How do we identify a Christian? Is it because they go to church, wear clothing with a Christian message, have a fish on their car, bumper stickers, or wear a cross? Some of the worst drivers around have Christian symbols on their car and some of the most ungodly wear crosses as jewelry. So how can we tell if the outward expressions can't be trusted?
John 13:34-35, "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another; as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another."
Matthew 7:15-20, "Beware of false prophets, who come to you in sheep's clothing but inwardly they are ravenous wolves. You will know them by their fruits. Do men gather grapes from thorn bushes or figs from thistles? Even so, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, nor can a bad tree bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Therefore by their fruits you will know them."
Jesus made it very clear, you will know them by the way they live, not necessarily by the way they talk. The fruit Jesus was speaking about was the fruit of the Spirit.
Galatians 5:22-26, "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, long-suffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another."
Twelve churches have come together to demonstrate our love of one another and celebrate the fruit of the Spirit. We have rented the entire Lampe Park including the skate park on Sept. 19 and 20 to provide a safe and fun festival for all ages. This event will include professional entertainment, games for all ages, food, great information and just a general good time for everyone.
The Spirit Fest '08 theme will be Many Churches, One Lord. If you would like more information about Spirit Fest '08, you may call (888) 720-5777 or 782-1961.
n Pastor Leo Kruger of Valley Christian Fellowship is a member of Carson Valley Ministers' Association.
