THE FRUIT TEST

The Fruit Test                                               Matthew 7:15-20
*“Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit.”* Matthew 7:17

There is a common saying that, “Actions speak louder than words.” A person’s true character shows in what they do and not necessarily in what they say. People’s true colors will eventually come out, no matter how good they are at pretending to be what they are not. 
 
False prophets were prevalent in Jesus’ times and Jesus warned His disciples about them and their pretentious ways. So, when Jesus said, “by their fruit you shall know them,” what did He mean? The works and character of the false prophets will show who they really are. If a prophet tells lies, cheats, defrauds, is selfish, seeks fame, displays worldliness and is unloving, then he is false.
  
Beware of teachers who sound religious but are motivated by money, fame or power. They relegate Jesus Christ and promote themselves to win people’s approval. The test of their calling is in the fruit they bear, not the works they do. Don’t be a victim of false prophets.

Insight: False prophets bear bad fruit that takes the attention off Jesus.

Prayer: Lord God, help me to bear fruit of righteousness that glorifies you alone.

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