August 19, 2024

Matthew 7.20 (NIV)

“Thus by their fruit you will recognize them.”

Good fruit grows from good trees.*

In this verse, and in verse 16 of the same chapter, Jesus warns about false teachers and how to recognize them. He makes it clear that we must be prepared to discern and judge when it comes to false prophets.*

While actions reveal character, we understand that fruit takes time to grow – whether it is good fruit or bad fruit. It is possible for a false prophet to display a “form of godliness” and fool his students for a time. But there are clues to watch for in determining the fruit that will eventually be produced: the teacher’s manner of living; the content of his teaching; and the effect of his teaching.* We are foolish when we don’t consider the source, verify the teaching against Scripture, and observe the results in the lives of the students. 

He that brings forth no fruit, and he that brings forth bad fruit, are both only fit for the fire.*