“[God’s Word] is bearing fruit and increasing — as it also does among you, since the day you heard it and understood the grace of God in truth” (Colossians 1:6)
Paul says that God’s Word is bearing fruit in the lives of people from the moment they hear it and truly understand its basic message about God’s grace for sinful people. This is “spiritual wisdom and understanding” (see Colossians 1:9), involving not just their intellectual capacities but also their hearts. It is a deep conviction that changes their lives completely.
The effect of God’s Word is a work of the Holy Spirit. The apostle Paul explains this well in 1 Corinthians 3:6-7. As a missionary, he “planted” the seed of God’s Word. His co-worker Apollos ministered after Paul left Corinth. He “watered” the plants of faith that had sprouted in people’s hearts. “But God gave the growth”, Paul stresses. The effect that the Gospel has on people’s lives and the fruit it brings is only due to God.
The moment you realize that you are spiritually dead and will face eternal judgment if nothing changes, and therefore accept Jesus’ offer of forgiveness and eternal life for free, this will transform you. As you grow in faith and understanding, you will change even more.
Is the Word of God already bearing fruit in your life?