Cultural Christian vs Christ's Character | Chris Bailey

Looking the part isn’t enough. Jesus is looking for fruit. In this message, Pastor Chris continues from last week’s call to fully commit your life to Jesus and digs into what real fruitfulness looks like. Drawing from the barren fig tree in Mark 11 and Jesus’ words in John 15, he challenges us: if people (and Jesus) got close to your life, what would they find—leaves, or actual fruit?

Key points:
The difference between the culture of Christianity and the character of Christ
Why “trying harder” never produces the fruit of the Spirit
What it really means to abide in the vine
How daily personal encounters with God—not just Sunday moments—change everything
Galatians 5:22-23 and the fruit that only comes from remaining in Him

This isn’t about looking more spiritual. It’s about a heart that actually stays connected to Jesus so the real fruit starts showing up at home, at work, and with the people closest to you.

If this message challenged or encouraged you, take a moment this week to honestly ask: “If Jesus examined my life closely, what would He find?” Then take one simple step toward abiding—more time in the Word, in prayer, or in worship.