Can someone genuinely be saved without showing lasting spiritual fruit?

In this episode, Dr. E tackles one of the most debated questions in Christian theology: What is the relationship between salvation, fruit, and sanctification? If salvation is by grace through faith alone, what role do good works play? And should Christians expect evidence of transformation in every believer's life?

Dr. Easley explains the biblical distinction between justification, sanctification, and spiritual fruit, while cautioning against becoming "fruit inspectors" who attempt to determine another person's salvation based solely on outward behavior. Through passages like Ephesians 2, Romans 6, 1 Thessalonians 4, John 15, and Matthew 7, he offers practical wisdom for balancing grace, holiness, discipleship, and biblical discernment.

Whether you've questioned your own salvation, struggled with legalism, or wondered how to lovingly respond to a believer living in sin, this conversation provides biblical clarity and encouragement.

Key Topics Covered

What salvation, fruit, and sanctification each mean

Are Christians saved by faith alone or faith plus works?

Can a genuine believer show little or no spiritual fruit?

What Ephesians 2:8–10 teaches about good works

Why Christians shouldn't become "fruit inspectors"

How to lovingly confront a believer living in sin

The difference between judging fruit and exercising biblical discernment

The role of discipleship in spiritual transformation

Legalism, liberty, and the weaker/stronger brother

Why only God ultimately knows the human heart

Chapters

00:00 – Should Christians Follow Paul's Example?

00:22 – The Question: Salvation, Fruit & Sanctification

01:00 – Defining Salvation, Fruit & Sanctification

01:49 – Ephesians 2:8–10 Explained

03:30 – Can a Christian Be Fruitless?

05:05 – What Is Sanctification?

07:10 – Can Someone Live in Ongoing Sin and Be Saved?

10:58 – What Does the Bible Mean by "Fruit"?

12:02 – Can We Know if Someone Is Truly Saved?

15:22 – Following Christ Instead of Legalism

17:15 – God's Word, God's Spirit & God's People

18:20 – Why Discipleship Matters More Than Judgment

21:10 – Final Encouragement: Pursue Relationship, Not Fruit Inspection

Find more episodes of Ask Dr. E here.

If you've got a question for Dr. Easley, call or text us your question at 615-281-9694 or email at question@michaelincontext.com.