Why would anyone drive from Florida to South Dakota to see an eye doctor? You might understand if Jesus was offering to spit in your eyes, but only if you came to see him in Siouxland. That was not the case with us. We went because we were already halfway there, we were planning to go up that way, and we have been seeing this particular doctor for the past twenty-one years. When his office called and said he had an appointment available, we jumped in the car and drove until midnight so we could be at his office the next morning. Would I do it again? Well, after living in Florida for the past six years, maybe it’s time to go local.
Whether we will or not is uncertain. My wife is selective about doctors. She likes to know where they studied, how long, and what grade they got in high school chemistry. This is not a bad thing, because of her I have been blessed with competent medical help. Before I met her, I might have saved money on surgery by having it done at Walter’s Meat Market. Walter does know how to carve a carcass, and he is much cheaper than the Mayo Clinic.
Who do you trust with your eyes, or, for that matter, with your life? Is any advice good advice? Paul often warned his readers about following false teachers. In his letter to the Philippians he writes, “Keep your eyes on those who walk according to the example you have in us. For many, of whom I have told you and now tell you even with tears, walk as enemies of the cross of Christ. Their end is destruction, their god is their belly, and they glory in their shame, with minds on earthly things.” (Philippians 3:17-19 ESV)
How can we know who to follow? The Bible tells us to inspect the fruit of the teacher. In John 15, Jesus said that if we abide in him, we will bear much fruit. If we don’t abide in him, there will not be fruit. He said, “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.” (John 15:8 ESV) Do you need an advisor? Look for the fruit.