Mind Meld of A Different Kind

MATTHEW 7:15-20

“Beware of false prophets who come disguised as harmless sheep but are really vicious wolves. You can identify them by their fruit, that is, by the way they act. Can you pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? A good tree produces good fruit, and a bad tree produces bad fruit. A good tree can’t produce bad fruit, and a bad tree can’t produce good fruit. So every tree that does not produce good fruit is chopped down and thrown into the fire. Yes, just as you can identify a tree by its fruit, so you can identify people by their actions.

Make me fruity!

Of course Jesus’ words are true. It’s a common sense reminder. But what kinds of actions does he consider good fruit? Since Jesus insists we don’t want to listen to those who do not produce this fruit then we better know what we’re looking for.

Confusion over who we should listen to demonstrates the importance of accurately identifying actions that reflect a “true prophet” – a trustworthy person who builds up rather than destroys. Church leaders have informed me that I was dangerous to their children because I would not preach that drinking a beer was sin. Others have dismissed my spiritual trustworthiness because I view “R” rated movies, read Dan Brown and JK Rowling books, or even not renewed the contract for a church staff member. If these are not actions, or lack of actions, that define good fruit, what are? What should people look for in me or I in them, in order to determine whether or not either of us are dangerous to the other?

The narrow gate verses begin Jesus’ conclusion to his Sermon on the Mount. Using three word pictures, gate, tree, and foundation, Jesus hammers home the point that he and his words are the only truth by which to live. What he taught that day on the Galilean hillside is the good fruit.

The upside down logic of the Beatitudes, the audacious claim that Jesus fulfills the entire Old Testament and then has the right to change things with words like “you’ve heard it said…but I say… ,” loving enemies and growing to perfection in that love – amazing fruit impossible to grow unless Jesus is Lord of my life. Amazing fruit that, should it be growing in any life, renders that person someone worth listening to.

Teacher about good fruit and the Power behind its production, I submit my life to you again today. Make my tree – my life – good. What you teach in this sermon will be the truth that gives shape to my life this Thanksgiving week. May my words and deeds give life rather than take it. - Mike Leamon