The giant hogweed is an impressive but dangerous plant. It can grow up to fourteen feet tall and resembles parsley or Queen Anne’s lace, with white flowers. So what’s the problem? Its sap is toxic and can cause grievous skin irritation, even blistering, which can lead to permanent scars. If the sap comes into contact with the eyes, blindness can result. Though found in the United States, this plant is thankfully not common.
In Matthew 7, Jesus taught that a tree is known by its fruit. His point is both simple and profound. Good trees bear good fruit. Bad trees bear bad fruit. It’s impossible for it to be any other way (vv. 16–18). We like to say, “Only God knows the heart,” which is true. And we don’t want to commit the sin of being judgmental (Matt. 7:1–2). But there’s also some avoidance or “niceness” in saying this. Biblically, we’re empowered by these verses to speak out against bad fruit. Specifically, we should be watching out for false prophets, who might appear to be sheep but are actually wolves (v. 15). If we don’t do so, we’re allowing ourselves to be deceived.
It’s also important to remember not to evaluate “fruit” by cultural standards. To Americans, for example, abundant fruit might mean numbers and achievements. But God defines “fruit” differently and so should we. Galatians 5:16–26 contrasts the fruit of the flesh with the fruit of the Spirit. These two lists represent two ways of life. In action, we can easily tell the difference between them. Part of the biblical meaning of “fruit,” then, is character and maturity through the presence and work of the Holy Spirit. For such a simple lesson, there is much at stake! Bad trees—literally, “rotten” or “diseased” trees—are “cut down and thrown into the fire” of hell (v. 19; see also Heb. 6:7–8).
Go Deeper
What type of fruit are you bearing? Do others see Jesus in your words and actions?
Pray with Us
Holy God, Your commands give us a blueprint for a life that will bear abundant fruit. Please help us overflow with the fruits of the Spirit. May others seek You because of us.
By their fruit you will recognize them.Matthew 7:16
