PLEASE READ THIS FIRST: Matthew 21:33-45
What do you sense the Lord saying to you in this passage?
“The kingdom of God will be… given to a people who will produce its fruit.” (Matthew 21:43)
Jesus challenges the religious leaders for failing to produce good fruit.
What is this kingdom fruit that the religious leaders are not producing?
This world was made as God’s creation kingdom, ruled by God-like humans.
These God-like humans reflected God’s character, what God is like.
“The compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness, maintaining love to thousands, and forgiving wickedness, rebellion and sin.” (Exodus 34:6-7)
Yet what happens to those that refuse to embrace God’s compassion and grace?
Jesus warns about the “wretched end” (Matthew 21:41) of those who refuse to be loving.
God also warned Moses that He “does not leave the guilty unpunished.” (Exodus 34:7)
We are saved BY gracious love FOR gracious love; this is the fruit God expects!
The Spirit of Jesus helps us produce this fruit (Galatians 5:22-23).
As Jesus followers we aim to reflect this love, joy, peace, patience, etc.
This is how Jesus identifies and honours citizens of God’s kingdom.
Jesus is speaking to me: am I producing the fruit of the kingdom?
Lord Jesus, You are showing me the beauty and value of God’s love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self control. Help me to experience these more, that I may express them more to others.