HOMILY OF WEDNESDAY 12TH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME – YEAR B
HOMILY THEME: BY THEIR FRUITS
BY: Bishop Gerald M. Musa
One of the greatest threats against the Church today is not from outsiders but from insiders, especially some false and self-acclaimed prophets and ministers who continue to disfigure and manipulate the teaching of Christ. Jesus offers an effective method of distinguishing between authentic and false prophets. He says, “You will know them by their fruits” (Matthew 7:16). Just as a good tree is known by the quality of the fruit it produces, so the actions of people, not their words, reveal their worth.
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A minister or prophet who teaches, practices, and encourages hatred, confusion, violence, and all kinds of poisonous doctrines is a perfect example of a bad tree that bears bad fruit. False prophets offer religion at a discount to gain members; they seek financial gain more than the pastoral care of the people under their care; they lead people to themselves instead of leading them to Christ; their lifestyle is contrary to that of Christ; they advertise miracles to attract followers, but their teaching lacks substance.
The marks of good ministers and authentic prophets can be seen in the good fruits they produce. Their lifestyle corresponds to the life of Christ. They link their belief to their everyday life; they are deeply rooted in prayer; they exhibit virtues of love, humility, holiness, honesty, and accountability; they are committed to the Word; and they are consumed with pastoral and evangelical zeal. What kind of fruit do we produce?
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