Producing Kingdom Fruit

Have you ever driven by or visited a vineyard near harvest time? The rows of vines, heavy with ripe fruit, are a breathtaking reminder of the potential for a bountiful harvest. But what if those responsible for the vineyard failed to do their part? In Matthew 21:43, Jesus tells a parable that challenges us to consider our role in producing the proper fruit for God's Kingdom.

With only days left in his ministry, Jesus is still speaking in parables. In the passage leading up to today's, Jesus is talking to some of the religious leaders, and he relates the story of a landowner (God) who makes a considerable investment in a vineyard (Israel) and places tenant farmers (the leaders) to manage the property. When harvest time comes (the coming of the Kingdom of God), he sends three servants (prophets) to collect his share–the fruit. The wicked growers beat one, killed one, and stoned the other. Expecting a different result, the owner sends his son (Jesus), whom they also kill. 

When Jesus asked the leaders, “What do you think he will do to those farmers?” Without hesitation, they respond that the growers are wicked, should be put to death, and the property handed over to others. Jesus responds with the quote from Psalm 118:22-23, making it clear he was speaking of them and further fueling their resentment against him. In doing so, Jesus reveals the broader truth of God’s Kingdom: it is not limited to one group of people but is open to all who will faithfully bear its fruit. This call to faithfulness and fruitfulness remains timeless. The growers will be replaced; the vineyard will still produce fruit. 

We may no longer be literal growers of vineyards, yet the question remains: What fruit are we producing in our lives today? In a world often filled with distractions, it’s easy to focus on personal ambitions or overlook the responsibility entrusted to us by God. This parable compels us to pause and reflect: Are we cultivating our faith, loving our neighbors, and serving others in ways that honor God? Rather than seeing this parable as a critique of one group, we can understand it as a universal call to all people to live faithfully and bear fruit for the Kingdom. And more importantly, what does it mean for us, as a community, to be the "nation that produces the proper fruit"?

Heavenly Father, thank You for entrusting us with the responsibility to bear fruit for Your Kingdom. May we rise above distractions and self-centered pursuits to fulfill Your calling with faithfulness and love. Help us to cultivate lives that honor You, showing mercy, justice, and kindness to others. As a community, Your Church, let us be united in producing fruit that glorifies Your name and furthers Your Kingdom. In Jesus' name, we pray. Amen.

Blessings,

Pastor Tim