A Word from the Vine No. 529: Bearing Fruit as Evidence of Repentance

Hello, ladies and gentlemen! Welcome back to A Word from the Vine. I'm Pastor Loren. In our previous episodes, we discussed the urgency of repentance and the parable of the fig tree. Today, we'll explore what it means to bear fruit as evidence of genuine repentance. Let's jump in.

To start, let's recap briefly. In our first episode of this short series, we talked about the need for repentance, using the examples of the Galileans killed by Pilate and the people who died when the tower of Siloam fell. Jesus emphasized that we all need to repent, regardless of our circumstances.

In our second episode, we examined the parable of the fig tree. We learned that the fig tree's lack of fruit symbolizes a lack of repentance and spiritual growth. God, represented by the owner of the vineyard, is patient and gives us time to bear fruit, but this patience is not infinite.

Now, let's move forward and discuss what it means to bear fruit. We'll read from John 15:1-8 (ESV) and Galatians 5:22-23 (ESV):

John 15:1-8: "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples."

Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."

Bearing fruit is evidence of genuine repentance and transformation. It's not enough to simply say we repent; our lives must show it through the fruits we produce. Jesus tells us that we must abide in Him to bear fruit. Without Him, we can do nothing. The fruits of the Spirit listed in Galatians are clear indicators of a life transformed by repentance and faith.

Think about your own life. Are you producing the fruits of the Spirit—love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control? These are the signs of a life that is truly abiding in Christ and reflecting genuine repentance. If we find ourselves lacking in these areas, it's a call to deepen our relationship with Jesus and allow His Spirit to work in us.

Thank you for joining me today on A Word from the Vine. As we reflect on the importance of bearing fruit, let's strive to live lives that demonstrate our repentance and commitment to God. Let's close with a prayer.

Heavenly Father, thank You for Your Word and the lessons we have learned today. Help us to abide in You and produce the fruits of the Spirit in our lives. Guide us in our journey of repentance and spiritual growth. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

In our next episode, we'll discuss practical steps to live a life of repentance and fruitfulness. Until then, may God bless you and keep you.