Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20; Philippians 3:4-14; Matthew 21:33-46
Introduction
It is the expectation of every farmer that his crops would bear fruit. A plant that does not bear fruit is not fit for the garden, neither is it fit for anything. Producing fruit is to serve the purpose of the Master. In time, the farmer will run out of patience with the plant and will count it as unworthy for his farm, and will cut it off, and replace it with a plant that will bear fruit.
This is the same with us as people God has created for His purpose. If the expected fruit from us is not produced, God will run out of patience and cut us off (Luke 3:9). Join me to explore this profound message of "Producing Fruit", a message deeply rooted in our faith and our commitment to God. Our scripture passages from Exodus, Philippians, and Matthew will guide us on this spiritual journey.
Covenanted for Growth
In the book of Exodus, God reminds us of the Ten Commandments, laying the foundation for a covenant relationship (Exodus 20:1-4, 7-9, 12-20). Just as a vineyard needs care and attention to yield fruit, God's covenant requires our commitment to produce spiritual fruit. It begins with recognizing God as our Creator and the source of all blessings.
The Psalmist calls our attention to the one who produces fruit by saying, "Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the LORD, and on his law he meditates day and night." Psalms 1:1-2
This is a call to receive Jesus Christ as your Lord and Saviour and to righteousness living. This is the new covenant that we have with God through Christ Jesus. This is the covenant to produce fruit. This is what He makes us when we abide in Christ (John 15:4);
"He is like a tree planted by streams of water that yields its fruit in its season, and its leaf does not wither. In all that he does, he prospers."Psalms 1:3
Precious one in Christ, you are covenanted to produce fruit. Today, I call on you to assess your level in this covenant with Christ critically.
Strive for Spiritual Excellence
In Philippians, the apostle Paul writes of his pursuit of excellence in Christ. He speaks of pressing forward, forgetting what lies behind, and straining toward what is ahead (Philippians 3:4-14). This passage reminds us that producing fruit requires perseverance, a willingness to grow, and a hunger for spiritual maturity.
Song: "You never gave a promise that the journey would be easy. Your grace and mercy have brought me thus far..."
The journey to produce fruit is not easy but like Paul says, we need to be resolute, determined, and focused to bring out the best of Christ in us to this perverse dark generation we find ourselves. Beloved, we must strive for spiritual excellence like "Belteshazzar" (Daniel 5:12).
You are Just a Steward
We mostly get so glued to the enjoyment of the gifts the Master has given us as stewards to assume ownership by fair or foul means.
The parable in Matthew 21:33-46 tells of a vineyard owner who expects fruit from his vineyard but is met with resistance from the tenants. This parable illustrates God's patience and the responsibility we have to produce spiritual fruit in our lives. We must not resist God's call but rather embrace it and bear fruit.
We need to sit up and understand that, all the great accomplishments including our failures do not belong to us because we are stewards. The Master is coming to demand His fruit in no time. Therefore, we must cultivate a Christian character and lifestyle to produce fruit for God.
Producing Fruit
1. Prayer: Just as a vineyard needs regular watering and care, our spiritual lives require prayer. Let us commit to daily communication with God.
2. Fertilizing with God's Word: Reading and meditating on the Scriptures enriches our spiritual soil, helping us grow deep and strong and produce fruit.
3. Acts of Love and Service: True fruitfulness is seen in acts of love, kindness, and service to others. Let our faith manifest through our actions. That is production of fruit.
Conclusion
My brothers and sisters in Christ Jesus, let us remember that we are called to be fruitful vineyards in God's garden. As we embrace the covenant, strive for spiritual excellence, and cultivate our lives with prayer, God's Word, and acts of love, we will bear the sweet fruit of faith, hope, and love. May our lives be a testimony to God's grace, and may we be known by the fruit we produce. Amen.
May God bless you all as you continue to nurture your spiritual vineyards and produce the abundant fruit that brings glory to His name.
Shalom aleichem...
