Introduction: 1. The Bible contains many passages
that relate to "bearing fruit."
2. Studying these verses will help
us better understand the instruction that Jesus gave to His followers in John
15:8. Discussion:
I.
VERSES FROM
THE OLD TESTAMENT
A. "Being fruitful" is
first mentioned in connection with populating the earth.
1. Genesis 1:27-28
2. Genesis 8:15-17
3. Genesis 9:1, 7
B. A tree bearing fruit illustrates
the blessing of a righteous person (Psalm 1:1-3).
II.
VERSES FROM
THE GOSPELS
A. Bearing the right kind of fruit
is an indication that a person has repented (Matthew 3:8).
B. Trees that do not bear good fruit
will be burned (Matthew 3:10).
C. The fruit produced by a tree is
an indication of the true nature of the tree (Luke 6:43-45).
D. The fruit produced by various
types of soil identify the true nature of the soils (Luke 8:8, 15).
E. Certain obstacles to bearing
fruit are listed in Luke 8:14.
F. Even though the Lord is patient,
He expects His followers to bear fruit (Luke 13:6-9).
G. Jesus cursed a fig tree because
it did not bear fruit (Matthew 21:18-20).
III.
VERSES FROM
THE EPISTLES
A. Bearing "the fruit of the Spirit" is an indication that one is
walking in "light" (Ephesians
5:8-10).
B. Hearing the Gospel correctly
results in "bringing forth fruit" (Colossians 1:5-6).
C.
Hebrews 6:4-6 is often misunderstood, but the
illustration from fruit bearing in vs.7-8 helps to explain the point being
made. Conclusion:
1. The Bible has much to say about
bearing fruit.
2. Let us benefit from the
principles revealed in the Bible to glorify God and show that we are the Lord's disciples (John 15:8).
