“For there is no good tree which produces bad fruit, nor, on the other hand, a bad tree which produces good fruit. 44For each tree is known and identified by its own fruit. For figs are not picked from thorn bushes, nor is a cluster of grapes picked from a briar bush. 45The [intrinsically] good man produces what is good and honorable and moral out of the good treasure [stored] in his heart; and the [intrinsically] evil man produces what is wicked and depraved out of the evil [in his heart]; for his mouth speaks from the overflow of his heart.” Luke 6:43-45 AMP

Is it expected for a Christian to have good fruit in their lives? There is so much misunderstanding today about the application of grace in our lives. Some are saying that since the Bible says we are not justified by our works, there is no need now for the believer to have them! What a misconception of the work of Christ applied to our lives. Jesus clearly taught the opposite. Look at His teaching on this very issue.

Jesus likens the believer to a tree. Trees are birthed from the death of a seed. There must be a starting point and whatever the origin of that seed was will be the fruit that specific tree produces. A tree in and of itself cannot exist without water or the sun. Water cannot get to the tree except its roots are planted in the right soil. Even if the roots are strong, if the water is tainted then the tree will all suffer eventual death. So what can we say?

The seed plated in our hearts was the Word of God. As we grow in the grace and the knowledge if who He is, our roots are growing deeper and deeper allowing more of the Word (water) to feed our life. In due season fruit should be coming forth from our lives that matches the origin of the seed planted! Jesus give us the picture of that result,

“The good man, from his [inner] good treasure, brings out good things; and the evil man, from his [inner] evil treasure, brings out evil things.”

Matthew 12:35 AMP

As we can see in our opening verse, if the Word of God is what the seed was planted in our heart, the natural process of discipleship will bring forth good things for the Kingdom of God! 

“Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good deeds and moral excellence, and [recognize and honor and] glorify your Father who is in heaven.” 

Matthew 5:16 AMP

I essence, our old life was the seed that was planted in the soil of God love, watered by the blood of His Son, and nourished by the Word of God. Our life now should be a reflection of a “new man” when it comes to living and service to God. Grace is not a license to continue to live in sin. While there is forgiveness for our sin, we are now free from the grip of sin so we can make a personal choice NOT TO! 

“12Therefore do not let sin reign in your mortal body so that you obey its lusts and passions. 13Do not go on offering members of your body to sin as instruments of wickedness. But offer yourselves to God [in a decisive act] as those alive [raised] from the dead [to a new life], and your members [all of your abilities–sanctified, set apart] as instruments of righteousness [yielded] to God”

Romans 6:12-13 AMP

God’s grace, together with our surrender to His love, results in our being “fruit-bearing” disciples. We were chosen to serve with joy, however difficult the task. Our lives and work for the Master should radiate joy because we are privileged to be called His children!

Power Prayer for Promise – Fruitfulness

Father, today I ask that the good treasures of my heart would be manifested in my life. (Matthew 12:35) I will not let sin rule in my body, and I refuse to obey its lusts and passions and will offer my body in righteousness as an instrument to You for Your service. (Romans 6:12-13) I chose today to live a life worthy of You and will strive to please You in everything I think, say, and do. I will bear the good fruit of a disciple and I will grow and be strengthened with all power according to Your glorious might at work in my life. (Colossians 1:10-11) Today I receive the work of righteousness and shall be at peace, walk in humility, and rest in the assurance of Your Word. (Isaiah 32:17) In Jesus name…Amen