ABIDING > STRIVING
Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly are ravenous wolves. You will recognize them by their fruits. Are grapes gathered from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? So, every healthy tree bears good fruit, but the diseased tree bears bad fruit. A healthy tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a diseased tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus you will recognize them by their fruits. Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven. On that day many will say to me, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in your name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name?’ And then will I declare to them, ‘I never knew you; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’
Matthew 7:15-23
In Matthew 7:15-23, Jesus emphasizes the importance of discerning true believers from false prophets, warning that not everyone who appears righteous is genuinely following Him. He uses the analogy of trees and their fruit to illustrate that a person’s true nature is revealed by their actions and character. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit.
This passage challenges us to examine our lives and ask ourselves whether we are truly bearing fruit that glorifies God or simply going through the motions of religious activity. For men seeking to grow in their faith, this teaching highlights that being a disciple of Christ is not just about external behavior or performing good deeds. True discipleship is rooted in abiding in Christ, which means maintaining a close, personal relationship with Him. Abiding involves spending time in prayer, studying God’s Word, and engaging in fellowship with other believers. It’s about allowing Christ to shape our thoughts, attitudes, and actions so that our lives naturally produce the fruit of the Spirit - qualities like love, joy, peace, and self-control — that reflect His character.
In the context of discipleship, it’s crucial for men to recognize that the strength to overcome challenges and develop as leaders comes from this intimate connection with Jesus. Many men face pressures and temptations that can pull them away from their faith, but when they are deeply rooted in Christ, they have the resilience and wisdom to stand firm. Abiding in Christ is the foundation that enables men to grow as godly leaders in their homes, workplaces, and communities, bearing fruit that lasts and influences those around them for the Kingdom.
“The best test of a man is his behavior when he is free from temptation.”
C.S. Lewis
Dear Heavenly Father,
Help us to break free from the desire to appear perfect and to be honest about our faults and failures. May we be humble and willing to acknowledge our own shortcomings.
Grant us the courage to focus on our own obedience to You rather than judging others. May we be motivated by love and grace, rather than self-righteousness.
Empower us to live a life of integrity, where our private actions align with our public persona. May our relationship with You be a source of strength and transformation.
In Jesus' name, we pray.