The phrase "Return with the Fruit of the Land" is rooted in the biblical narrative found in the Book of Numbers, specifically in the account of the twelve spies sent by Moses to explore the land of Canaan. This event is a significant moment in the history of Israel, as it reflects themes of faith, obedience, and the fulfillment of God's promises.

Biblical Context

The account is recorded in Numbers 13-14. After the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and their journey through the wilderness, they arrived at the border of the Promised Land. God instructed Moses to send one leader from each of the twelve tribes to scout the land of Canaan. The purpose was to assess the land's fertility, the strength of its inhabitants, and the fortifications of its cities.

Numbers 13:17-20 states: "When Moses sent them to spy out the land of Canaan, he told them, 'Go up through the Negev and into the hill country. See what the land is like and whether its people are strong or weak, few or many. Is the land where they live good or bad? Are the cities where they dwell open camps or fortifications? Is the soil fertile or unproductive? Are there trees in it or not? Be courageous, and bring back some of the fruit of the land.'"

The Spies' Report

After forty days of exploration, the spies returned with samples of the land's produce, including a cluster of grapes so large that it had to be carried on a pole between two men, along with pomegranates and figs (Numbers 13:23). This bounty was a tangible demonstration of the land's fertility and abundance, fulfilling God's promise of a land "flowing with milk and honey" (Exodus 3:8).

The spies reported to Moses and the congregation, saying, "We went into the land to which you sent us, and indeed, it is flowing with milk and honey, and here is its fruit" (Numbers 13:27). However, ten of the spies also expressed fear, focusing on the strength of the inhabitants and the fortified cities, which led to a negative report that discouraged the Israelites.

Faith and Rebellion

The contrasting responses of the spies highlight a critical moment of faith and rebellion. Caleb and Joshua, two of the twelve spies, urged the people to trust in God's promise and take possession of the land, declaring, "Let us go up at once and take possession, for we can certainly conquer it" (Numbers 13:30). Their faith stood in stark contrast to the fear and doubt expressed by the other ten spies.

The negative report led to widespread fear and rebellion among the Israelites, who lamented their situation and expressed a desire to return to Egypt. This lack of faith resulted in God's judgment, condemning that generation to wander in the wilderness for forty years until a new generation arose to enter the Promised Land (Numbers 14:26-35).

Theological Significance

The episode of the spies and the fruit of the land serves as a powerful lesson on the importance of faith and obedience to God's commands. It underscores the reality of God's promises and the necessity of trusting in His provision, even when faced with seemingly insurmountable challenges. The faith of Caleb and Joshua is celebrated as an example of unwavering trust in God's word, while the fear and rebellion of the other spies serve as a cautionary tale of the consequences of doubt and disobedience.

In the broader biblical narrative, the return with the fruit of the land symbolizes the tangible evidence of God's faithfulness and the blessings that await those who trust in Him. It is a reminder that God's promises are sure and that His people are called to walk by faith, not by sight (2 Corinthians 5:7).