In Matthew 7:16, Jesus incorporates the analogy of fruit to indicate that it will be by their actions that one could identify a true follower of His. Let’s look at some characteristics of fruit that we can attribute to our walk with Christ?
First, fruit is pleasant to the sight; so long as it is still attached to its source of life and not rotting. As Christians, we need to make sure that our actions are a pleasant sight to the Master Gardener. We can be assured that we will be pleasing to God when we abide in Jesus and His Word. Apart from Jesus, any fruit would rot and whither leaving the branch good only for the fire- Eph 6:7 ; John 15:1-6.
Secondly, fruit is nourishing. As Christians we need to be sure that our behavior nourishes godly habits in others. We should be sure that our example, in word and deed, builds others up in the Lord and not cause a stumbling block -1Cor 15:33 ; Eph 4:29 ; Rom 14:23.
Finally, the fruit on a tree is openly visible; as if put on display. As Christians, our faith should be on display for all to see. We are a light to the world. Jesus said that no one lights a lamp and hides it. No matter where you are you should not conceal that you are a Christian. If you are in a place where you feel you must hide the light then get out or blaze. You did not light the lamp yourself; Jesus lit you up and wants your light to shine before all men –Matt 5:14-16.
Paul also used the analogy of fruit to describe the manifestation of the Holy Spirit within one’s life and contrasting the fruits of the Spirit with the fruits of the flesh. By these fruits you shall know and be known:
Galatians 5:16-25
16 So I say, let the Holy Spirit guide your lives. Then you won't be doing what your sinful nature craves.17 The sinful nature wants to do evil, which is just the opposite of what the Spirit wants. And the Spirit gives us desires that are the opposite of what the sinful nature desires. These two forces are constantly fighting each other, so you are not free to carry out your good intentions.18 But when you are directed by the Spirit, you are not under obligation to the law of Moses.
19 When you follow the desires of your sinful nature, the results are very clear: sexual immorality, impurity, lustful pleasures,20 idolatry, sorcery, hostility, quarreling, jealousy, outbursts of anger, selfish ambition, dissension, division,21 envy, drunkenness, wild parties, and other sins like these. Let me tell you again, as I have before, that anyone living that sort of life will not inherit the Kingdom of God.
22 But the Holy Spirit produces this kind of fruit in our lives: love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness,23 gentleness, and self-control. There is no law against these things!
24 Those who belong to Christ Jesus have nailed the passions and desires of their sinful nature to his cross and crucified them there.25 Since we are living by the Spirit, let us follow the Spirit's leading in every part of our lives.
