Read: John 15
Watch: https://bibleproject.com/explore/video/tree-of-life/
At the heart of Jesus’ message is the image of being connected. The vine with its unseen roots going deep into the soil, draws up nutrients. The branches spread out receiving light and producing fruit.
Jesus said, “I AM the vine; you are the branches.” This is a beautiful image of something so close. We are connected to the source of life through Jesus. Our Creator-Father is the source of all life and love. Jesus, our mediator, is the base. As we remain in union with Him, we receive everything we need for life and godliness.
We were made for relationship— first with God, then with others. We are born into relationship and need others. All of life is about relationship. Most of the pain and loneliness we feel is related to broken relationships.
Jesus came to heal and restore relationship! First, to restore our broken relationship with God because of sin. Then, through abiding in Christ, our relationships with others may be restored. The key is being connected to Christ.
Jesus said, “Remain in me… remain in my love.” As we stay connected to Jesus we receive His love and joy. He is the source of all we need. He is also the source for what others need. Love is our connection. As we give and receive love from the Father and Jesus, we cooperate and love those around us who are also connected to the vine. Our life becomes intertwined with others. We each produce fruit of blessings and abundance.
Jesus didn’t suggest we love others; He outright commanded it. This means we must allow the love of Christ to flow through us to each other. If we remain in Him and His Word, we can ask, and His life and love will flow through us. This is how we remain friends with Him and others.
Pray: Jesus, help me to remain in you! Help me to stay connected to you, allowing your love and life to flow through me to others.
Discussion Questions:
- How does abiding in Christ help restore broken relationships?
- What are some practical ways to allow Christ’s love to flow through us to others?
- How can we tell if we are bearing spiritual fruit in our lives?
- How are you loving others as Jesus did?
Thanks, Mark. We’ll be in Madrid next week and would line to see you two.
Dave and Robin Johnson (and Wesley).