Jesus: “In Matthew 7:16, I said, ‘Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles?’ This is part of a larger teaching about discernment, especially in recognizing true from false prophets, and more broadly, the genuine from the counterfeit in people’s lives.”
Peter: “Lord, how can we apply this idea of ‘fruits’ in our daily lives?”
Jesus: “Peter, ‘fruits’ refer to the outcomes or evidences of a person’s life—how they act, what they prioritize, and the impact they have on others. By observing these ‘fruits,’ you can discern the nature of their relationship with God. It’s about looking beyond words to see whether someone’s life truly aligns with God’s ways.”
John: “So, it’s like saying actions speak louder than words?”
Jesus: “Exactly, John. A person’s actions—how they love, serve, and live—reveal the truth of their heart more than just their words. True faith in God is reflected in the way someone lives their life, in love, righteousness, and truth.”
Andrew: “Does this mean we should be constantly judging others, scrutinizing their actions?”
Jesus: “Andrew, it’s not about judgment in the sense of condemnation but about discernment in the sense of wisdom and understanding. It’s recognizing the essence of a person’s character and the source of their actions. This discernment helps you to navigate relationships and to choose influences wisely.”
James, son of Zebedee: “But what about ourselves? How do we ensure that our own ‘fruits’ are good?”
Jesus: “James, that’s an important reflection. Examine your own life in the light of God’s Word. Stay connected to me, as a branch to the vine, for apart from me you can do nothing. When you live in relationship with me, your life will naturally bear good fruit—fruits of the Spirit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.”
Philip: “Lord, can ‘fruits’ change over time? Can someone who once bore bad fruit start to bear good fruit?”
Jesus: “Philip, with God, transformation is always possible. When someone turns to me, repents, and begins to live according to God’s ways, their life will indeed start to bear good fruit. This is a powerful testimony to God’s grace and power to change lives.”
Bartholomew: “It seems then, our lives are like gardens that need tending.”
Jesus: “A fitting analogy, Bartholomew. Tend to your spiritual garden with prayer, Scripture, fellowship, and obedience to God. Cultivate the soil of your heart with humility and receptivity to the Holy Spirit. As you do, you will see the fruits of righteousness grow in your life.”
Matthew: “This teaching helps us to be mindful of the influence we have on others and the kind of fruit we’re producing.”
Jesus: “Indeed, Matthew. Your life is a witness to your faith. Strive to live in such a way that others see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven. Let your life be marked by the fruit that reflects God’s character.”
Thomas: “Sometimes it’s hard to know the kind of fruit we’re bearing. How can we be sure?”
Jesus: “Thomas, regularly reflect on your actions, thoughts, and motivations in prayer. Ask God to reveal areas where growth is needed. Seek the counsel and feedback of trusted believers who can speak into your life. In this way, you can become more aware of the fruit your life is bearing.”
Simon the Zealot: “It’s a continuous journey then, growing and producing fruit that honors God.”
Jesus: “Exactly, Simon. It’s a lifelong journey of growth and transformation. Remain in me, and I in you, and you will bear much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. Trust in my leading and lean on my strength, and you will flourish in every season of life.”
