Day 46
Today’s reading: John 15:1-17
The True Vine
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The True Vine 〰️
Reflections
All living things must stay connected to their source to survive, and the same is true for us as spiritual beings. Christ is our source and sustainer—apart from Him, we are spiritually dead, trapped in sin. That’s why Jesus emphasizes the word “remain” 11 times in this passage. But what does it truly mean to remain, and how do we do it?
There are two aspects to remaining: we remain in Jesus, and He remains in us. To remain in Him means maintaining an intimate, ongoing connection with God. Have you ever been so immersed in worship that you lose track of time? Have you ever been so engrossed in His Word that the world around you fades away? How deeply do you long for time in His presence? The more we spend time with God, the more we fall in love with Him. It’s time to return to a place where we seek God—not for what He can give, but for who He is.
Remaining in Him also means allowing His Word to take root in our hearts. The natural result of this intimate connection with God is love for others. It is impossible to maintain a deep, constant relationship with Him and not be full of love. If love for others isn’t evident in your life, it’s a sign that either you have not been truly transformed, or your fellowship with God is seriously lacking. There still lacks a “remaining” of the Word in your heart.
Study Questions
Explore the symbolism of the vine in biblical literature. Where else in Scripture does God use the imagery of the vine, and what does it represent in those passages?
What does bearing fruit mean in this context? What is the fruit Jesus refers to? As a disciple of Christ, are you bearing fruit in your life?
This passage highlights three specific benefits of abiding in and obeying Jesus. What are they?
What did you learn about God’s nature, His ways and His will from today’s reading?
Highlight
“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 15:6 ESV
