How can church communities support members in bearing good fruit as per Matthew 7:19? Starting with Matthew 7:19 “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.” Rooted in the Gospel - Keep the message of Christ’s saving work central (1 Corinthians 15:3-4). - Regularly proclaim salvation by grace through faith, reminding believers that good fruit flows from a transformed heart (Ephesians 2:8-10). Nourishing Through Sound Teaching - Teach all of Scripture, trusting its completeness and authority (2 Timothy 3:16-17). - Emphasize abiding in Christ, the true Vine, as the source of fruitfulness (John 15:4-5). - Highlight the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22-23) so believers know what good fruit looks like. Intentional Discipleship and Mentoring - Pair mature believers with newer ones (2 Timothy 2:2). - Model personal spiritual disciplines—prayer, Bible study, obedience—so others learn by imitation (Philippians 3:17). Accountability in Love - Create small groups where members lovingly challenge one another to walk worthy of the Gospel (Hebrews 10:24-25). - Practice gentle correction when fruit is lacking (Galatians 6:1; Matthew 18:15-17). - Celebrate visible growth to encourage perseverance (1 Thessalonians 5:11). Cultivating Prayerful Dependence - Schedule corporate prayer focused on spiritual growth, not just physical needs (Colossians 1:9-10). - Encourage fasting and prayer retreats, asking God to prune and refine (John 15:2). Serving Together for Kingdom Impact - Offer varied ministry opportunities so every believer exercises God-given gifts (1 Peter 4:10-11). - Emphasize that fruit often grows through sacrificial service (James 1:27). Guarding Against False Teaching and Worldliness - Test every message by Scripture (Acts 17:11). - Warn against teachings that promise growth apart from repentance and obedience (2 Peter 2:1-3). Practicing Church Discipline When Necessary - If a professing believer persistently bears bad fruit, follow Christ’s steps for restoration (Matthew 18:17). - When discipline is applied, aim for repentance and restored fruitfulness, not shame (2 Corinthians 2:6-8). Celebrating Harvest Seasons - Share testimonies of changed lives (Revelation 12:11). - Commission members who display mature fruit to disciple others, multiplying the harvest (Matthew 28:19-20). Looking to the Final Evaluation - Remind the church that Christ will assess every tree (2 Corinthians 5:10). - Encourage perseverance, knowing that genuine, Spirit-produced fruit endures (Philippians 1:6). By anchoring everything in Christ, teaching truth, fostering accountability, and relying on the Spirit’s power, a church community becomes rich soil where believers consistently bear the good fruit our Lord desires. |
    |