Matthew 7:17-20
[17] Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. [18] A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. [19] Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. [20] Therefore by their fruits you will know them.
Earlier this month while discussing the qualifications of elders, it was mentioned that all Christians should possess those same characteristics as found in 1 Tim. 3:1-13 and Tit. 1:5-9.
Granted, not all Christians will bear the characteristic of being the, "husband of one wife." For example: I know many women who are faithful Christians, and contrary to what President Obama and countless others say, women cannot marry women and be pleasing to God. Also, not all Christians decide to get married, does that make that person less of a Christian? Certainly not, Paul told those in Corinth that it is good to remain single (cf. 1 Cor. 7:8). Neither will all Christians bear the characteristic of having faithful children.
However, as Christians we should strive to be blameless. This does not mean that we will never do anything wrong. Paul told the Romans that all have sinned and have fallen short of the glory of God (cf. Rom. 3:23). However, luckily we can confess our sins and walk in the light and God who is faithful and just will forgive us (cf. 1 Jn. 1:7-9). Then, though our sins be as scarlet, they shall be as white as snow (cf. Isa. 1:18).
As Christians, we should also strive to be vigilant. Why? Because "our adversary the devil walks about like a roaring lion, seeking whom he may devour." That's right, Satan does not care for us! He merely wants to devour us! Therefore we ought have the desire to serve the Lord who loves us (cf. Jn. 3:16; Rom. 5:8).
We could go on through the remaining qualifications of elders and consider how each applies to the Christian life, but rather lets just ask the question, "What kind of fruit do we bear?"
Matthew 5:14-16
[14] You are the light of the world. A city that is set on a hill cannot be hidden. [15] Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it gives light to all who are in the house. [16] Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.
Scriptures taken from the New King James Version
