced in the reference to Jesus’ ministry (vv.16–17).