Jumpstarter 9 of 10

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Question 9

The chapter ties creation (“image and likeness of God” and fruit “according to its kind”) to Christian fruit-bearing, insisting “without Christ, we cannot possibly bear such fruit”; what “fruit consistent with the image of God” does your life currently produce, and where might your efforts be “fruit of self” rather than fruit of abiding?

Another way to ask: What kind of “fruit” in your life looks like it matches God’s image? Where might you be producing “fruit of self” by your own effort instead of fruit that comes from abiding in Christ?

Direct Answer Bercot teaches that fruit consistent with God’s image is only possible through abiding in Christ—so “fruit of self” is whatever we try to produce apart from Christ’s indwelling and ongoing relationship. The transcript points to “much fruit,” love that makes commands light, and a life centered on God as marks of true fruit.

Support from Transcript:

Creation tie: we were made in “the image and likeness of God,” and God commanded trees to bear fruit “according to its kind.”
Application: “Today, God asks the same thing of us: to bear fruit consistent with the image of God imprinted on our souls.”
Dependence: “Without Christ, we cannot possibly bear such fruit. But with Him, we can bear an abundance of fruit.”
John 15 framework: “As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself unless it abides… neither can you unless you abide in Me.”
Paul’s picture of fruit-bearing life: “It is no longer I who live, but Christ lives in me.”
Practical indicators: continual communion (prayer, Scripture, gratitude), quick repentance, and obedience that is “not burdensome.”

Discussion Follow-ups When you think about your recent “good works,” which ones required you to stay connected to Christ, and which ones could have been done from mere willpower or image-management? What might “abiding” look like before you act?

Jumpstarter 9 of 10

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Jumpstarter 9 of 10