Roots Before Fruits

by Tom C. McKenney

On the night in which He was betrayed, Jesus had a long talk with His friends (John 13-16), teaching them many things. One of the things He stressed (Chapter 15) is the importance of our being fruitful. He said that in bearing fruit we glorify the Father (v 8), and increase the probability of having our prayers answered (v 16). He said that we should not only bear fruit, but that we should bear much fruit. Elsewhere Jesus taught us that all things can be validly judged by examining the fruit produced (Matt. 7:15-20).

I believe that this applies to almost anything, to doctrines, plans, churches and individual lives. So fruit is important, and the nature of the fruit is an indicator of the true nature of the tree. We are expected, as Christians, to bear fruit; if we are rooted in truth, our fruit will be good. Which brings me to a gem of condensed scriptural truth.

In 11 Kings 19, God is speaking of the judgement He is bringing upon the Israelites for their ongoing wickedness and infidelity. And then He promises some hope: He says that a remnant will escape the judgement, and "shall yet again take root downward, and bear fruit upward."

Notice the sequence here: they will first grow roots downward, and then they will experience growth upward of healthy branches, leaves and flowers, and bear fruit. The lesson for us is simple: before we can bear fruit (and remember that He wants "much" fruit), we must be solidly rooted in the Word, in truth, in fellowship with Him. Then, and only then, will we be like that tree planted by the river, whose leaf doesn't wither, and whose fruit doesn't fail (Ps. 1:1-3).

It may be summed up this way: if you're not fruited, get rooted.

From Tom McKenney's newsletter. To be put on his mailing list, write Tom C. McKenney, Words for Living Ministries, P.O. Box 413, Marion, KY 42064.