By Tony Turner
The theme for the 2022 Karns vison book is “Bearing Fruit for God,” based on Romans 7:4 (ESV). Jesus specifies the purpose of bearing fruit in John 15:8. This purpose is to glorify God.
What does it mean to bear fruit?
In the context of John 15, one bears fruit by obeying Jesus’ commands, especially the command to love one another. How do we show genuine love for others? Romans 12:9-20 provides some answers to that question. Let love be genuine. Cling to what is good. Have brotherly affection for one another. Show honor to one another. Rejoice with those who rejoice, weep with those who weep. Live in harmony. Do not be haughty. Do not repay evil with evil or seek vengeance.
Another way to bear fruit is to do good works. Jesus said “let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 5:16). Give to the poor, help widows and orphans, reach out to those in need, evangelize the lost. There are many good works to do that bear fruit for God and no excuse for not doing them.
Is the fruit of the spirit evident in you (Galatians 5:22-23)? Can others see love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control in you? If so, you are most certainly bearing fruit for God.
So, are you bearing fruit for God? If not, it is imperative that you start doing so. Jesus warns that those who do not bear fruit God takes away (John 15:2). This person (who does not abide in Christ) is thrown away like a branch and withers; the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned (v 6).
In this new year, resolve to bear fruit for God.
The elders love you and pray for you continually.