" Judge the Fruit, Not the Motive "

 

Matthew 7:15-20 "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves. Ye shall know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes of thorns, or figs of thistles ? Even so every good tree bringeth forth good fruit; but a corrupt tree bringeth forth evil fruit. A good tree cannot bring forth evil fruit, neither can a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. Every tree that bringeth not forth good fruit is hewn down, and cast into the fire. Wherefore by their fruits ye shall know them."

     When confronted with the "Who are you to judge?" question or accusation, a response we can give is: "I do not know your heart or motives, but I can recognize behavior and beliefs." In other words, "I cannot -- and must not --judge your intent, but I can discern your doctrine and deeds." We notice from today's text that it is possible to observe the "fruit" of those who claim righteousness yet teach error. "Fruit" does not simply entail outward actions; more specifically, it comprises the words and beliefs that come from within. In the Old Testament, false prophets were proclaiming peace to GOD's people while inwardly they were far from HIM (Jeremiah 23:9-40). JESUS condemned the religious leaders of HIS day who performed "good deeds" but who taught error and rejected HIM as MESSIAH (Matthew 6:1-18). Thus, "fruit" is more than just works -- it is creeds and teachings. Many people do "good" things outwardly, but their doctrine is contrary to Scripture. Thus, these "false prophets" are "wolves in sheep's clothing," and JESUS tells believers to judge and beware !

     Also consider 1st.John 4:1-6, which exhorts us to exercise judgment and discernment with regard to our spiritual fellowships. The basis for association or separation lies in the "fruit" of the other person, that is, his or her beliefs or doctrines. Those from whom we must separate may be very pleasant people with many admirable credentials, but they are dangerous to our spiritual well-being if they believe and teach that which is contrary to GOD's WORD (see Jude 1:16-19 pictured above). While we must not judge people's motives, we are to exercise judgment and discernment regarding their beliefs and behavior. MDC

Your servant in CHRIST,

Julie

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