Fruit and Weeds in the Wake of Tragedy

It has been a little over two weeks since Charlie Kirk was assassinated. Across the world, vigils continue, Facebook pages are filled with memories, and reports of his memorial service are still circulating.

Using a garden analogy, to me it feels as though his death has acted like fertilizer spread across the soil—stirring growth, awakening dormant seeds, and pushing life forward in unexpected ways. ​But any gardener knows that fertilizer doesn’t discriminate. It nourishes both the good and the bad. It strengthens fruit-bearing plants, but it also gives weeds a boost. And in the wake of this event, we are already seeing both take root and grow.

The Positive Growth

In the aftermath of Kirk’s passing, I’ve noticed several encouraging developments:

1. The Gospel has been preached boldly. Frank Turek didn’t mince words when he told an audience of millions that we are sinners deserving of judgment and in desperate need of God’s mercy.
2. A growing boldness to share the truth. Faithful Christians have always spoken up, but when one of us is persecuted or killed for speaking the truth, it emboldens others to do the same.
3. New interest in the church. Tragic events often awaken spiritual hunger. Because of Kirk’s death, some are considering attending church for the very first time.
4. Christian character on display. A powerful example of Christian grace has been seen—especially in Mrs. Kirk, whose words of forgiveness toward the killer have sparked discussions about the nature of grace.
5. Renewed cultural and political discussion. The contrast between left and right is once again on display, prompting important conversations across the country.

These are good things to emerge from tragedy. We should indeed rejoice and give thanks for this fruit—especially as Christians—for this is kingdom growth.

The Negative Growth

At the same time, we must not ignore that Charlie’s death has also stirred up troubling developments. Fertilizer doesn’t discriminate. As the good plants are strengthened, so too are the weeds. Here are a few I’ve noticed—perhaps you’ve seen others as well:

1. The influence of unbiblical groups has grown. During Charlie’s ceremony, voices from Catholicism, Hinduism, Judaism, and unorthodox Christian groups like the SDA were given a platform. At first glance, this may appear to be “unity,” but in reality, it is an ecumenical hodgepodge that confuses and misleads. It blurs the sharp lines of truth and risks drawing people away from Christ rather than toward Him.
2. Political idolatry is deepening. For many, Kirk’s death has become a rallying cry—not for Christ, but for political action. Dare I say... a political savior? But no government, no party, and no man can redeem. When we elevate human leaders to that status, we risk planting weeds that choke out the true hope of the gospel.
3. Charlie himself is becoming the rallying point. The movement seems increasingly centered on him, rather than on Christ. Where is Jesus in all of this? Who are we truly following? In some cases, people have even applied Scripture—such as John 12:24, which refers to Jesus—to Charlie. This is eisegesis: twisting the Word of God to serve the memory of a man. At its core, this is nothing less than idolatry.
4. The gospel is being overshadowed. In speeches, posts, and online comments, there is often a blending—even an equating—of the “American dream” with Christ. But Jesus did not die for the American dream. He gave His life to save us from the wrath of God. When the gospel is diluted with political rhetoric, we lose sight of the cross. And if our focus drifts from Christ crucified and risen, then the weeds of distraction will soon overtake the garden.

A Call to Discernment

Yes, Charlie's death seems to have acted like fertilizer, nourishing both the plants and the weeds. Sometimes it's easy to spot the weeds—but at other times, it’s more difficult. What may appear to be a healthy plant can, in reality, be a weed.

What we need, therefore, is discernment—the spiritual wisdom to distinguish not only right from wrong, but right from almost right.

Where do we find this wisdom? From God. He is the source of all wisdom, and He has revealed what is right and wrong in His Word—the Bible. Get to know it well.

In Scripture, we’re given a test—three questions to help us discern:

1. What do they believe and say about Jesus?
2. What is the character and content of their message? Is it worldly, or does it align with the Bible?
3. Who is mainly listening to them—believers or unbelievers?

A Concluding Appeal

In the wake of Charlie Kirk’s death, we’re witnessing both positive and negative growth—things we can praise God for, and things we need to mark, avoid, and root out. Fertilizer doesn’t discriminate. That’s why now, more than ever, we must be rooted in God’s Word and guided by His wisdom.

Open your Bibles. Test everything against it. Pray for discernment. Ask God to show you what to rejoice in and what to reject—in your life, your community, and your world.