What does it mean to “abide” in Jesus? In John 15, Jesus calls Himself the True Vine—the source of life, growth, and fruit. He tells us that true disciples are those who remain in Him and bear lasting fruit. But what happens when we don't? This message unpacks the difference between divine judgment and divine discipline, how God lovingly prunes us, and why fruit is the evidence of a life rooted in Christ. We also explore the command Jesus gave: “Love one another as I have loved you.” Listen now and be reminded: the goal isn’t to bear fruit—it’s to stay close to the vine.
Title: Jesus Is the True Vine
Main Text: John 15:1-11
Key Points:
The Vine, the Vinedresser, and the Branches
Jesus is the true vine, the Father is the gardener, and we are the branches.
True believers bear fruit. Fruit doesn’t lead to salvation—it proves salvation.
There are two types of branches: those that bear fruit and are pruned, and those that bear no fruit and are cut off.
Dead Branches: Divine Judgment
Branches that don’t remain in Christ are thrown away, wither, and are burned (John 15:6).
Dead branches drain life, invite disease, and block light and growth—for themselves and others.
Judgment is not passive—it’s just, and it reveals true spiritual condition.
Fruitful Branches: Divine Discipline
God prunes fruitful branches so they bear even more fruit.
Pruning is painful, but it’s an act of love that draws us deeper into dependence on Christ (Hebrews 12:6, 2 Corinthians 1:8-9).
Spiritual growth often comes through trials.
Abide in the Vine
Remain. Abide. Stay close. Jesus says, “Apart from me you can do nothing.”
Remaining doesn’t make you a disciple—it proves that you are one.
If you were hurt in community, healing happens in community.
Fruit = Love
Jesus’ command is clear: “Love one another as I have loved you.”
His joy becomes our joy when we obey His commands and live a life marked by sacrifice and love.
Final Question:
Are you bearing fruit? What season are you in? The goal isn’t to force fruit—it’s to stay close to the vine.