The Vine - John 15:5

Seek God Together

If you appreciate this work, consider supporting it - https://www.patreon.com/seekgodtogether Today we will read John 15:5 which says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me.” Jesus is everything. And in the gospels Jesus describes Himself in many ways. Bread of life, living water, the good shepherd, we could go on and on. And when we worship, our minds should race wildly with just how wonderful He is. No one verse, no book, no Bible could contain the entirety of Jesus. But we must start somewhere. And in this verse, Jesus is the vine. The vine provides nourishment, and support for the branches which bear grapes. The fruit is useful to eat, or drink. Perhaps most unique to this analogy is the role we play. We are the branches. When it comes to bread and water, we simply consume it. But a branch is a part of the whole, an extension of the vine. The branch is not essential to the vine of course - it’s the other way around. But what an honor and weight it is for us. Let’s quickly notice 2 things. First, what bears the fruit? Is it the vine? No. It’s the branches. You and I are the extension of the vine into the world. The fruit that belongs to the vine is manifested by the branches. So when we or the world cries out, “Where is God?” we should be the first to throw up our hands, scream “Here!” and run to the rescue. We are the extension of Jesus. Second, this fruit is produced not by effort. Rather it is a natural byproduct of remaining in the vine. The vine does the work. The branch is simply a conduit. We are to remain in Jesus, specifically remain in His love. But how do we remain in His love? He tells us. By obeying His command. And what high moral, impossible, soul-crushing, costly command does He give? Simply to love one another. “Jesus, I want to remain in You. I want to see fruit in my life. Help me then to love those around me, the very ones You love.”