By Your Fruits, We Know Your Tree
Rev. Tetteh-Annor Larbi | June 3, 2024 | John 10:31-39
KEY VERSE:
³⁷ If I do not do the works of My Father, do not believe Me; ³⁸ but if I do, though you do not believe Me, believe the works, that you may know and believe that the Father is in Me and I in Him. John 10:37-38 (NKJV)
MESSAGE:
In John 10:31-39, the tension between Jesus and the Jewish leaders escalates as they attempt to stone Him for blasphemy, accusing Him of claiming to be God. Jesus responds by pointing to the works He has done in His Father’s name, saying, "If I am not doing the works of my Father, then do not believe me; but if I do them, even though you do not believe me, believe the works, that you may know and understand that the Father is in me and I am in the Father" (John 10:37-38). Here, Jesus highlights a profound principle: the authenticity of one's identity and mission is revealed by their actions—by their fruits, the tree is known.
The works Jesus performed were undeniable evidence of His divine nature and mission. Healing the sick, giving sight to the blind, and raising the dead were not just miracles; they were manifestations of God’s kingdom and character through Him. These fruits bore witness to His unity with the Father, making it clear that He was indeed sent by God. This principle applies to us as well. Our actions, behaviours, and the impact we have on others serve as tangible evidence of our relationship with God. When we live out our faith through love, kindness, and service, we reflect the nature of Christ, making it clear to others who we are. As we remain connected to Jesus, the true vine, our lives will produce fruits that testify to our faith and point others to the reality of God’s love and power. By our fruits, others will know the tree, and through our lives, they will see the evidence of God's grace and truth.
FEET AND HANDS FOR THE MESSAGE:
Examine the fruits of your life. Do your actions align with the teachings and character of Jesus? Are you known for your love, compassion, and integrity? Just as a healthy tree produces good fruit, a life rooted in Christ will naturally bear positive, godly fruit. Allow the Holy Spirit to work through you, transforming you from the inside out.
PRAYER:
Abba Father, you are my source and my strength. Help me to reflect your glory and love in the way I live. In Jesus’ name, I pray. Amen.
THERE SHALL BE SHOWERS OF BLESSING.
SHOWERS! BLESSINGS!!
DAILY word study: WORKS
The Greek word for "works" in our Key Verse is "ἔργα" (erga), which generally means deeds, actions, or tasks.
In the context of John 10:37-38, "works" specifically refer to the miraculous deeds and actions performed by Jesus, which serve as evidence of His divine mission and unity with the Father. In John 10:37-38, Jesus emphasizes the significance of His works as a testimony to His divine authority and relationship with the Father. Despite scepticism from some observers, Jesus points to His miraculous works as undeniable evidence of His divine mission. This passage highlights that the works Jesus performed were not merely acts of compassion but also served to reveal His divine nature and authenticate His claim as the Son of God. Theologically, this underscores the importance of faith being rooted in both Jesus' words and His actions, which consistently align with the Father's will.
Reflections:
Do you recognize the works of Jesus in your life and the world around you? Reflect on how Jesus’ miraculous deeds serve as a testament to His divine authority and presence. How can acknowledging His works deepen your faith and understanding of His relationship with the Father? Consider how you can witness and testify to the works of Jesus in your own life, strengthening your belief and sharing His message with others.
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