We heard people saying over and over that most Christians don't behave like true Christians. There's also the debate in the Christian community about what is right and what isn't, mostly from a doctrinal standpoint but the bible clearly states what the requirements are for being a true disciple of Christ. The answer is simple, "when you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples."
So what does it mean then to produce fruit. Christ in his time here on earth likened us to branches stemming from a vine (himself). This means that we are part of him. He is the source of our nourishment. He provides us with everything we need to be productive; to produce fruit. Galatians 5:22 tells us that the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. As a child growing up I always thought that these were plural, however in every version of the bible I've ever read the word fruit is singular. That means that every aspect of that fruit MUST be part of our lives. In other words, if something is missing then our fruit bearing is not complete. That's not to say that you have failed as a Christian, but it means that you still have something to strive for and something to work on.
So back to our original scripture. "When you produce much fruit, you are my true disciples. This brings great glory to my father. When you obey my commandments, you remain in my love, just as I obey my Father's commandments and remain in his love." John 15:8,10
Go out today and follow Christ's commands, be productive and produce fruit!
Joana James - Author of From Redemption to Maturity, Nightmare at Emerald High & Alana and Alyssa's Secret
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