3:9 How are we to understand this?
3:9 How are we to understand this?
John is speaking figuratively here of the coming Christ who would test the reality of man's repentance (cp V8). Fruits worthy of repentance are works of faith.
Repentance and faith are inextricably linked in scripture (cp Mk 1:14-15; Ac 3:19 and 20:21 with Jas 2:14-26). Those who do not manifest the fruits of repentance will be consigned to hell (cp Jn 15:1-6).
"The branches that do not bear fruit" here refer to mere professors of faith in Jesus, not active doers of His word (cp Mt 7:21-27; 12:30).
See also comments on Mt 7:21, 12:30, Jn 15:2, 15:4-6, Jas 2:14-26.