In what ways can we "bear fruit" as described in Ezekiel 17:23? Reading the Verse “On the high mountain of Israel I will plant it, and it will bring forth branches, bear fruit, and become a magnificent cedar. Birds of every kind will nest in it; they will find shelter in the shade of its branches.” (Ezekiel 17:23) The Picture Behind the Promise • God Himself does the planting—His initiative and power sustain the tree. • The cedar grows tall, healthy, and fruitful—an image of restored Israel and, by extension, every believer grafted into God’s covenant blessings (Romans 11:17–18). • The birds symbolize nations and people finding refuge, echoing the kingdom picture Jesus draws in Matthew 13:31–32. Rooted and Growing: Key Foundations • New life in Christ: Only those born of the Spirit can bear lasting fruit (John 3:3; 15:4–5). • Firm placement: God sets us “on the high mountain,” lifting us above the shifting soil of the world (Colossians 3:1–3). • Ongoing nourishment: The Word and prayer keep sap flowing (Psalm 1:2–3; Acts 20:32). • Obedient trust: “Whatever He says to you, do it” (John 2:5)—obedience is the natural outgrowth of faith (James 2:17). Bearing Fruit Today: Practical Outworkings 1. Christlike Character • Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control (Galatians 5:22–23). 2. Faithful Witness • Sharing the gospel in word and deed so others “nest” in God’s salvation (Acts 1:8; 2 Corinthians 5:20). 3. Acts of Service • Meeting practical needs—food, shelter, counsel—providing shade for weary souls (Matthew 25:35–40). 4. Discipleship and Mentoring • Extending “branches” that support new believers, teaching them to obey everything Christ commanded (Matthew 28:19–20; 2 Timothy 2:2). 5. Perseverance in Holiness • Remaining distinct from the world while influencing it (Philippians 2:15; 1 Peter 1:15–16). 6. Corporate Worship and Unity • Standing together as one magnificent cedar, displaying God’s glory to onlookers (John 17:21-23; Ephesians 4:3). Branching Out: How Our Fruit Blesses Others • Refuge: People wounded by sin find safety in the gospel we proclaim. • Refreshment: Words seasoned with grace are “apples of gold in settings of silver” (Proverbs 25:11). • Reproduction: Seeds within the fruit multiply, raising up more believers who bear fruit in turn (2 Timothy 2:2). Encouragement to Continue Bearing Fruit • God promises success: “My word…will not return to Me empty” (Isaiah 55:10–11). • The Spirit supplies strength: “It is God who works in you to will and to act” (Philippians 2:13). • Eternal reward awaits: “In due season we will reap, if we do not give up” (Galatians 6:9). |
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