Fruitful Faith & Spiritual Growth
In a world where people wear many masks, how can we tell if someone is genuinely walking in faith? In Matthew 7:15-20, Jesus teaches us that “you will know them by their fruits,” urging caution against false prophets who outwardly appear good but inwardly harbor dangerous intentions. Meanwhile, Galatians 5:22-23 reveals what true spiritual fruit looks like – the attributes that naturally grow in the lives of those who are led by the Spirit. Together, these passages equip us to discern genuine faith and encourage our own growth in Christ. Let’s explore the key traits that reveal the authenticity of a believer.
Recognizing False Prophets - Watch the Fruit, Not the Façade
Matthew 7:15-16, false teachers often appear harmless, “in sheep’s clothing,” yet Jesus warns they are “ravenous wolves.” While appearances can deceive, a person’s actions and attitudes over time reveal their true nature. Just as trees bear specific fruit, genuine faith results in actions that align with God’s character. Watch for the consistent qualities of love, peace, and kindness. False prophets may speak spiritual words, but if they sow division, greed, or manipulation, their actions betray them.
“Do men gather grapes from thornbushes or figs from thistles?” (Matthew 7:16). ”
True Spiritual Fruit & Traits of the Holy Spirit’s Work in Us
Galatians 5:22-23, Paul describes the Fruit of the Spirit – qualities produced in those who walk with God. Unlike superficial traits, these fruits are evidence of an inner transformation.
Love Sacrificial and selfless, this love puts others first and reflects Christ’s love for us.
Joy A deep, abiding joy that persists even in hardship, rooted in the hope we have in God.
Peace Beyond mere calm, this peace is a profound rest in God’s sovereignty, unaffected by external turmoil.
Forbearance (Patience) Enduring trials without complaint, it’s a resilience grounded in trust in God’s timing.
Kindness and Goodness Kindness considers others’ needs, while goodness goes further to actively seek the good of others.
Faithfulness True commitment to God, consistent and unwavering, in both belief and practice.
Gentleness Strength under control, handling others’ hearts with care and respect.
Self-Control Discipline in our thoughts, words, and actions, choosing God’s way over our impulses.
These fruits don’t appear overnight. They’re cultivated over time, requiring nurture and commitment to God’s Word.
Contrasts Between Good and Bad Trees: Discerning True Faith from Pretense
Matthew 7:17-20, Jesus explains that a “good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.” True disciples will naturally reflect God’s character because they’re deeply rooted in Him. Consistent, Spirit-led fruit is a clear indicator of a good tree. People who bear good fruit naturally encourage peace, foster unity, and reflect God’s love. Selfish ambition, dishonesty, and divisiveness are signs of a “bad tree,” revealing a person whose motives are disconnected from God’s truth. Christ warns that failure to bear good fruit has eternal consequences.
“Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
How to Cultivate the Fruits of the Spirit in Your Own Life
To grow these fruits in our lives, we must remain connected to Christ, like a branch attached to the vine. The process of cultivating these traits requires intentional daily practices:
Prayer and Surrender. Pray for God’s Spirit to work in you, surrendering areas where you struggle.
Study God’s Word. By internalizing Scripture, you align your mind and heart with God’s values.
Practice in Relationships. Test these fruits in your interactions with others – show kindness, respond with patience, and choose self-control.
Community and Accountability. Surround yourself with fellow believers who can support and encourage you to bear good fruit.
Knowing Them – And Ourselves – By Our Fruits
Discerning genuine faith from superficial appearances may feel daunting, but Jesus provides us with a straightforward measure: examine the fruit. True spiritual growth is evident in the Fruits of the Spirit, a clear contrast to the “bad fruit” of self-serving intentions. For each of us, this standard is both a guide for recognizing true faith in others and a mirror for assessing our own spiritual growth. As we seek to be trees that bear good fruit, let’s rely on the Holy Spirit to nurture love, joy, peace, and all the qualities that point to God.
Leave a comment and share which Fruit of the Spirit you’re focusing on cultivating.