A fruitless life proves counterfeit emotional manifestations of contrition. This is a warning to us all, for the axe of God’s judgment is already laid at the root of the trees. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. As faith without works is both dead and useless, so repentance without fruit is a powerless counterfeit that cannot save.40 However, if a person’s heart has truly turned Godward, he will evidence it by a newfound practical obedience to the will of God.
