What Matthew 16:24 and Matthew 7:16 Mean for Everyday Life
Let’s break down two important sayings of Jesus from the Bible and see what they mean in simple terms:
Matthew 16:24 – “Take Up Your Cross and Follow Me”
In this verse, Jesus tells his followers, “If anyone wants to be my disciple, they must deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow me.”
What does this mean in plain English?
· Deny Yourself: Jesus is saying that, if we really want to follow him, we need to put his way first—even before our own wants or comfort. It’s about choosing what’s right, even when it’s hard or we’d rather do something else.
· Take Up Your Cross: Back in Jesus’ time, the cross was a symbol of pain, shame, and even death. So “taking up your cross” means being willing to face tough times, criticism, or even big sacrifices for the sake of our faith. It’s not always easy, and sometimes people might misunderstand or reject us.
· Follow Me: Jesus invites us to live as he lived—loving others, doing good, and trusting God, even when it’s difficult. It’s a call to a different way of life, where we let go of selfishness and live for something bigger than ourselves.
Matthew 7:16 – “You Will Know Them by Their Fruit”
This verse is part of a warning from Jesus about people who seem good on the outside but aren’t genuine inside—he calls them “false prophets.”
Here’s what he wants us to know:
· Fruit Means Actions: When Jesus talks about “fruit,” he’s not talking about actual grapes or figs. He’s using “fruit” as a picture of the things people do and the kind of person they are. Just like you judge a tree by the fruit it produces, you judge a person by their behavior, not just their words.
· Watch for Results: Someone might sound spiritual, religious, or convincing, but the real test is how they act over time. Are they kind? Honest? Do they help others? Real faith shows up in actions.
· Don’t Be Fooled by Appearances: Some people may look or sound like they’re doing good, but their actions tell a different story. Jesus says a thornbush can’t grow grapes—meaning, someone who isn’t truly following God can’t consistently produce good, godly actions.
· Use Discernment: It’s okay to pay attention and be wise about who you listen to or follow, especially when it comes to spiritual teachers. Genuine faith leads to good results, while bad teaching leads people down the wrong path.
Why Do These Teachings Matter?
· Jesus is teaching that being his follower is about real change inside and out. It’s not just about saying the right words or looking good on the surface—it’s about living a life that shows love, honesty, and courage, even when it’s tough.
· He’s also warning us not to be fooled by people who talk a good game but don’t live it out. True character will always show itself in a person’s actions, just like a good tree always produces good fruit.
If you want to follow Jesus, he calls you to a life of selflessness and courage, and he reminds you to look for real, lasting change—both in yourself and in others.
Minister A Francine Green
September 2025
afrancinegreen.com 