Is "you shall know them by their fruits" a reliable test of true Christian faith in light of believers committing violent acts?
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Jesus said in Matthew 7:16, "You will know them by their fruits." This verse is often cited to identify genuine believers based on their actions and character.
However, a recent incident in Minnesota where a self-professed evangelical Christian—who had even received an appointment—was involved in the shooting of a congresswoman raises questions. How should this verse be understood in light of such events? Can we truly and reliably know a believer by their fruits, especially when someone outwardly identified with Christianity ends up acting in a way that seems so contrary to Christ’s teachings?
How do different theological traditions interpret this principle when actions contradict profession of faith?
Asked by So Few Against So Many
(4829 rep)
Jun 18, 2025, 06:27 AM
Last activity: Jun 23, 2025, 07:36 AM
Last activity: Jun 23, 2025, 07:36 AM