03/26/2023
March 2023 Devotion
Can you dig it?
Matthew 7:15-20
15 “Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. 16 You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles? 17 Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. 18 A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. 19 Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Therefore by their fruits you will know them.”
Here Jesus tells His followers to be aware of false prophets. This can refer to those who claim to be "prophets" or leaders. It also applies in general to those who make false religion claims. These people will have the appearance of innocence or brotherhood, yet in fruit they are as deceptive and dangerous as hungry wolves wearing sheep's clothing.
A prophet's character and behavior (his fruits) indicate whether he is true or false. Other New Testament texts insist that a teacher's doctrine must be examined. True disciples bear the fruit of good works; and this confirms their identity as Jesus' disciples.
Those who are in Christ are distinguished from unbelievers and that they have been gifted with the Holy Spirit, enabling them to bear fruit. In other words, their works demonstrate the change of sanctification that is at work in their hearts.
We can usually tell if someone is a Christian by their fruits. How do they represent Christ? Can you see Christ in their day to day walk? Have you ever planted any type of flower, vegetable, or fruit? If so, then that particular thing is what you are expecting. Right? If you plant tomato seeds, you won't get apples, right? Even though they look similar? The same is with our walk. People may look the same, yet live a different lifestyle than they portray. We have to know and understand that when we accept Christ, something was planted in us. So we have to make sure that when God planted that seed in us, we must produce the "fruit" He expects. There has to be change within us or we can make the whole plant/tree rot.
If I were to claim to be a Christian, but run around with a foul mouth,cheating on your spouse, being a drunk, doing/selling drugs, stealing, hurting people, or acting a fool, how well would others see Jesus in me? How will they see my good fruits if I’m only producing the bad? Let others see your good fruits.
Godbleshya, Rev Kev
