SERMON
BEARING GOOD FRUITS
(A Life Rooted in Christ)
Matthew 7:15-21
According to our reading this morning, Jesus reminds us of the importance of bearing good fruits in our lives as evidence to our faith in Him. Just as a healthy tree produces good fruit, a life rooted in Christ will naturally overflow with righteousness, love, and compassion. Let us explore this vital aspect of our Christian journey and understand how we can bear good fruits that glorify our Heavenly Father.
Jesus warns us to be vigilant about false prophets who do not bear good fruit. They claim to speak on behalf of God, but their intentions are impure and misleading. They often promote false teachings, leading people astray from the path of righteousness. As followers of Christ, we must be discerning and rooted in His Word to identify and avoid such deceivers.
Jesus uses the analogy of a tree and its fruit to help us understand the concept of good fruits. Just as a healthy tree bears fruit that is nourishing, sweet, and beneficial, a life rooted in Christ produces actions and attitudes that are honourable, compassionate, and Christ-like. Good fruits include acts of kindness, forgiveness, love, humility, generosity, and spreading the Gospel to others. These fruits are not merely for our own benefits but also serve as a blessing to those around us. (Fruit of the spirit – Galatians 5:22-23)
Genuine relationship with God leads to the bearing of good fruits. Our faith is not a superficial expression; it is a transformative encounter with the living God. When we truly surrender our lives to Christ, the Holy Spirit works within us, producing good fruits as evidence of our changed hearts. As followers of Jesus, we are called to reflect His character in the world. (John 15:5 – He who abides in Him will bear much fruit)
Jesus highlights the importance of not merely saying, “Lord, Lord,” but also doing the will of the Father. Our intentions and words must align with our actions. It is not enough to profess faith without living it out daily. Our faith must lead to tangible expressions of love, mercy, and compassion for others.
The key to bearing good fruits lies in our connection with Jesus Christ, the true vine. Just as branches draw sustenance from the vine, we draw our strength, wisdom, and grace from our relationship with Him. As we remain connected to Christ through prayer, studying His Word, and seeking His guidance, our lives will bear abundant fruits that honour God and bless those around us.
As followers of Christ, let us strive to bear good fruit, reflecting the character of our Saviour in our thoughts, words, and deeds. May our lives be a testimony to our genuine relationship with God, drawing others closer to Him through the transformative power of His grace.
Let us seek to be faithful disciples, doing the will of our Heavenly Father, and ultimately, to enter into His eternal kingdom.
Rev Can. Joseph Adewale
BEARING GOOD FRUITS
(A Life Rooted in Christ)
Reading: Matthew 7:15-21