The reference to “the end” clarifies that these events are related to the last days. After this final gathering will come the destruction of the wicked. To assist in this great final task, the Lord calls in other servants. These are the latter-day missionaries, both those called formally and those whose informal efforts draw others to salvation.
The reference to the “natural fruit” is an interesting change from earlier references in which the fruit is described as good or useful (or worthless and corrupt). While the “natural” fruit is certainly good, there appears to be a greater meaning here, as this natural fruit is better than any other. In this context, it is the gospel truly understood and lived. The ability of human beings to be righteous is greater when they know the gospel than under any other circumstances, although humankind may certainly be good even in the absence of the gospel. It is this superior “goodness,” this perfection through the gospel, that is the focus in this verse.