“ ‘Every Tree Is Known by Its Own Fruit’ ” (Luke 6:44, NKJV)
Has anyone ever asked you if you have received the Holy Spirit? Usually this is a way of discovering if you speak in "tongues." For them, tongues-speaking is the determining factor for whether or not you demonstrate the indwelling of the Spirit. Jesus, though, warns us about looking at certain outward signs and miracles as proof of anything. Read His clear warning in Matthew 7:21-23 (see also Rev. 16:14). Jesus says plainly that undeniable miracles will be performed in Jesus' name, but that does not prove that these people are His faithful followers.
In fact, we are told that in the last days professed followers of Jesus would have a form of godliness but would deny the power thereof (2 Tim. 3:5).
Read 2 Timothy 3:5. How do we see this truth manifested today?
" 'For a good tree does not bear bad fruit, nor does a bad tree bear good fruit. For every tree is known by its own fruit. For men do not gather figs from thorns, nor do they gather grapes from a bramble bush' "(Luke 6:43, 44, NKJV).
Jesus said we can know a tree by the fruit it produces. A person reveals himself or herself not so much by what he or she professes but by what he or she is. The gifts of the Spirit are given to the church for ministry. The fruit of the Spirit is given to the child of God so that his or her life might be changed.
Being a true Christian and bearing good fruit place the emphasis on being. A good actor can play the part of Mahatma Gandhi, but he can never be Mahatma Gandhi. We can look good, sound good, and even appear to do good. But unless the Holy Spirit gives us a new heart, we never can be good.
Dwell more on this distinction between doing good and being good. First, what do we mean by "good"? Second, can a person do good and not be good? Or, can a person be good and not do good? Work through your answers and bring them to class on Sabbath.
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