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Abiding Mission (John 15:1-8)
Ruth, 17 September 2017
Part of the The DNA of HBC series, Sunday Morning service
The vine was a national symbol of Israel. Jesus takes this picture and gives it new meaning when he tells his disciples, “I am the vine; you are the branches” and, “This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit …” What is the context that Jesus gives this picture and what does it really mean to abide in the vine? Abiding in Christ is a summons to mission not an invitation to settle down! As we consider this familiar picture let us ask, “What is God saying to us today?”
| Earlier: | Same day: | Later: |
|---|---|---|
| « Recognition and Repentance | None | Don’t stop the harvest » |
John 15:1–8 (Listen)
15:1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples.
(ESV)