August 30, 2023

John 15:5-8 (HCSB)
5 “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. 6 If anyone does not remain in Me, he is thrown aside like a branch and he withers. They gather them, throw them into the fire, and they are burned. 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 glorified by this: that you produce much fruit and prove to be My disciples.

TW Mitchell
Seasonal Christians are much like seasonal vines that produce fruit and berries, only at certain times. Seasoned Christians, on the other hand like a branch, are grafted into the Lord’s awesome vine that doesn’t dry up or wither. In Him we are constantly connected by His all sufficient, never-ending source of power. God abides in us likewise. His Spirit bears witness within us and around us every day. He says whoever abides (or continues) with Him will bear much fruit. Disciples have the awesome joy to continue in the love of God through His Son Jesus Christ, bearing much fruit. Unfortunately, unbelievers don’t have this joy found only in Jesus Christ. Part of fruit bearing is to pray for and present the message of salvation to unbelievers and invite them to receive Christ. Verse 8 says “My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples” (NASB).