DAY 16 of #100daysofJesus - By their Fruits

 

DAY 16 of #100daysofJesus

Jesus warned "Beware of false prophets, which come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly they are ravening wolves."

False prophets have existed since the beginning of time causing confusion among those seeking religion and spiritual connection to God. How many wars have been sparked by religious ambitions? How many have died at the hands of religious zealots?

False prophets may motivate and move to action; they may speak eloquently and convincingly, but they won't produce good, righteous results that bring people closer to God.

Jesus taught us how to tell the difference between a false prophet and a true prophet: "Ye shall know them by their fruits."

True prophets do not seek gain. They do not prosper at the expense of their followers. True prophets will not teach doctrine contrary to that preached by Jesus himself. On the contrary, their lives and teachings will in harmony with Jesus' teachings.

The fruit of a true prophet will include peace, healing, increased devotion to God, service and taking care of the poor and needy, and the preaching of faith and repentance.

How do latter-day prophets stack up to this? I've read the biographies of Russell M Nelson (the prophet today) and Thomas S Monson (the prophet a few years ago). The fruit of Christian service and love is abundant and unmistakable in their lives. Similarly, the Prophet Joseph Smith produced immeasurable "good fruit", the most tangible of which is his translation of the Book of Mormon, Another Testament of Jesus Christ. We can read and experience this fruit for ourselves to make our own judgement - and we should.

These are just a few examples of inspired prophets who, though imperfect, dedicated their lives to following Jesus and produced an abundance of good fruit.

I also turn this question on myself by asking whether people can know me by my fruits? Will people see my life and actions and recognize me as a disciple of Jesus Christ? That's a high bar, but how else can we follow Jesus' command to let our light shine?

I invite you to likewise consider: what is your fruit?

(References: Matthew 7:15-20, Matthew 5:16)