Let's begin with a section of scripture found in the Gospel of John.
15 “I am the true vine and my Father is the gardener. 2 He (lifts up) every branch that does not bear fruit in me. He prunes every branch that bears fruit so that it will bear more fruit. 3 You are clean already because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, and I will remain in you. Just as the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it remains in the vine, so neither can you unless you remain in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in me—and I in him—bears much fruit, because apart from me you can accomplish nothing. 6 If anyone does not remain in me, he is thrown out like a branch, and dries up; and such branches are gathered up and thrown into the fire, and are burned up. 7 If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you want, and it will be done for you. 8 My Father is honored by this, that you bear much fruit and show that you are my disciples." - Jesus, John 15:1-8
This is what I read today. I want share with you some of my observations over the next few days as they were a great reminder for me and I hope they will be for you as well.
Observation #1
I think this passage is one of the most important passages in all the Bible. There are several reasons I think this, but for today I want to focus on one. This passage speaks to our position. Before reading further, I ask that you re-read the above passage. As you do, see if you can identify the "characters" within this story.
How many did you notice? I noticed 4.
The four are: the Gardner, the vine, the branch, and the fruit. Pop quiz...
"Which of the four are you?"
This a really important question. Not only to answer but to also think on this week. I say this because, although you know you are the "branch," we act like the "vine" and take credit for the "fruit."
Here's what I did and I ask you to do the same. Think on the above statement and then think on the following questions. How are you acting like the "vine?" What "fruit" are you taking credit for? If you're really brave, reach out to someone who is further along in their following Jesus and discuss this with them.
Have a blessed day,
Pastor Matt