Bearing Fruit – Love God, Love Others, and Making Disciples
Mark 10:17–27; Matthew 28:16–20 – Gospel Fruitfulness through Love and Mission
Introduction
Every healthy tree bears fruit. That’s how you know the tree is alive, thriving, and fulfilling its purpose. But fruit doesn’t appear overnight. It’s the product of deep roots, a strong trunk, and patient cultivation. In the life of a disciple, fruit-bearing means loving others like Jesus and multiplying that love through disciple-making.
Jesus doesn’t call us to a self-focused spirituality. He invites us to follow Him, and then to help others follow Him too. The fruit of mature discipleship is seen in lives shaped by love, relationships marked by humility, and intentional steps to pass on what we’ve received. In this article, we’ll look at two gospel texts: the story of the rich young ruler and the Great Commission. Together, they show us both the cost and the call of bearing fruit in Christ.
Gospel Exposition: Mark 10:17–27
The rich young ruler runs to Jesus with the right question: “What must I do to inherit eternal life?” (v.17). But behind that question is a misunderstanding. He is assuming eternal life is earned through performance. Jesus responds by listing some commandments, which the man claims to have kept. Next, Jesus gives a heart test.
Jesus looks at him with love and says, “You lack one thing: go, sell all that you have and give to the poor… and come, follow me” (v.21). This isn’t about earning salvation; it’s about removing the idol that’s choking his heart. The ruler’s possessions have a grip on him. Jesus offers him something better: Himself. But the man walks away sorrowful, for he had great wealth (v.22).
This moment is not just about money, it’s about fruit. The love of money prevented him from loving others freely. His idol kept him from bearing fruit in love and obedience. Fruitfulness requires surrender. Jesus says that with man this is impossible, but not with God. God alone can free the heart, replant us in His grace, and cause us to bear lasting fruit.
Gospel Exposition: Matthew 28:16–20
After His resurrection, Jesus commissions His disciples from His incredible authority: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me” (v.18). Because He is the risen Lord, His command shapes our mission: “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations…” (v.19).
The fruit of discipleship is making more disciples. We don’t simply grow for our own sake. We grow to love, to serve, to share, and to multiply. Making disciples isn’t reserved for pastors or missionaries. It’s the call of every follower of Jesus.
Jesus outlines the process: “baptizing them… and teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (v.19–20). Baptism marks a new identity in Christ. Teaching leads to obedience, not just information, but transformation. This fruit is both relational and reproducible. And Jesus promises, “I am with you always…” (v.20). We don’t bear fruit alone; the Spirit of Jesus goes with us.
Bearing Fruit: The Shape of Love and Multiplication
So what does fruit-bearing look like practically?
- Loving others sacrificially – This means giving up comfort, time, or resources to serve. It’s forgiving as we’ve been forgiven. It’s washing feet like Jesus did.
- Naming and surrendering idols – Like the rich ruler, we must allow Jesus to reveal and remove what hinders love.
- Investing in people – Discipleship is not a program. It’s relational. Who are you walking with in prayer, Scripture, and encouragement?
- Sharing the gospel – Making disciples includes calling people to follow Jesus. Fruit grows as we proclaim Christ in word and deed.
Worshipping Jesus
- Worship Jesus as the One who gave everything to bring you into the kingdom.
- Thank Him for freeing you from idols that bear no fruit.
- Praise Him for His authority, His presence, and His call to join Him in making disciples.
Reflection and Response
- What fruit is growing in your life right now? Where do you see love, joy, patience, or faithfulness increasing?
- Are there idols that hinder your love for others or your willingness to make disciples?
- Who is one person you can walk alongside as a disciple this month?
A Prayer
Jesus, You gave everything to make me Your own. You bore my sin and shame so I could be free and fruitful. Forgive me for the idols I cling to, whether comfort, control, or pride. Help me follow You with joy. Fill me with Your love so I can love others well. Show me whom You are calling me to disciple, and give me courage to invest. Thank You that I never do this alone. You are with me. Amen.
Discipleship Challenge
Take time this week to prayerfully ask God to show you one person you can disciple. It could be a child, a friend, a newer believer, or someone seeking truth. Start a weekly rhythm of prayer, Scripture reading, and mutual encouragement. Let your fruit grow by investing in others.
“By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” —John 15:8