“I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.” John 15:5
As Jesus continued His last teaching session to His disciples before His crucifixion, He used the illustration of a vine and its branches. This was something they all could relate to. In their journeys through the country, no doubt they had often passed vineyards. They knew that the keepers were very watchful of their vines, pruning them of unwanted growth and making sure that their roots were deep in the soil.
Jesus was showing them that the only way they could be fruitful in their daily lives and in their ministry, was by abiding fully in Him. He named the benefits they would receive by doing so.
- Verse 7 – anything they asked in the Name of Jesus would be done.
- Verse 8 – they would be fruitful and bring glory to God.
- Verse 9-10 – they would receive the boundless love of the Father.
- Verse 11 – they would be filled with joy.
- Verse 15 – no longer called servants but friends.
- Verse 16 – Chosen by God, they would bring forth much fruit that would stand the test of time.
Today, as followers of the Lord Jesus, we can enjoy the same benefits promised to the disciples. The only requirement is that we abide in Him. This means taking time every day to read His Word, communicate with Him in prayer, and live a life that is pleasing to Him. Fellowship with other believers is an important ingredient in abiding. We gain strength and encouragement from others as we worship and enjoy life together. These past three years have shown us how much we need each other, and it is good to be getting back into fellowship.
Often we take the blessings of the Lord for granted, but the only way to make sure that our lives are fruitful is to stay connected to Jesus. Look at John 15:5 “I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing.”
For the past few days we have been looking at the “I AM” statements Jesus made in the Book of John, showing that He was God, and using different illustrations to help us understand and believe. I trust that these have been a blessing to you.
Jesus, we are thankful that you have revealed Yourself to us and that you have given us your Word to lead and guide us in truth. You are the great I AM, and we worship you and praise you today.
Devotion by Anne Johnston
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