Sep 22, 2023
How do we prove we're
disciples of Jesus?
"My Father is
glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My
disciples." John 15:8 NASB95
We prove our
relationship to Jesus by bearing fruit. But if you read what it
means to bear fruit, you can get differing opinions.
Some talk about the
fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5 which includes love, joy, peace,
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and
self-control. We can always demonstrate more of these. The supply
of the fruit of the Spirit is only limited by the strength of our
relationship to Jesus.
Others think bearing
fruit is leading others to trust Jesus. We actually talk about
helping others move one notch closer to Jesus.
We know from this
verse that when we bear fruit, we glorify the Father; we help
others see him and know him better.
My working definition
for bearing fruit is living a life that can't be explained without
including Jesus.
When an apple shows
up, we know it's an apple tree. When a grape shows up, we know it's
a grape vine. When the evidence of Jesus is present, we know the
person acting is a Jesus follower.
Our job today is to
live our lives following Jesus. In the end, we won't look like
everyone else. We can practice any of our daily habits and expect
Jesus to become a bit more visible to the people around us. Right
now, the Holy Spirit may be giving you an idea that he can use to
glorify God. Don't tell him "No." Rather figure out how you can do
what he asks. You'll experience joy. You'll see the Father
glorified. And you'll prove to be a disciple of Jesus'.