PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Luke 3:1-9
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“Produce fruit in keeping with repentance.” (Luke 3:8)
Apparently some people wanted baptism for a public display.
Already confident as Abraham’s children, they wanted to appear pious.
John sees through their charade and calls them on their lack of repentance.
‘Demonstrate how sorry you really are, and how much you want to change!’
I sense the Lord challenging me with these words.
I have come to know my need for forgiveness and help.
Sin shows itself in my heart and life in subtle but serious ways.
Going to church, reading my bible, receiving communion… these are symbols.
They point to something deeper that the Lord wants to work on in me.
If the Spirit is working in me, there should be some evidence.
I won’t suddenly start producing all the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23).
But little shoots of goodness should be seen, small signs towards full bloom.
Am I producing more love, joy, peace, or whatever fruit needs to grow in me?
Am I just putting on a show, or is there evidence that I am changing?
PRAYER
Lord, you are at work me in me, and you are expecting to see something! Help me to do more that put on a good show; help me to produce fruit in keeping with repentance.
John the Baptist preached the good news that would be for all people – not just for the children of Israel – in fact we can become children of Abraham even if our origins are not: “For I tell you that out of these stones God can raise up children for Abraham.” He announced the opening of the door for all people. But it was God’s intention all along. He wanted his chosen people to be a nation of priests – to show the proper way to draw near to God – to not let sin and disobedience stand in the way. Israel was to be the example and lead the way – away from idolatry and sinful living. As followers of the Jesus – we need to live the Jesus way so that more people can come to him – not to close doors but open them. That means we need to get out there too – not live protected lives but rather lives of service! God is ready to change stones!!
Produce fruit.
Produce the fruit of the Spirit.
My words and deeds need to show/give evidence of my faith.
My daily living can only do that when I dress each day with the armour of God.
Good fruit.
Apples don’t grow on pear trees
Apples don’t grow on pear trees
Apples don’t grow on pear trees
No apples there! it only grows pears
Bananas don’t grow on plum trees
Bananas don’t grow on plum trees
Bananas don’t grow on plum trees
No ‘nanas come! They only grow plums.
Your heart is where the words of your mouth grow
Your mouth is where the thoughts of your heart go
Jesus, change our hearts to bear,
To bear good fruit