Main Thought
Jesus taught in parables. Parables are statements or stories that use tools, like comparisons and analogies, to teach spiritual meaning. In one of these parables, Jesus compared Himself to a grape vine and His followers to branches that come from it. We can learn a lot from this simple idea! The first is that we’re dependent on God’s Spirit for spiritual life, growth, and progress. Everything comes from Him! Healthy fruit comes from healthy trees; healthy spiritual fruit comes from healthy Christians. When things like love, joy and peace come from us - and when people are blessed by us - it reveals that something good is happening in us! When things like bitterness, anger, and cynicism come from us, it reveals negative things happening in our souls. The fruit we bear is always visible. It’s a reliable way to gauge our spiritual health. Good, spiritual fruit increases in our lives over time as we abide in God. This fruit exists for the benefit of others and for the glory of God.
Main Passages
“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.
- John 15:1-3
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.
- John 15:4-6
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. These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.
- John 15:7-11
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought and Passages above?
Might there be bad or negative spiritual “fruit” coming out of your life? Why might that be happening? What can you do to address that?
What good, spiritual “fruit” has come from your life recently? Why do you think that’s happening? Continue to honor God and do things that contribute to good fruit!