I AM THE VINE

At the last supper, Jesus, knowing what was about to happen, offers one last audacious claim to his disciples. In preparing them for what was about to take place (His crucifixion), He says in John 15:1 that He is the true vine. 

Jesus goes on to remove any potential misunderstandings about what He is saying. He speaks of the importance of removing any branches that do not bear fruit and pruning the ones that do so that they would bear more. Isn’t this exactly what Jesus does? At times, He removes things from our lives, things that from our perspective may seem good for us but, for the health and protection of our home or livelihood, He removes or closes the door on. He does this out of love and protection for His children. 

When Jesus speaks about being the true vine, He is speaking of His identity and purpose and explaining how His desire for each and every one of us is to grow in righteousness or right standing with Him. 

He reiterates that His desire is that we would bear fruit and much of it, not simply for our own benefit but so that others would know that we are His disciples. 

As believers of Jesus Christ, our life is found in our connection to the one who gives it. Jesus is the vine and not just any vine but the True Vine. The word for true in the Greek language means real, genuine and trustworthy. He is the trustworthy Vine that we can connect with to draw life abundantly. 

Practical application:

What aspects of your life might God be pruning at this time? In what areas of your life can you see the evidence of the fruit of the Spirit? Take a moment to pray and ask God to help you stay connected to Him, the True Vine, amidst the busyness of your day.