Memory verse: Jn.15: 16
Becoming a Christian can be compared with a student who is pursuing a carrier with the determination to be great in the future. As soon as he begins schooling, a determined student would never give up until he has achieved his aim. No matter the responsibilities and sacrifices that such a cause might demand. As Christians, we should therefore understand the responsibilities that our confession lays upon us to live up our calling in Christ. This is what we mean by “BEARING FRUIT”. Col.1:9-10. Phil.1:9-11.
WHAT KIND OF FRUIT IS CHRISTIANS EXPECTED TO BEAR? The statement of Jesus in Mtt.7:15-21 suggests that we have two kinds of trees, a GOOD TREE and a BAD TREE. The Lord explains that the Christian is the good tree and he is expected of God to bear good fruit. The following is the fruit that God expect all His children to bear. Gal.5: 22-23. Matt.5:13-16.
LOVE: Unconditional likeness for an object or to think about well being of others.1Cor.13:4-7. Love is the very nature and essence of God. No one can bear this fruit outside God. 1Jn.4: 7-8.
JOY: A calm delight; a cheerful heart or gladness that comes as a result of believing in Jesus as your personal Lord and Saviour. Neh.8:10.
PEACE: The state of quietness, security and confidence toward God in the midst of storms or trials of life. Ps. 27:3. Is.26:3. Phil.4:7
LONG SUFFERING: To bear long with the offence, injury or provocation of others without resentment. Col.3: 12-13.
GENTLENESS: To be kind, good-tempered, courteous and refined in character and conduct. 2Tim.2: 24-26.GOODNESS: To be full of virtue, generous and Godlike in life and behaviour. Ps.31: 19. Mtt.5: 16.
FAITH: A principle of absolute inward confidence, assurance and trust in God and His word. Rom.4: 16-21. This is the kind of faith that makes you faithful.
MEEKNESS: Self control; ability to surfer injury with no feeling of revenge. Rom.12: 19-21.
TEMPERANCE: Self control in appetites and every passionate drive. 1Cor.9: 25.
THE IMPORTANCE OF BEARING FRUIT
It proofs our profession of faith. Mtt.3: 8. Jam.2: 17
It sets believers apart to serve God with all that is in them, contrary to mere lip service. Mtt.15: 7-8. Jn.15: 8.
It guarantees answers to prayer. Jn.15: 16.CENTRAL TRUTH: Fruit bearing is a sign of true sonship. Eph.5: 1.
