You Will Know Them By Their Fruits
What Fruit is Being Produced?
There are so many people ‘preaching the Word’ today that it can be a little confusing. Some preach nothing but grace, some preach nothing but prosperity, some preach nothing but doom. With so much going on, how can you discern who is truly a messenger of God?
Jesus gave us a way. In the Beatitudes, Jesus spoke on a number of topics. One of those topics was false prophets. You will know them by their fruits.
Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
Matthew 7:20 NKJV
In Matthew 7:15-20, Jesus warns us about false prophets. They will come in sheep’s clothing. They will pretend to be a follower of Jesus. However, He says they will actually be ferocious wolves. Of course, we all know that the wolves will devour the sheep if given the chance. We must be diligent in watching out for these ravenous wolves.
Jesus goes on to say how. If you see a tree with apples growing on it, you know it’s an apple tree. In the same way that fruit is obvious to you, seeing the ‘fruits’ of these so-called prophets will help you discern their true nature. Does it align with the word of God? Are they picking and choosing certain passages and then twisting it for their own purposes? How are they living their life?
A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.
Matthew 7:18 NKJV
Someone could be preaching the word of God, then walking a very different path when they leave the church. If they aren’t willing to change that behavior, stay away. They are quite possibly the ‘bad tree’. You do not want the fruit from this tree.
This is true for all of us. It’s sad to see the comments and images posted on Facebook and other social media by people who say they love the Lord and are His followers. Their mouth is saying one thing but their actions are completely different on a consistent basis.
We all fail at one time or another. But if you are truly walking in the Spirit, you will have conviction and will truly try to change. However, if you don’t see a change or even a willingness to change, be wary.
I Needed to Change
I was this way for quite sometime. I would say one thing, but then do quite the opposite. I was passing along images that were not uplifting, gossiping, and being judgmental. However, the conviction of the Spirit was very strong. I couldn’t ignore it. I was on my knees actually begging God to show me what I was doing wrong..and He did! I was embarrassed and ashamed of my behavior. There was no love for my fellow man.
That was when I started this blog. It keeps me in His word so that I will understand what God wants of me. My heart is completely changed.
Your word I have hidden in my heart,
That I might not sin against You.
Psalm 119:11 NKJV
If you study the word of the Lord, you will keep it in your heart. You will be able to discern the wolves from the sheep. You will be able to clearly see what fruit is being produced. When something doesn’t seem quite right, seek the Lord’s guidance. Be careful of who you choose to follow. False teachings will lead you down the wrong path.
Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them.
Romans 16:17 NKJV
Do not deal with these people at all. Their words tend to poison your mind. I’ve seen many be led astray by the nonsense. We do not want to get caught up in the lies and deceptions. We must always be ready, because we do not know when Jesus will return.
Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Luke 12:40
I pray that you will be able to see these false prophets for who they are. You will know them by their fruits. This applies to anyone in your life. When you’re unsure, use scripture and pray for wisdom.
Prayer for today
Our Father, I pray for wisdom and strength to see the heart of the person. I pray that my heart swells with love for my fellow man. I thank you for Your Spirit that guides me.
Have a blessed day.