Matthew 7:13-23  "Enter by the narrow gate... " Jesus tells us...   There are only two choices.. the "broad way that leads to destruction"  and the "narrow" one that "leads to life."  Jesus knows that many will choose the wide gate and that only a few will find the narrow way.  We all have a choice to make.. and it is not always easy. 

Jesus teaches that there are also two kinds of "prophets". The true prophet will be known by his actions.. the fruit that his life produces... "good fruit".  There are also "false prophets  who come to you in sheep's clothing, but inwardly are ravenous wolves."  Jesus assures us that we will able to recognize them "by their fruits". (verse 16 and verse 20)..

It is impossible for a "bad tree" to produce "good fruit".  When we watch carefully and pay attention to the  fruit of a person's life.. we can tell what kind of character they have and what road they have chosen. 

Jesus warns that those who are imposters.. who even tried to fool Him with their religious words and works.. will not slip into the kingdom unseen.  He sees the heart.  He knows those who are His own.  He is the vine and we are the branches and we can bear NO fruit at all without Him. 

I remember having a little poem once.. can't find it now.. but it started with the words.. "You tell on yourself.. "   By everything we do.. everything we say..we make clear the road that we have chosen.. the kind of tree we are.. the heart and soul of who we are because of Who we belong to. The Lord is never fooled by the outward appearance.. for He sees our hearts.  We may fool others.. for a time.. but eventually we tell on ourselves.. and what is hidden will come to light. 

Father in heaven, may we be genuine in our thoughts, our words, and our actions.. loving You with all our hearts and souls and minds and bodies. Completely yours. We choose the narrow way.. the way of Christ Jesus our Lord. Let Your will be done in us today as we abide in Jesus.. and may good fruit be produced in our lives to the glory of Your Name. Amen.