fruitful – La Vista Church of Christ

Harvesting the Fruit of His Spirit

Jeffrey Hamilton — Fri, 13 Feb 2026 19:14:19 +0000

by Randall Caselman

When Jesus genuinely, truly comes into our lives, things change. Opening our hearts to His presence means we’ll never be the same.

Go with me to a well outside the city of Sychar. Jesus, tired from the journey, sat down by the well. A Samaritan woman came. She and Jesus struck up a conversation about religion, and her life was never the same. This woman evidently gave up her sinful ways and began to tell her friends and neighbors about her encounter with Jesus. This impressed them, and many came to believe in Him. Her change, her testimony, led to their salvation.

Paul gives us insight into what happens when Jesus comes to make His home in our hearts when he wrote: “The fruit of the Spirit [The result of opening our hearts to Jesus] is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control… Since we live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22,25). No wonder Paul is found saying, “Christ in you, the hope of Glory” (Colossians 1:27).

Well, how? How do we know we have Christ in our hearts? Only if we are harvesting the fruit of the Spirit of Him who lives in us!

Love

Love is an indication that we have the spirit of Jesus in us, that He is living in our hearts. We must not argue this point because this is exactly what John says: “We also ought to love one another. No one has ever seen God; but if we love one another, God lives in us and His love is made complete in us… Since God so loved us, we also ought to love one another” (I John 4:11-12, 21)

When Jesus got ready to paint a picture of love, He painted a word picture of a shepherd braving the wilds for a lost sheep; a father embracing, in total acceptance, a prodigal son who came home. Jesus gives us an everyday application of love when He said, “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.”

Joy

Joy comes when we are the person we know we ought to be. Joy is the result of obedience. Joy is feeling good because we are guiltless, forgiven, heaven-bound people. Joy is knowing that God is our Father, that He is in control, working things out to our benefit, to our good and betterment. Joy springs from the spirit of Jesus living within us.

Peace

Jesus is spoken of as being the “Prince of Peace” (Isaiah 9:6). He brings us peace with God because “in Him sins are forgiven” (Acts 10:43), peace with others because we treat them as brothers. I think Paul tells us how best to gain such peace: “place the interest of others before that of your own and do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit" (Philippians 2:3-4). "But as far as it depends on you, live at peace with everyone” (Romans 12:18). Jesus brings us peace within because we know we are right with God, and like David, He will shepherd us through every situation: “I will be with you always” (Matthew 28:20). “I will never leave you, never forsake you” (Hebrews 13:5). Know Jesus, know peace!

Patience

The Greek word translated as "patience" has no exact English equivalent and is usually rendered as "long-suffering" in the King James. It literally means to be long-tempered. It speaks of our ability to press on in the face of difficult people and circumstances. Like Jesus, we must keep on keeping on in the face of untimely interruptions, criticism, and even when harsh words are spoken. Peter said this about the spirit of Jesus: “When they hurled insults at Him, He did not retaliate. When He suffered, He made no threats. Instead, he entrusted Himself to God who judges justly” (I Peter 2:23).

Goodness

Those who have Jesus in their heart are just plain good. Goodness is the result of good thinking. Paul indicates we are to think about things that are true, noble, just, pure, lovely, things of good report, virtuous, and praiseworthy. We must let go of ugly thinking!

Faithfulness

Faith is a trust in God, trusting Him for continual forgiveness and salvation. Faithfulness is obedience, fidelity, loyalty to His commands. Faithfulness is being right and doing right. It is by being and doing right that we are justified.

Gentleness

Gentleness is meekness in our King James. The world says, "Be tough, be a John Wayne, be like Rambo." The Bible tells us to be gentle, as Jesus was. Gentleness is being kind and loving to others even when they mistreat and abuse us. Gentleness in turning the other cheek.

Self-Control

I think the idea here is moderation, self-restraint. Like Jesus, we are to subdue and control our emotions and become masters of our passions and desires. Scripture tells us: “Those who belong to Jesus have crucified the sinful nature with its passions and desires” (Galatians 5:24).

May we, like Paul, be able to say: “It is no longer I, but Christ who lives in me” (Galatians 2:20). Amen?

Is There Meaning to My Life?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sun, 22 Jun 2025 18:25:28 +0000

https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2023/07/Is-There-Meaning-to-My-Life-1.mp3

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by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

Text: Job 14

I. What will have changed because you have lived?

A. People have longed wondered what the meaning of life is, but I think it more important to consider what meaning there is in your life.

II. What is your life?

A. Perhaps a strange beginning to the question.

B. Your life on this world is brief - James 4:13-14

1. Just traveling through, like a shadow, and without hope in this life - I Chronicles 29:14-15

a. We don’t own anything. What we have is borrowed.

b. There is no expectation of continuing on in this world. We understand that we will die. Charlton Heston once wrote, “The world is a tough place. You’re never going to get out of it alive.”

2. It goes by quickly - Job 9:25-26

3. It lasts only a little while - Job 14:1-2

C. Your life was given to you

1. God made you and I - Psalms 100:3

2. Fashioned by God - Psalms 119:73

3. All souls, all life, belongs to God - Ezekiel 18:4

4. It was fashioned for a good purpose - Ephesians 2:10

III. Why Are You Here?

A. Is it to do as you please?

1. Such pursuits never last beyond the doing - Ecclesiastes 2:10-11

2. They tend to be destructive because the focus is only on self -

B. Is it to personally gain? Wealth, possessions, land, education, etc. - Isaiah 56:11

1. But things have a habit of disappearing - Proverbs 23:5

2. Focus on gain tends to harm others - Jeremiah 5:28

3. And it harms the one pursuing - I Timothy 6:10

4. It can even be deadly - Proverbs 1:19

C. Is it to change the world?

1. But the world cannot be changed - Ecclesiastes 1:14-15; 7:13

2. Things like poverty and world hunger will never be eradicated - Mark 14:7

D. Is it to provide for your descendants?

1. Such often leaves no enjoyment for the one gaining - Ecclesiastes 6:1-2

2. You have no idea if the one you provide for deserves it - Ecclesiastes 2:18-19

E. You’re here to love - Matthew 22:37-40

1. It is not something learned from the physical world. From the world, we don’t know whether to expect love or hate - Ecclesiastes 9:1

2. Love is learned from our Maker - I John 4:19

IV. Why God Put You Here

A. To glorify Him - Isaiah 43:7

B. To serve Him - Ecclesiastes 12:13-14

C. Jesus understood. There is work to do while we are here - John 9:4-5

V. What Gives Meaning to My Life?

A. Contented enjoyment - Ecclesiastes 2:24-26

1. Even when times are difficult and when times are good - Philippians 4:11-13

B. Helping others - Galatians 6:9-10

1. Even when it isn’t appreciated - Luke 6:27-35

2. It is not in vain - I Corinthians 15:58

C. Leave a legacy - Revelation 14:13

1. May people be pleased to have known you - Proverbs 10:7

2. That even those who despise you, still glorify God for your being there - I Peter 2:12

3. Psalm 112:6 - People might forget, but ...

4. God doesn’t forget what we’ve done - Hebrews 6:10-11

D. Leave fruit - John 15:8; Matthew 28:18-20

1. Others who shine out - Philippians 2:14-16

2. A joy to have others join you - I Thessalonians 2:19-20

E. Live a life that has been well lived in service to your king

Evangelism, Converts, and Bearing Fruit

Jeffrey Hamilton — Tue, 05 Nov 2024 16:38:13 +0000

by Andy Sochor

“Do you not say, ‘There are yet four months, and then comes the harvest’? Behold, I say to you, lift up your eyes and look at the fields, that they are white for harvest. Already he who reaps is receiving wages and is gathering fruit for life eternal; so that he who sows and he who reaps may rejoice together” (John 4:35-36).

“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit” (John 15:1-2).

The Bible talks about the importance of bearing fruit in many different passages. While there are many ways in which we bear fruit as Christians, it is common to connect this to the work of evangelism. The following statement can represent this idea:

Evangelism + Conversions = Bearing Fruit

According to this idea, if we engage in evangelism and convert souls to Christ, we are bearing fruit. The opposite of this would be that if we are not converting souls to Christ, then we are not bearing fruit. If this is the case, then the passage above which describes the Father taking away “every branch…that does not bear fruit” (John 15:2) would seem to indicate that we are not being faithful to the Lord if we are not making converts.

However, if there are no converts over a period of time, does that necessarily mean we are not bearing fruit? If we are not bearing fruit in this way, does that mean that we (either as individuals or as local churches) are wrong or are unfaithful? If so, is the solution to pressure or compel brethren to engage in the work of evangelism?

It might seem like the answer to that last question should be “yes.” If we see no conversions, it can be tempting to assume that brethren are not bearing fruit because they are not evangelizing. I have seen some brethren seem to make this assumption and do more than just encourage but strongly pressure—almost to the point of compulsion—their brethren to be more active in evangelism.

However, there are some crucial points that we need to consider.

It is possible to engage in evangelism faithfully and have no converts. Noah was “a preacher of righteousness” (II Peter 2:5), yet no one outside his family was saved. The same thing could happen today.
We are responsible for planting and watering the seed of God’s word in the hearts of others, but God will give the increase (I Corinthians 3:6). Therefore, we are to focus on the work, not the results. This is why Paul said, “For Christ did not send me to baptize, but to preach the gospel…” (I Corinthians 1:17). He needed to focus on the work (preaching) and realize that the results (baptisms/conversions) were not in his control.
We can and must bear fruit whether anyone else is converted or not. This is done by developing a certain character – the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23) – and by “bearing fruit in every good work” (Colossians 1:10).
If a plant does not bear fruit, it is because it is unhealthy. Bearing fruit is natural. Therefore, if we as Christians are not bearing fruit, then it means that we are not spiritually healthy. When it comes to bearing fruit in the work of evangelism, if the reason we are not converting souls to Christ is because we are not engaged in the work of evangelism (not because we are spreading the gospel but people are uninterested – see point #1), then we need to get back to focusing on that work (cf. I Corinthians 1:17; 3:6). This is not done by compulsory evangelism, but by fixing whatever is spiritually unhealthy in our lives. Unhealthy Christians being compelled to evangelize is not a recipe for success. When the Hebrew writer addressed those who “ought to be teachers” (Hebrews 5:12) but were not, he did not pressure them into teaching anyway; instead, he instructed them to grow in their spiritual maturity (Hebrews 5:13-14). This is the solution today – not by pressuring brethren to teach others when they are not ready, willing, or able to do so; rather, by leading them to greater spiritual maturity.
We need to be careful about judging the “health” of others in this regard. We do not know what others are “planting” and “watering.” Therefore, we should not assume that they are doing little or nothing to reach the lost when we do not see conversions.

If the above points are valid, what do we need to do – especially if we are not seeing the conversions we would like to see?

We need to ensure our spiritual health. We “cannot bear fruit” unless we abide in Christ (John 15:4). We abide in Him as we “walk in the same manner as He walked” (I John 2:6). John also wrote, “The one who keeps His commandments abides in Him” (I John 3:24). We need to be sure we are following Christ's example and obeying His word.
We need to be engaged in planting and watering (I Corinthians 3:6). This may lead to conversions, or it may not. It could be that the visible results are seen after we are gone. When Jesus talked about the fields being “white for harvest” (John 4:35), He spoke of those who sowed and reaped. The ones who reaped saw the visible results, while the ones who sowed may not have. However, both were necessary and faithful servants of the Lord. We may not see the visible results of conversions, but we can still plant the seed that will bear fruit later.
We are to “stimulate one another to love and good deeds” (Hebrews 10:24). If we do not see the visible results of conversions from the brethren around us, that could mean two things – either they are not doing the work of evangelism, or they are planting and watering, and people are just not responding. In either case, brethren must be encouraged to begin or continue trying to reach people with the gospel. Compelling one who does not want to evangelize will do no good. Shaming one already discouraged because there are no visible results despite his diligent efforts can be dispiriting to him. Rather than assuming we know others’ hearts, we should “encourage one another” (Hebrews 3:13).

All faithful Christians want to bear fruit in their service to the Lord and encourage their brethren to do the same. Yet we need to be careful not to make assumptions or to become discouraged when one way of bearing fruit – converting souls to Christ – is not readily apparent. Let us encourage one another – and be encouraged ourselves – to “walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God” (Colossians 1:10).

Bearing Fruit

Jeffrey Hamilton — Fri, 18 Aug 2023 21:43:35 +0000

by Doy Moyer

Jesus spoke these well-known words to His disciples shortly before going to the cross:

“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples” (John 15:1-8, ESV).

We often think of fruit-bearing as bringing others to Jesus. While bearing fruit includes testifying of Jesus, there is more to consider. To get a better perspective on this figure of the vine and branches, let’s think about some Old Testament connections.

Psalm 80 describes Israel asking for restoration: “Restore us, O God of hosts; let your face shine, that we may be saved!” The psalmist describes Israel as a vine that was brought out of Egypt, planted in the land, and prospering (Psalms 80:8-11). Yet walls were broken down, its fruit plucked, and the vine ravaged by beasts because of their sins. Now Asaph asks for God to have regard for the vine. Though others have burned it with fire and cut it down, “let your hand be on the man of your right hand, the son of man whom you have made strong for yourself!” (Psalms 80:17). We can see connections here to John 15 as this request is ultimately fulfilled in Jesus. Indeed, the Son of Man is the true vine and those who do not abide in Him cannot bear fruit but will be cut down and burned with fire. Life is found in Jesus, who restores and saves His people. What the psalmist desired for restoration can be found in Jesus Christ, the true vine.
Isaiah 5 uses the figure of a love song about the Lord’s vineyard (God’s people) that was planted on a fertile hill. But when the vinedresser (God) looked for good grapes, He found only wild grapes unfit for consumption. This is a picture of Israel’s faithlessness. God did everything for the vineyard: “What more was there to do for my vineyard, that I have not done in it?” (Isaiah 5:4) God then says He would remove the hedge and it would be devoured (Isaiah 5:5-7). Just so, those who do not abide in Christ are cut down and thrown in the fire. Other passages show the same concept (cf. Isaiah 27:4). Life is found by abiding in the Lord.

In John 15, the disciples would likely hear what Jesus said against that backdrop of warnings about turning from God. The only hope they had of bearing good fruit would be to remain in Jesus. What, though, is the good fruit in John 15? In the greater context of John 14-16, the disciples are tasked with the mission of spreading the message of Jesus and proclaiming the truth. Making disciples of all nations would surely be included here. Paul referred to the gospel “bearing fruit and increasing” (Colossians 1:6, 10). Surely the seed planted will grow and bear fruit.

There is something else in the text that is necessary for fruit-bearing. Jesus reminds the disciples of His love for them, then tells them to keep His commandments and abide in His love (John 15:9-11). This is followed by a command to “love one another as I have loved you” (John 15:12). We can connect this to John 13:34-35 where Jesus said, “By this all people will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another.” Bearing fruit as we abide in the Vine means loving Him and one another. This shouldn’t surprise us, for when we read of the “fruit of the Spirit,” love is first on the list (Galatians 5:22). Without love, there is no fruit bearing. Let us also recall the two greatest commands: love God and love others as self (Matthew 22:36-40). Love is fruit and love is necessary to bear more fruit. Everything hinges on this.

Abiding in Jesus means loving Him, His disciples, and a world of people lost in sin. If we do, we will tell the story of the cross wherein Jesus showed the truth in this statement: “Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends. You are my friends if you do what I command you” (John 15:13-14).

May we seek to bear fruit by loving our Lord, loving others, and spreading the good news of salvation!

The Marks of God’s People

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sun, 28 Aug 2022 20:14:57 +0000

https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/The-Marks-of-Gods-People.mp3

by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

Text: Matthew 7:15-20

I. By their fruits you shall know them - Matthew 7:15-20

A. You can distinguish between the righteous and the unrighteous by their fruits

B. The things that they do make them recognizable. More importantly, the results of their work stand out.

C. We could talk about the characteristics of the wicked, but today, let’s focus on the marks of God’s people

II. Christians have righteous characteristics

A. The fruit of the Lord’s light is goodness, righteousness, truth - Ephesians 5:8-9

B. Galatians 5:22-25 - the product of the Spirit

1. Love - A devoted love. A love that gives even when it is not returned.

a. Defined in I Corinthians 13:1-8

2. Joy - Happiness or a calm delight

3. Peace - A quietness that comes from harmony with God and man.

a. It is the opposite of war.

4. Patience - Longsuffering. The willingness to endure.

a. It is shown toward us by God giving us many opportunities to turn from sin.

b. It is needed by us to deal with the shortcomings of our fellow men.

5. Kindness - A gentle person who is kind and good

6. Goodness - A generous person who is good.

a. It is the opposite of evil.

7. Faithfulness - A person of conviction who has his faith, trust, and confidence in God.

a. It also refers to a person who is reliable and trustworthy.

8. Gentleness - A gentle, humble person.

a. He is the opposite of a hot-tempered man.

9. Self-control - A person able to control his desires

C. Those who have peace, produce righteousness by spreading peace - James 3:17-18

D. A fear of God distinguishes us - Malachi 3:16-18

1. Psalms 111:10 - It is the beginning of the wisdom mentioned in James

2. It is a source of strength of character and fountain of life - Proverbs 14:26-27

E. But Malachi 3:16 also tells of another characteristic - speaking often to each other

1. The reason for gather as we do today is so we can encourage each other - Hebrews 10:25

2. The reason we sing in worship is to teach and admonish each other - Colossians 3:16

F. Christians are courageous - Psalms 46

1. The source of our courage is our Lord

2. We can withstand the blasts. We can wait on our Lord - Psalms 27:14

G. We produce fruit when we meditate on God’s word - Psalms 1:1-3

H. Everyone will see we are Jesus’ disciples by our love for each other - John 13:34-35

1. Two things that manifest us as belonging to God - righteousness and love - I John 3:10

2. Our love for each other shows whether we love God - I John 4:20

I. We are different - I Peter 4:3-4

1. People often do not understand us - Acts 26:24

2. Jesus was treated no differently - John 10:20-21

III. If we do not produce results, we will be removed - Luke 13:6-9

A. Fruit is not for the young and vigorous. We can be productive even in our old age - Psalms 92:13-15

B. Are you fruitful? Are you productive? Do you bear the marks of a Christian?

The Fruit of the Spirit

Match the fruit of the Spirit to the definitions below.

A gentle, humble person
Devoted even when it is not returned
A gentle, kind person
A trustworthy person of conviction
Calm delight
A person in control of his desires
Willing to endure
A generous, good person
Quiet harmony with God and man

Fruitful Christians

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sun, 09 Jan 2022 18:09:19 +0000

https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2019/01/Fruitful-Christians.mp3

by Jeffery W. Hamilton

Text John 15:1-8

I. We know that Jesus’ words in John 15 concerning the vine and branches are dealing with individual Christians and not denominations.

A. Jesus is the vine, each one of us are branches off that vine, and God is the vinedresser.

B. But don’t get so caught up in identifying who is being talked about and forget what is being talked about.

C. Grapevines can grow on their own, but they don’t do as well as they do when maintained.

1. A grapevine allowed to grow wild will produce fruit, but it is a poorer quality that one that is regularly pruned.

2. Grapes grow on one-year old branches. Older branches will produce more shoots for grape-producing branches. The problem is if the vine isn’t pruned, it will cycle through a year of mostly leaves followed by a year of grapes, but those grapes will be poor because there are too many.

3. Pruning keeps the balance between grapes being produced and branches for next year’s crop without either becoming too heavy.

D. Simply put, grapes do best when they are severely pruned every year.

II. God prunes the vine

A. A branch which doesn’t bear fruit isn’t worth keeping, so it is removed.

1. Removal in order to teach - I Timothy 1:18-20

2. Pruned back in hopes of restoring - I Corinthians 5:4-5

B. A branch which is bearing is cut back to cause it to bear more fruit.

1. Trials which produce fruit - James 1:2-4; Romans 5:3-5

2. Hard times and difficulties are necessary for the health and productivity of the branches.

a. I’ve repeatedly seen so-so Christians suddenly blossom into productivity when faced with difficulties.

b. When everything appeared to be going smoothly, they sat back. But a hardship came and they suddenly realized there was no one else to do the work.

C. We need fruit worthy of the change in our lives - Matthew 3:8

III. What fruit is being sought

A. Bearing fruit is much more than just sitting in the pew on Sundays

B. Filled with the fruits of righteousness - Philippians 1:9-11

1. Righteousness gained after trials - Hebrews 12:11

C. The change in behavior is fruit - Galatians 5:22-23

1. Ephesians 5:9 - The fruit of the Spirit

2. II Peter 1:2-8 - Abounding in these things you remain fruitful

D. Helping the poor saints - Romans 15:26-28

1. II Corinthians 9:9-10 - the result of our righteousness

2. Helping support the spreading of the gospel - Philippians 4:16-18

E. Maintaining good works - Titus 3:14

1. Such gives glory to God - Matthew 5:16

2. Done by the teaching of the gospel, constantly producing fruit - Colossians 1:5-6

3. Fruitful in every good work - Colossians 1:9-12

F. Giving praise to God - Hebrews 13:15

G. Winning souls to Christ

1. There is a harvest ready - John 4:35-36

2. A wise soul is a tree of life to others - Proverbs 11:30

3. Teaching is a way to produce fruit - Romans 1:13

IV. Fruitful only by remaining in Christ - John 15:4-6

A. Only by keeping Christ’s commandments - John 15:10

B. Sin makes us unfruitful - Ephesians 5:11

C. Some serving only themselves - Jude 12

D. Caught up in the cares of this world - Matthew 13:22

V. Israel lost its position because it became unfruitful - Matthew 21:43

A. The unfruitful are destroyed - Matthew 3:10; 7:19

B. We have so many wanting to know what is in it for them

1. As Christ said, it is more blessed to give than to receive - Acts 20:35

2. Do you define your religion based on what you get or what you give?

C. Are you a productive branch in Christ?

Reading Matthew 25 as a Unit

Jeffrey Hamilton — Tue, 20 Oct 2020 02:13:20 +0000

by Matthew W. Bassford

The wise and the foolish virgin by Jan Adam Kruseman, 1848

Through the years, God has managed to hammer a few insights about the Bible into my thick head. One of them is that in the gospels, the order of stories matters. It’s common for the Evangelist to arrange material so that a text offers commentary on what precedes and follows it.

Reading the gospels in this way widens our focus. Rather than merely considering what a passage says, it’s important for us to ask what its context says about it too. Often, the writers do not spell out these connections (just as Jesus did not spell out the meaning of the parables for the multitudes), but when we make them ourselves, they give us a deeper insight into the Scriptures.

This process is particularly fruitful in Matthew 25. Even though Matthew presents all this material as part of one long discourse, we often don’t study it that way (except maybe at the end of a book study on Matthew when the teacher is desperately trying to reach Matthew 28 by the end of the quarter). We know the parable of the virgins, the parable of the talents, and the throne scene, but rarely do we tie all three of them together.

However, when we do, an important message emerges. The parable of the virgins is about perseverance. We are supposed to be like the wise virgins who kept their lamps lit until the bridegroom arrived, rather than like the foolish virgins who ran out of oil.

The parable of the talents is about productivity. We are to imitate the five-talent and two-talent servants, who did something with what they had been given, rather than the one-talent servant, who accomplished nothing.

The throne scene is about compassion. Jesus wants us to see that caring for His brothers and sisters is so important that He makes it equivalent to caring for Him. Our eternal destiny depends on the way we treat one another.

When we consider these three messages together, it answers questions that each individual message leaves unanswered. If we want to be like the wise virgins, in what should we persevere? Contextually, the answer is that we should persevere in taking advantage of opportunities to care for one another. If we want to be productive like the faithful servants, what does that look like? Contextually, it looks like caring for one another until the end of our time on earth. If we want to minister to one another’s needs, how should we do that? We should do it by continually taking advantage of opportunities for service.

Interestingly, this combined analysis leads to different applications than the ones we usually make. For instance, we generally read the parable of the talents as being about staying faithful (continuing to show up for services, not falling away) rather than serving faithfully. It’s a lot less demanding that way! However, when we pay attention to the full message of the Lord, we better understand the path that He would have us walk.

What if I’m not good enough for God?

Jeffrey Hamilton — Sat, 25 Aug 2018 22:22:00 +0000

Question:

I read something on your website about a statement made that says that if a person could not be trusted with things on earth, then why would God trust him with things in heaven?

Does this mean if somebody is a complete failure, they have no hope of even getting to heaven? How does somebody cope, if they truly have no hope of even being in heaven?

There are verses that mention that trees that don't bear fruit get cut off and thrown into the fire. I would assume that means the person ends up in hell. Is there any hope of a person avoiding hell if they are unable to produce fruit? What if a person really desires God but God decides to reject the person for not being good enough for Him?

Answer:

The passage you refer to is: "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much; and he who is unrighteous in a very little thing is unrighteous also in much. Therefore if you have not been faithful in the use of unrighteous wealth, who will entrust the true riches to you? And if you have not been faithful in the use of that which is another's, who will give you that which is your own?" (Luke 16:10-12). In this context, Jesus is asking the Pharisees what they have done with the things God has loaned to them. We can view that all that we have is a temporary loan to us from God since we are just passing through this world and we can't take anything with us when we leave.

Thus, we need to consider what produce God is looking for. He certainly doesn't care if we make thousands of dollars with the money we have.

We are to be filled with the fruits of righteousness (Philippians 1:10-11). These fruits are gained after we have gone through hardships (Hebrews 12:11).
Changes in our behavior are fruit. "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law" (Galatians 5:22-23). "For the fruit of the Light consists in all goodness and righteousness and truth" (Ephesians 5:9). After giving a list of character attributes, Peter said, "For if these qualities are yours and are increasing, they render you neither useless nor unfruitful in the true knowledge of our Lord Jesus Christ" (II Peter 1:2-8).
Helping the poor saints is a fruit (Romans 15:26-28). "As it is written: "He has dispersed abroad, He has given to the poor; His righteousness endures forever." Now may He who supplies seed to the sower, and bread for food, supply and multiply the seed you have sown and increase the fruits of your righteousness" (II Corinthians 9:9-10).
Helping support the spread of the Gospel. "For even in Thessalonica you sent a gift more than once for my needs. Not that I seek the gift itself, but I seek for the profit which increases to your account. But I have received everything in full and have an abundance; I am amply supplied, having received from Epaphroditus what you have sent, a fragrant aroma, an acceptable sacrifice, well-pleasing to God" (Philippians 4:16-18).
Maintaining good works is also a fruit. "Our people must also learn to engage in good deeds to meet pressing needs, so that they will not be unfruitful" (Titus 3:14). These are not works that men decide are good, but doing the things that God commands of us, such gives glory to God. "Let your light shine before men in such a way that they may see your good works, and glorify your Father who is in heaven" (Matthew 5:16).
Learning from God and living a life pleasing to God is a fruit. "For this reason also, since the day we heard of it, we have not ceased to pray for you and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all spiritual wisdom and understanding, so that you will walk in a manner worthy of the Lord, to please Him in all respects, bearing fruit in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God" (Colossians 1:5-6).
Whenever the gospel is taught, it produces fruit. "Because of the hope laid up for you in heaven, of which you previously heard in the word of truth, the gospel which has come to you, just as in all the world also it is constantly bearing fruit and increasing, even as it has been doing in you also since the day you heard of it and understood the grace of God in truth" (Colossians 1:5-6). This is broader than converting souls to Christ, which is also important. But whenever we teach people about the truth and morality, it shapes people and moves them toward righteousness.
When you worship God and give Him praise, that is a fruit. "Through Him then, let us continually offer up a sacrifice of praise to God, that is, the fruit of lips that give thanks to His name" (Hebrews 13:15).
And, of course, the one most people think of first, winning souls to Christ is a fruit (John 4:35-36; Proverbs 11:30; Romans 1:13).

Too often we discount the things we are able to do. We think we are worthless because we haven't talked someone into becoming a Christian. But that is just one aspect of being fruitful. Your words of encouragement, being helpful to someone in need, or even supporting someone who is good at teaching others are all just as important to God.

The Necessity of Bearing Fruit

Jeffrey Hamilton — Wed, 30 Sep 2015 19:33:00 +0000

https://www.lavistachurchofchrist.org/cms/wp-content/uploads/2015/09/2015Fall6TheNecessityOfBearingFruit.mp3

by Brace Rutledge

2015 Fall Meeting

Resolutions from Hebrews

Jeffrey Hamilton — Wed, 15 Oct 2003 02:24:00 +0000

by Jeffrey W. Hamilton

Text: Philippians 3:8-16

I. As one year draws to a close and another dawns new, people make resolutions that the new year will not be like those in the past

A. There are resolutions to lose weight, to exercise more, break bad habits and to establish good habits.

B. The writer of Hebrews left encouragement for Christians; admonitions that if we accept will impact our lives.

II. Attitude

A. Let us fear - Hebrews 4:1

1. Generally, we don’t like being afraid.

2. But some fear is good for us. Fear creates an awareness of the dangers that surround us.

a. Nothing is more troublesome to a parent than a child who is unaware of danger.

b. You are constantly snatching them from table tops, roof tops, and other places of danger to the point your nerves are jangled.

3. Heaven is not guaranteed to those who ignore the dangers - I Corinthians 10:12

B. Let us be diligent - Hebrews 4:11

1. Many foolishly think that life is a free handout.

a. They think it is others responsibility to see to their wants and desires.

b. You sadly wait for the day when the rude awakening comes and they find what a mess they have made of their life.

2. It spreads to their attitude regarding heaven. They act as if it is their due. Unfortunately, they are due a rude awakening.

3. God expects effort from His children.

a. Work out your salvation - Philippians 2:12

b. Be diligent to make your calling certain - II Peter 1:10-11

C. Let us hold fast - Hebrews 4:14

1. Far too many are careless with their possessions.

a. Things are quickly lost or destroyed

b. There is no value

2. We need to value our salvation.

a. Hold to the end - Hebrew 3:6

b. Hold without wavering - Hebrews 10:23

D. Let us boldly ask for help - Hebrews 4:16

1. There are those who will not ask for help

a. For some it is a matter of pride not to admit they are unable to solve their own problems

b. For others it is a fear that they will be rejected, which will then wound their pride

2. Do we really believe that the Lord is our help? - Hebrews 13:6

3. God wants us to ask - Matthew 7:7-11

4. Our faith gives us boldness and access - Ephesians 3:11-12

5. Time is limited - Isaiah 55:6-7

III. Growth

A. Let us go on to perfection - Hebrews 6:1

1. We cannot grow if we never move on to new topics.

2. A desire for the word - I Peter 2:1-2

3. It is the purpose of the church - Ephesians 4:11-16

B. Let us draw near - Hebrews 10:22

1. Our worship of God draws us ever closer to Him

2. Not with just words or actions, but with our hearts - Isaiah 29:13

3. Our hearts must not condemn us - I John 3:21

4. Must purify and have confidence - James 4:8

C. Let us consider one another - Hebrews 10:24-25

1. We can’t make it alone. We need the encouragement of others

2. Encourage and build each other up - I Thessalonians 5:11

3. Love not in words, but with deeds and truth - I John 3:18

IV. Produce

A. Let us lay aside every weight - Hebrews 12:1

1. We must leave the world behind - I Peter 4:1-2

2. We cannot shrink back into worldly ways - Hebrews 10:35-39

B. Let us run with endurance - Hebrews 12:1

1. We cannot give up - Philippians 3:10-14

C. Let us show gratitude - Hebrews 12:28

1. Luke 17:11-19 - We need to be appreciative of God’s blessings

2. We need to acknowledge them in prayer - Ephesians 1:15-16

3. Thankful in song - Colossians 3:15-16

4. Continually offer the sacrifice of praise - Hebrews 13:15

D. Let us go forth - Hebrews 13:13-14

1. We need to live the life of a Christian

2. I Peter 4:14 - We will met resistance

3. But we are not looking for a place in this world - Hebrews 11:15-16

4. We might have to leave family behind - Mark 10:29-30

V. The remainder of your life will be defined by what you purpose to do

A. Not the resolutions made with words that are quickly broken like New Year’s resolutions

B. Those are merely intentions without will or resolve behind them.

C. The resolutions we need are those that effect our lives deeply and changes the course on which we were heading.