A tree is recognized by it's fruit

(Samuel Davies, "The Nature and Author of Regeneration")

"Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." 2 Timothy 2:19

One distinguishing characteristic of the new birth, is, universal holiness of practice. This consists of a conscientious observance of every known duty--and an honest, zealous resistance of every known sin.

There is no known DUTY, however unfashionable, disagreeable, or dangerous--but what the true convert honestly endeavors to perform!

And there is no known SIN, however customary, pleasing, or gainful--but what he honestly resists, and from which he labors to abstain.

When the heart is made holy--it will infallibly produce habitual holiness of practice. A good tree--must bring forth good fruit.

Oh what a change is this from his former temper!

"Make a tree good--and its fruit will be good; or make a tree bad--and its fruit will be bad; for a tree is recognized by its fruit." Matthew 12:33

"Every tree that does not produce good fruit--will be cut down and thrown into the fire!" Matthew 3:10


from Grace Gems