A good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit” -Luke 6:43
We have all heard this verse, but how well do we understand its message? Lately, it seems like Christians are getting so caught up with the idea of bearing fruit, they are missing the point altogether.
This act we are called upon to do doesn’t need to be so desperately sought after. Christians needn’t be fearful of incorrectly bearing fruit, nor should it be chased. For, bearing fruit is simple when He is within us.
(Doulos Partners is an non-profit that believes we are called to work together to advance the name of Jesus all over the world. Are you interested in being a part of the cause? Contact us today.)
What Is “Bearing Fruit?”
The answer is both simple and complex. Bearing fruit means you are a Christian representing a changed, saved, life. Because you have been saved by God, you are filled with Him, and in Him you become more Christlike.
As a Christian, you represent a life willing to be lead for Him, rather than for yourself, others or for earthly possessions. Bearing fruit is trusting in His plan, and fearlessly following it, each and every day.
How Do You Bear Fruit?
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, 23 gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law. 24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. 25 Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” Galatians 5:22-25
The way we bear good fruit is quite simple, we surrender ourselves to God. Many things have been left unclear, and we can not possible gain all of the answers, but with faith we can be certain we are not alone, and our best interests are being taken care of.
What, if anything, do we know about Jesus? We know that he was a do-gooder. He was honest, courteous, kind, selfless, and loving. Jesus did not judge others for their differences, but rather, He embraced them with open arms. Jesus did not speak loudly against his enemies. Instead, He prayed for their hearts, and lent out His helping hand, never expecting anything in return.
So, how can we bear fruit? Listen to what’s inside of you. Hear His word and trust in His actions. You bear fruit by being you, as He rests inside. He is our example.
Why Should You Bear Fruit?
For some, bearing fruit means mission work, for others, it means sharing a God-given talent to the world. Some people bear fruit by talking, others by listening.
It’s essential for all Christians to bear fruit, because this is how we show the world who Christ is. He is a million beautiful and unique creations. He is Us. We are Him.
Because we are unique individuals designed in His image, we can better share His word to the masses. By being a diverse army of Christians, we gain more perspectives, we gain more understanding, and we gain a larger capacity to love.
We are called to follow the singular paths He has chosen for us, but each path has a common ground, and that is of love. Let us love one another, for He loves each of us every day.
Learn more on how to keep God at the center of your life.
