We all need to be loved and a part of a community. We can’t experience life alone. It’s better together with others. Jesus related the value of abiding with Him in intimacy; and participating with others in fellowship in a community of faith.
After sharing that He is “the way, the truth, and the life,” the LORD continued teaching, adding how to live in the way. One thing He discussed was being a temple or sanctuary for the Holy Spirit. He shared how to live THE WAY OF THE KINGDOM—individually and together as a community of faith.
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 bears fruit He prunes, that it may bear more fruit. You are already clean because of the word which I have spoken to you. Abide in Me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit of itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in Me.
I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without Me you can do nothing. If anyone does not abide in Me, he is cast out as a branch and is withered; and they gather them and throw them into the fire, and they are burned. If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you. By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be My disciples” (John 15:1-8).
RELEVANCE
I think it’s amazing how many times He used the word, abide in this short context of scripture. He had some big points to make. In being vibrantly connected to Him—and others of His vine—we experience the flow of His sap—His love and Holy Spirit. We experience His presence! In that we can bear much fruit and bring glory and honor to God.
REFLECT AND RELATE
How do you know when you are abiding in the LORD?
What does it mean to be united with the LORD?
How do you have intimate communion and fellowship with the LORD?
How do you sense God’s presence?
It what ways can you truly tap into the “true vine” and grow into the fullness of the measure of your capacity in God?
REFERENCES
John 15:1-25