"I Am..." How Jesus Reveals Himselfنموونە

Jesus compares himself with a vine, and His hearers with branches. The point is that only branches that are in the vine can bear fruit. “As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me.” (verse 4)

What does it mean to “abide in Jesus”? It means to have a strong relationship with Jesus, which will show itself in “bearing fruit” and “keeping his commandments”, thereby glorifying God. A fruitful life is only possible if we are connected to Jesus. If we abide in Him, we will be filled with His life giving power.

It matters a lot whether you bear fruit or not. “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” (verse 6). That is a severe warning for anyone who lives without Jesus.

Do you abide in the true vine?