Matthew 7:9

New Testament Gospel ASV (1901)

What does Matthew 7:9 say?

The American Standard Version records this verse as: “Or what man is there of you, who, if his son shall ask him for a loaf, will give him a stone;” Read the surrounding verses and the named sources below before drawing broader conclusions.

The verse

Or what man is there of you, who, if his son shall ask him for a loaf, will give him a stone;
Matthew 7:9 — American Standard Version

Context — Matthew 7

American Standard Version (1901) — public domain. Click any verse for its study page.
9Or what man is there of you, who, if his son shall ask him for a loaf, will give him a stone;

What do historical commentaries say?

John Gill's Exposition
John Gill (1697–1771) · Exposition of the Old and New Testament · 18th-century historical commentary
“Or what man is there of you, etc.] “That is a father”, as in (<421111>Luke 11:11) that is, is in the relation, and has the affections of a father; and indeed is a man, and has the nature and passions of a man; unless he is become a mere brute, and devoid of all humanity, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? No, by no means; no man can act such a merciless, cruel part as this to a child: for though he might impose upon him by the likeness of some sort of stones with bread; yet could not hope to satisfy his hunger, or stop his mouth this way; but must expect to hear from him again with bitter complaints.”
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Jamieson, Fausset & Brown
Robert Jamieson, A. R. Fausset & David Brown · Commentary Critical and Explanatory on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread--a loaf. will he give him a stone?--round and smooth like such a loaf or cake as was much in use, but only to mock him.”
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Barnes' Notes
Albert Barnes (1798–1870) · Notes on the Whole Bible · 19th-century historical commentary
“Ask, and it shall be given you ... - There are here three different forms presented of seeking the things which we need from God - asking, ‘seeking, and knocking. The latter is taken from the act of knocking at a door for admittance. See Luke 13:25; Revelation 3:20. The phrases signify to seek with earnestness, diligence, and perseverance. The promise is, that what we seek shall be given us. It is of course implied that we seek with a proper spirit, with humility, sincerity, and perseverance. It is implied, also, that we ask the things which it may be consistent for God to give - that is, things which he has promised to give, and which would be best for us, and most for his own honor, 1 John…”
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Treasury of Scriptural Knowledge
R. A. Torrey and contributors · The Treasury of Scripture Knowledge · Cross-reference reference work
“Luk 11:11-13 Matthew 7:11”
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Related study paths

Sources and verification