Jesus told his disciples, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me” (John 14:6). He then described himself as “the true vine” (John 15:1).
We are “grafted into” the family of God through our faith in Christ. However, Jesus wanted to make one more lesson clear.
If a believer is truly attached to the “true vine,” he or she will bear much fruit. The fruit of our lives proves to the world that we are disciples of Christ. Our “fruit” glorifies our heavenly Father.
Just as a strong vine produces many grapes, a strong disciple will produce other disciples. When our faith leads others to faith, we prove we are God’s children. Jesus said, “By this my Father is glorified.”
If a Christian is yielded to the power of the Holy Spirit and walking with the purpose of Jesus, they will do the work of an evangelist. The overflow, the fruit of that intentional and dedicated walk with God, is a witness that draws others to glorify the Father. It isn’t difficult to spot a disciple in our world today.
When speaking to groups, I have often told them to consider a “five-minute measure” of their walk with God. When a disciple of Christ walks into a room filled with people having conversations, it shouldn’t take more than five minutes for someone to be aware that you are a Christian. Put that to the test, set that as your goal, and you will bring glory to your Father in heaven.
Wisdom is joyfully sharing Christ with others. It is wise to consider what it means to be a disciple of Christ and measure the fruit of your life by the numbers of people who have noticed you glorify your heavenly Father—wherever you go.
