Written by Eric R
Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit. (John 12:24)
Does it sound logical or scientific? How can a dead grain bear fruit?
Jesus taught most of His teachings through parables. He referred to what we knew already to reveal something we don't know.
He used the parable of seeds and agriculture in many of His teachings since people around Him could easily relate with the context.
We all know grains have life; if we throw them onto the land, the life in it pops out. But, what did Jesus mean when He said, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the earth and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it bears much fruit."
Years ago, I heard the following from the senior Pastor of CFC, Bro. Zac Ponnen.
Jesus didn't mean that grains would yield fruits if they died in literal terms. The well-informed knowledgeable generation does know the dead cannot produce life.
Jesus wanted to draw parallels to the spiritual life. He was talking about the fruit of the Holy Spirit. We would be able to produce the fruit of the Holy Spirit only when the Spirit of God comes and lives with us. He would come to us only when we invite Him with humility in our hearts. We become humble when we die for our 'Self' - IE—leaving our status, glory, respect, and pride. Jesus said, and when we die for all this earthly glory and pride, we will start bearing many (Spiritual) fruits.
The grain has life deep inside, but it cannot boast about its glory anymore. The grain is hidden under the ground; people considered low in caliber, less social status, illiterate, less experienced, and insignificant stamp the grain under their feet.
Yes, it is dead, lost its identity, beyond recognition, but started growing and bearing more fruits; it helps to mature in Christian life and work towards expanding His kingdom.
Lord, please help us be humble and die for our 'self' and empower us to bear more fruits in Jesus' name. Amen.
May God bless you!
