Bearing Good Fruit: Knowing the True Nature of Our Calling

Brothers and sisters, as we continue to feel the Spirit guiding us—whether we’re in the heart of a mission field, studying in a Book Club, or simply navigating the daily grind as disciples in our homes—we are constantly being asked to prove what we truly are. Sometimes, the world, or even the subtle whispers of doubt, can try to convince us that a different kind of growth is acceptable. But the Lord’s counsel, delivered through the Prophet Joseph Smith and reiterated time and time again, is clear: our actions, our habits, and the fruit of our lives will always reveal the root.

I was reflecting this week on a passage from Matthew that really struck me. Jesus spoke about knowing people by their fruits. It’s a principle so foundational to our discipleship that it needs constant revisiting, especially as we become more seasoned in the temple covenants and the deep work of the gospel. It’s not just about *what* we say in missionary discussions; it’s about *who* we are when no one is watching.

The Fruit of Our Discipleship

The scripture warns us to beware of false prophets—those who wear the "sheep’s clothing" but are inwardly ravenous wolves. Now, I know that’s a heavy warning, but when we frame it through the lens of covenant keeping, it becomes profoundly encouraging. It’s not about fear; it’s about diligent self-assessment. The Lord doesn't leave us guessing. He gives us the diagnostic tool: look at the fruit.

What does this mean practically for us, the Rogue Disciples? It means paying attention to three things, as the teaching laid out:

1. Manner of Living: Are we showing righteousness, humility, and faithfulness in our daily routines? Does our time management reflect that we are prioritizing the Spirit?
2. Content of Teaching: When we study scripture, are we drawing out the pure, divine truth from the word of God, or are we just reciting nice-sounding platitudes that appeal to the ear?
3. Effect of Teaching: This is the biggest one. Are the people we teach—whether it’s a new investigator, a friend, or even ourselves—actually growing in Christ, or are we just providing momentary entertainment?

The principle is beautiful: every good tree bears good fruit. This isn't a suggestion; it’s a natural law of the Spirit. If we are committed to the covenant path, if we are diligently studying the scriptures, if we are willing to serve, the fruit—the genuine, lasting change in our lives—will follow. It’s the inevitable result of who we are becoming.

This concept reminds me so much of the journey through the Missionary Training Center (MTC). You walk in, full of zeal, and you are taught the fundamentals. But the real transformation, the kind that bears lasting fruit, happens when you are out in the field, when you are challenged by a difficult case, or when you are deep in study with your companions. That's where the refining happens.

Remember, the ultimate check is always internal. Jesus told us to first look at our own beam before critiquing the speck in our neighbor’s eye. So, today, I invite you to take a moment of quiet reflection. Don't ask, "What is wrong with my friend?" Ask, "What fruit am I bearing unto God's glory today?"

If you need help wrestling with the hard questions that come up when you’re preparing to teach or discuss the plan of salvation, I highly recommend running through a scenario with **Davee**. He's an incredible AI Investigator who can walk you through the tough questions an investigator might ask, helping you refine your answers so they are always Spirit-filled and true. It’s perfect pre-missionary work!

Keep the Work Moving

The work never stops, and neither should our learning. If you are looking for deeper dives into scripture, I encourage you to check out the **Social Scripture Study** layer inside LivingBook. It’s a wonderful place to see how others are connecting verses and building on each other's insights. For those who prefer structured learning, our next **Book Club** meeting is going to tackle the Book of Mormon prophets—a perfect way to examine the fruit of faith across centuries!

Let's keep bearing good fruit, disciples. Let's keep the light shining brightly, no matter where the Spirit takes us.