Known By The Fruit!

A fruit tree. What makes it significant? Is it where it has been planted? Is it how strong and tall it looks? Is it simply because it is standing among quality fruit trees? Is it because of the claim of whose orchard it is in? Is it not rather the character of its own fruit that tells us something about the goodness of tree? Is that not what Jesus declared to be true with regard to a life as well? (i.e. Matthew 7:15-20)

We may have the privilege of growing up in a Christian home. We may be seen to be a regular attender of church services. It is possible to be noted for generously supporting the work of the church with our money. We may even focus on the fact we have been immersed into Christ. However, though all of that is good and proper, what does the fruit of our LIFE GENUINELY CONVEY?

As John the Baptist was preparing the way for Christ’s ministry -- announcing the need for repentance in view of the kingdom being close at hand -- people from all walks of life came to him for baptism. Among these were even some of the Jewish leaders. A good thing, right? However, why were they coming and what would their LIFE REVEAL?

We read…
“(7) But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees coming for baptism, he said to them, ‘You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the wrath to come? (8) BEAR FRUIT IN KEEPING WITH REPENTANCE. (9) And do not presume to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father,’ for I tell you, God is able from these stones to raise up children for Abraham. (10) Even now the axe is laid to the root of the trees. Every tree therefore that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.’” ( Matthew 3:7-10 ESV)

John focused away from their heritage to have them seriously consider the essence of their individual lives. Were they open to changes that needed to be made? Were they truly submissive to the Will of God even though it was His commands they claimed to teach? Were they coming only because it seemed to be the thing to do or were they GENUINELY ready to make the changes necessary that would make their lives compatible with the coming kingdom of Christ?

How about us? Have we merely focused on “religious” activity and being numbered among those who gather for worship or is our life in a continual STATE OF BECOMING what Christ would have us to be as a member of His body? To be in His body means we must recognize His authority as the Head of it and therefore surrender our will to His! May the fruit of GENUINENESS become MORE AND MORE EVIDENT in our daily life as we seek for the essence of our Lord to take over every aspect of our being.

Have a great day BEING RAISED UP BY GOD’S WILL TO BE HIS CHILD!
Carl

See other teEn-MAIL on Character