Is Your Tree Bearing Fruit?

In the Christian faith, bearing fruit is a significant aspect. This concept is deeply rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ and is often used as a metaphor for the actions and character of a true believer. In the book of Matthew, Jesus states, "By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit" (Matthew 7:16-17). This passage clearly emphasizes the importance of bearing good fruit and the consequences of failing to do so.

Unfortunately, in today's world, we observe a lack of fruit-bearing in various aspects of the Christian community. One of the most concerning issues is the presence of church leaders who hold titles but show no evidence of glorifying God and edifying the body. These leaders may have the right qualifications, titles, and positions, but their actions and character do not align with the teachings of Christ. This situation raises questions about the effectiveness of their leadership and its impact on their followers’ spiritual growth.

The tree that does not bear fruit can be likened to a church leader who fails to fulfill their role of glorifying God and edifying the body. This tree may appear beautiful and full of potential, but it does not produce any fruit. Similarly, a leader may exhibit all the outward signs of being a spiritual guide, but they are not fulfilling their purpose if their actions do not bear fruit. Leaders' primary goal should be to bring glory to God and nurture the spiritual growth of their followers. However, when they do not accomplish this, the entire body of believers suffers.

A critical step for a leader not bearing fruit is examining their heart and motives. Proverbs 4:23 says, "Above all else, guard your heart, for everything you do flows from it." Leaders not bearing fruit should take a step back and reflect on their intentions. Are they serving for their gain or the glory of God? Are they acting to please people or to please God?

Additionally, leaders who lack fruitfulness should seek accountability from their fellow leaders and church members. Proverbs 15:22 states, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.” Leaders struggling to bear fruit may benefit from the guidance and support of wise, mature believers. Through accountability, they can identify areas in their lives that need improvement and work toward producing good fruit. Lastly, unfruitful leaders should humble themselves and seek God’s guidance through prayer and studying His Word. James 4:10 encourages, “Humble yourselves before the Lord, and He will lift you up.” Leaders who acknowledge their shortcomings can find strength and direction through prayer and Bible study.

In light of these points, church leadership must take action when they observe leaders who are not bearing fruit. The first step is to establish a system for evaluating their leaders' spiritual growth and actions. This process should be conducted with love and grace, to help the leader grow and glorify God. If a leader continues to show no evidence of bearing fruit, it may become necessary for church leadership to hold them accountable and provide guidance and support as previously mentioned. If the leader remains unresponsive or reluctant to change, it may be best for church leadership to remove them from their position. While this may appear harsh, it is essential to maintain the integrity and spiritual health of the church.

A tree that does not bear fruit is useless and does not fulfill its purpose. Similarly, a church leader who does not bear fruit fails to meet their role of glorifying God and edifying the body. As leaders, we must remember that our actions and character should align with the teachings of Christ and bring glory to God. If we find ourselves in a position where we are not bearing fruit, we must take the necessary steps to change and seek guidance from God and our fellow believers. As a church community, we must also be vigilant and act when we see leaders who are not bearing fruit, for the sake of the body of believers and the glory of God.