A tree is recognized by its fruit!

(Samuel Davies, "The Nature and Author of Regeneration")

"Everyone who confesses the name of the Lord must turn away from wickedness." 2 Timothy 2:19

One distinguishing characteristic of the new birth, is, universal holiness of practice. This consists of a conscientious observance of every known duty—and an honest, zealous resistance of every known sin.

There is no known DUTY, however unfashionable, disagreeable, or dangerous—but what the true convert honestly endeavors to perform!

And there is no known SIN, however customary, pleasing, or gainful—but what he honestly resists, and from which he labors to abstain.

When the heart is made holy—it will infallibly produce habitual holiness of practice. A good tree—must bring forth good fruit.

Oh what a change is this from his former temper!

"Make a tree good—and its fruit will be good; or make a tree bad—and its fruit will be bad; for a tree is recognized by its fruit." Matthew 12:33

"Every tree that does not produce good fruit—will be cut down and thrown into the fire!" Matthew 3:10