Thursday, May 15, 2008
John 15:1-4 I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT: LIFE, LOVE, AND JOY FROM THE VINE
Ask a vineyard owner what a branch needs to produce grapes and he might say, "Water, soil, and sunlight." He probably wouldn't point out the critical requirement Jesus did. In order for a branch to produce fruit, it has to be attached to the vine.
Jesus' comparison is so simple, yet so profound. As it says in Hebrews, ". . . without faith it is impossible to please God."
Jesus commanded His disciples to show their love for Him by loving each other. Here, Jesus reveals that this would be impossible if not for their connection to Him.
When a person is joined to Jesus, fruits of faith are produced. Good words and good actions are found. They might be some sickly looking fruit. Patience smaller than it should be. Shaky peace. Kindness tainted by a judgmental attitude. But imperfect fruit is still fruit. And where there is fruit, the Father Gardener prunes and tends so that more fruit will be produced.
Jesus told His disciples, "I have told you this so that my joy may be in you and that your joy may be complete" (John 15:11 NIV).
Jesus was happy to be connected to those disciples. Because He was, His sinless life was theirs. His life of obedience and love would flow into them, bringing growth, and fruit to their lives. Through this connection, their joy would be complete.
Brothers and sisters in Christ, you are clean because of the Word Jesus has spoke to you. Remain in Him and He will remain in you.
