A Little Sunday Something for Atheists

"For a good tree brings not forth corrupt fruit; neither doth a corrupt tree bring forth good fruit. For every tree is known by his own fruit. For of thorns men do not gather figs, nor of a bramble bush gather they grapes. A good man out of the good treasure of his heart brings forth that which is good; and an evil man out of the evil treasure of his heart brings forth that which is evil: for of the abundance of the heart his mouth speaks" (Luke 6:43-45)

The Bible often compares people to sheep, goats, foxes, snakes and other animals. This is because the animals symbolize the character of certain people. Jesus called Herod a "fox," and John called the religious leaders "snakes." Herod was cunning, and the religious leaders were low down nasty creatures, with a vicious bite to them. Christians are called "sheep" because they follow the Good Shepherd to everlasting life. Non Christians are called "goats," because their father is the devil, his will they willingly do, and he leads them into death and Hell.

In this passage of Scripture, each of us are likened to trees, and the "fruit" is evidence of our character. How do you know if a man or woman has a godly character? Look for the evidence of "fruit." The Bible speaks of "the fruit of righteousness." The godly will always strive to do that which is right. There is "the fruit of repentance." If they sin, they will be quick to repent. They are free from hypocrisy. Scripture speaks of "the fruits of praise" and of "thanksgiving." A godly person will give God praise and heart-felt thanksgiving for the gift of life and for the abundance of goodness that He has lavished upon us, despite our many sins.

Finally, there is "the fruit of the Spirit." If the Spirit of God dwells in someone, they will have the evidence of love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, gentleness, faith, meekness, and temperance.

Then Jesus explained that you can know the character of someone by what comes out of his or her mouth. This is so true. Go to any secular forum--where people can speak their heart, and you will feel like you have been swimming in a sewer. Of course, those who are already in the sewer will disagree.