True Fruit

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it, that it may bear more fruit....By this is My Father glorified, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples.” John 15:1-2, 8

One morning during His final week of earthly ministry, Jesus spotted a fig tree on His way to Jerusalem. He went to gather fruit, but the tree was barren.

To the shock of His disciples, Christ pronounced a judgement over the tree, and at once the tree withered and died. (Matt. 21:18-20) It was the normal season for this tree to bear fruit, yet it had none.

Jesus used the fig tree to expose the hypocrisy of the Jewish leaders. Just as the fig tree had leaves - indicating its ability to bear fruit - the Jewish leaders also displayed an outward appearance of religion. However, they lacked the true fruit of faith in Christ and therefore, bore no spiritual fruit.

Many people today are in this same position. They go to church and listen to sermons but lack true spiritual fruit. Jesus told His disciples if they would remain in Him and follow His commandments, they would bear fruit that would last. The fruit He spoke of is not something we create. It only comes as a result of abiding in Jesus Christ.

When we abide in Him, the natural overflow of our lives will automatically radiate the fruit of His Spirit - love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, gentleness, faithfulness, goodness, and self-control - to others.