“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser.Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned.If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.” John 15:1-10 ESV
The Vine is Jesus
The Vinedresser (Grape farmer) is the Father
The Branch is us
The fruit represents the Holy Spirit’s activity in our lives both in forming our character and in doing what Jesus wants us to do.
What does it mean to “Abide” in Jesus?
- To abide in Him means to stay connected to Jesus by maintaining a living active relationship with Him
- To stay connected means living moment by moment, trusting Him to meet all your needs and be your deepest treasure.
How do we stay connected to Jesus?
- Focus the best of your attention and affections on Him
“Abide in me, and I in you” Vs. 4
- Forget trying to do life without Him
“…for apart from me you can do nothing.” Vs 5
- Flame your heart with His word
“If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you.” Vs. 7
- Find your identity in His love for you
“…Abide in my love.” Vs. 9
- Follow His instructions
“If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.” Vs. 10