Trees and fruit
by Rachael Stelzer
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Thus, by their fruit you will recognise them (Matthew 7:20).
Read Matthew 7:13–21
In this passage, Jesus taught his disciples how to recognise true prophets and true disciples from those who were tricking others, and even those who fooled themselves. It is not an easy teaching, but it is clear and simple.
Jesus used a simple analogy to help people understand the difference between true prophets and false ones. He pointed out that no-one picks grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles. A good tree bears good fruit, and a bad tree bears bad fruit. So rather than listening to what someone says, we need to look for the fruits demonstrated in their life.
Do we notice the fruit of the Spirit, their quality relationships and the empowering of those around them? Do we hear words of life and encouragement? Do they convey the love of a generous God?
Jesus even suggested that not everyone who calls him ‘Lord, Lord’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but only those who do those things that are God’s will for them.
US preacher, poet and philosopher Ralph Waldo Emerson has been quoted as saying, ‘Your actions speak so loud that I cannot hear what you say’. Rather than the ‘do as I say, not as I do’ attitude, the life that Jesus looks for is the one fruitful in actions, in love and in legacy.
Lord Jesus, please forgive me for the times I talk the talk but don’t walk the walk. May my actions speak louder than my words. May my life reflect the fruit of the Spirit in me. Amen.
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