Yass Community Baptist Church
This week we dig a bit deeper into John 15 and explore what abiding looks like according to Jesus.
John 15:1-17 NIV
What does abiding look like?
This week we take a deeper look at this passage to explore what abiding looks like according to Jesus. Next week we will take another look to think about what fruitfulness looks like.
Abiding in the Presence of God
This passage begins by Jesus describing who he, the Father and we are in relationship with one another. Vine, Gardner and branch. We are positioned connected to, in close proximity to the presence of God.
Abiding is about pursuing connection with Jesus and living in the knowledge of the Father's constant presence in our lives.
John 15:1-6 NIV
Abiding in His Word
Jesus speaks of his disciples being pruned by his word. He also speaks of not just his followers remaining in his word, but his words remaining in them.
Abiding is about being immersed deeply in God's word so that his word dwells in us.
John 15:3 NIV
John 15:7 NIV
Abiding in His Love
To abide in Jesus is to abide in love. Not just any kind of love but the greatest kind of love. The same love that the Father has for Jesus, the same love that Jesus describes as the greatest love, the same love that is demonstrated on the cross.
Abiding is about living in the knowledge and awareness that we are deeply loved by Jesus and remaining in that love
John 15:9-13 NIV
Abiding in Obedience
Obedience is not a popular concept today. Jesus says that if we keep his commands we will remain in him and his love. This is not mere legalism, but valuing what Jesus has told us is important to him. Key to obedience is trusting that God's ways are higher than our own.
Abiding is about seeking to live in obedience to Jesus.
John 15:10 NIV
Abiding in His Joy
Jesus hope was that the fullness of his joy would dwell within his disciples and that their joy may be complete.
Abiding is about dwelling in the joy that comes from knowing Jesus.
John 15:11 NIV
Abiding in Friendship
Jesus speaks of his disciples as friends not servants. He does this because he has revealed to them all that the Father revealed to him. We are certainly called to serve Jesus, but he calls us friends.
Abiding is about cultivating friendship with Jesus.
John 15:14-15 NIV
LIFE GROUPS
As our life groups gather this week, we have attached our reference verse and some questions to prompt a deeper discussion and search into this week's topic.
If you are not currently part of a life group, and would like to join a small group of like minded people in fellowship and connection during the week, please contact Nick on 0417472474 to register your interest.
Life Group Discussion - Read John 15:1-17 above
1. If you have been participating in the 21 days of prayer and fasting devotional, share an insight or a thought that from your times of devotions.
2. What do you think of when you think about "abiding" in Jesus?
3. How would you describe the closeness of your relationship with Jesus at the moment?
4. From the reading, what aspect of abiding in Jesus most stands out to you? Why?
5. Is there an aspect of abiding in Jesus that you are not experiencing at the moment?
6. How could you move closer in your abiding relationship with Jesus?
7. Take some time to pray for each other.
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