A Two-Way Relationship
John 15:1-5
Pastor Jerry Koller

Verse 1 - To illustrate a spiritual truth, Jesus uses a word picture.

Verse 2 - We see a description of the interaction the vine has with the vinedresser.

• The branches that are in the vine will bear fruit because that is what they are designed to do.
• Jesus is speaking of an action that the vinedresser takes. Any branch that does not produce fruit, the vinedresser removes.

The verb “prunes” can also be understood or translated cleanse.

Verse 3 - The word “purges,” or “cleanses” in verse 2 comes from the same word that is translated “clean” in verse 3.

Verse 4 - It is to these fruit-bearing branches that the remainder of this word picture is directed. Jesus explains in greater detail what He illustrated in the first three verses.
• The word abide, in regard to a relationship, means to exist permanently in, inseparably united.
• We can’t have a relationship with Him without Him being in us.

There is more His phrase “and I in him.” If you abide in Me, and My words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (John 15:7)
• The Greek word used here is the word rhema.

Differences:
Logos embraces the broader, comprehensive message. It is a complete interconnected system of reason and truth.
Rhema, on the other hand, focuses on a specific utterance—spoken, remembered, or freshly quickened by the Spirit.

Words that proceed out of the mouth of God is the idea that is expressed in John 15:10: If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love; just as I have kept My Father’s commandments and abide in His love. (John 15:10)

When we abide in Christ and His word, then our desires become the same as Christ’s desires. God receives the glory due His name.

That is why Jesus said, My Father is glorified by this, that you bear much fruit, and so prove to be My disciples. (John 15:8)

mission café
Sundays | 9:00-10:15am | Mission Cafe

worship
Sundays | 10:30am | Sanctuary
• If you're unable to join us in-person, you can watch live on Facebook or view later in the week on Facebook or YouTube or listen to an audio only version on Archive.

children’s worship
Sundays | 10:30am | Children’s Worship Room
• Ages 5 years old through 5th grade
• Does not meet on the first Sunday of each month.
• Contact Alyssa Newell for questions or more information.

men’s bible study
Tuesdays | 7:00-8:30pm | Mission Café
• Contact Paul Fitton or Larry Dobberstein for questions or more information.

church office open
Wednesdays | 11:00am-4:00pm

theology class
Wednesdays | 7:00-8:00pm | Main Foyer
• Closed course.

women’s craft group
Thursdays | 6:30pm | Craft Room
• Contact Tracy Marshall for questions or more information.

coming soon
• Bridal Shower: Julie Newell | 8/23 | 2-4:30pm | Upstairs at FBC

• Gail Peacock (sister-in-law of Joyce Bocock) who has a rare lung disease that is affecting her oxygen and breathing.
• Alyssa Newell has been diagnosed with Lupus. She has an appointment in September to discuss a management plan; pray that the treatment options are successful.
• Joyce Bocock has a large hematoma in her thigh which is causing a significant amount of pain and making it difficult for her to walk.
• Marge Benham has a lump on her shoulder that has been found to be cancerous. She will have radiation and surgery this summer and the doctors are confident this is treatable and beatable.
• Dylan Goff's fiance, Taylor, who is recovering from a stroke and will probably have a procedure done to repair a hole in her heart within the next few weeks.
• Bruce Ferguson is recovering from a procedure to prepare his prostate and bladder for radiation. Pray that everything heals properly.
• Check out our monthly prayer card on-line at southhavenfbc.com under “Weekly Bulletins” for a list of those with on-going needs.

First Baptist Church
1635 76th Street
South Haven, MI 49090
269-637-1291
southhavenfbc@gmail.com