“Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.” John 15:2
John, Chapters 14-17 are called the “Farewell Discourse”. Here we have recorded the Words Jesus spoke to His Disciples right after the Last Supper and before they entered the Garden of Gethsemane. They are also unique to the Gospels, as John is the only writer to record them. It’s one of the reasons that His Gospel is so loved today and the favorite of many Christians. Well, it just so happens that John 15 is one of my favorite chapters in the Bible and finds my mind often reflecting on it. Here are some of my thoughts.
Jesus is the Vine! Are you one of His branches? Do you bear fruit? Questions like these “Must” be asked by everyone who considers themself a Christian. No matter what your Experience or Belief, about what a Christian is, or is not, this is where the Rubber meets the Road. This is what defines True, Authentic, and Biblical Christianity!!! Yes, you must “Believe” Jesus is the Son of God and confess Him before men; but if you have True Faith that has saved and delivered you from a Lifestyle of Sin, then you “will” have Fruit! Do you bear fruit?
Ah this is my struggle. Am I good enough? Do I do enough? Do I, have I borne fruit? How am I to know?
Mine too! I think True Christians struggle with the Tension of this Reality. Here are a couple of links to articles that say it way better than I can. Let me know your thoughts after you read them.
https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/how-we-bear-fruit
https://www.ligonier.org/learn/devotionals/fruit-spirit