“Fruit Inspection: The Evidence Test”
OPENING PRAYER:
Jesus, shine Your light into our hearts. Help us see ourselves with clarity and hope and lead us to a deeper connection with You.
Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them. Matthew 7:19-20 (NIV)
Jesus is warning that true disciples are recognized not by words or appearance, but by the fruit of their lives.
REFLECT:
Rodney’s image of the lush, leafy branch that bears no fruit is a wake-up call. He shared how, as a young adult, he realized that while he could claim the name “Christian,” his life showed little evidence of transformation. It’s possible to look healthy on the outside—faithful attendance, knowledge, even service—while missing the deeper reality of abiding in Christ.
Jesus’ words aren’t meant to shame, but to invite honesty. Fruit—love, joy, peace, and the like—can’t be manufactured. It is the natural result of staying deeply connected to Jesus. If you see a lack of fruit, don’t cover it up or try harder in your own strength. Instead, let it be an invitation to return to the source—to abide again.
What kind of fruit is your life producing? Let this inspection be a moment of hope, not condemnation—a fresh invitation to let Jesus’ life flow more freely through you.
APPLY:
Ask a trusted friend what fruit they see in your life. Be open to their perspective, and let it shape your prayers and your next steps toward deeper abiding.
I WILL STATEMENT:
I will take one concrete step towards serving, or I will invite someone to serve with me.
CLOSING PRAYER:
Thank You, Jesus, for loving us enough to show us what is true. Graft us ever more closely into Yourself, and let Your fruit be unmistakable in our lives.
PRAYER REQUEST:
Share your prayer request and pray for others.
CONTINUED READING:
This weekend, we talked about taking the next step—and sometimes that step is simply getting started. If you've never served at Pathway, or if it's been a while, we'd love to help you find your place. Just open the Pathway App, tap Get Involved, or visit the website at pathwaychurch.com/volunteer to explore where you could jump in. And if you're already serving, here's your challenge this week: invite someone to serve alongside you. Some of the greatest growth happens when we serve together, so don't keep that opportunity to yourself!