“I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:5
Jesus is talking about something of great importance: that we remain and abide in Him. The word “remain” points to a continuous relationship with Jesus. From Him we receive constant spiritual sustenance, like a vine growing and being nourished from water.
While I was serving on Okinawa, the pastor of our church became a wonderful friend. I learned from him what it meant to have Jesus in my life. He himself had spent years searching for freedom in Christ. He read books, attended conferences, fellowshipped with other pastors, debated theology and doctrine, but still felt uncertain. It wasn’t until he saturated his life with the gospels and Jesus that he was transformed. I and many others learned what it means to “remain” or abide in Christ, to be transformed both in heart and mind.
Are you aching to know God? Delve into the gospels and focus on Jesus. You’ll see the beauty of prayer (v. 7), the resulting joy (v. 11), and an outpouring of love (v. 12). Most of all, you’ll realize that apart from Jesus you can do nothing.
While I was serving on Okinawa, the pastor of our church became a wonderful friend. I learned from him what it meant to have Jesus in my life. He himself had spent years searching for freedom in Christ. He read books, attended conferences, fellowshipped with other pastors, debated theology and doctrine, but still felt uncertain. It wasn’t until he saturated his life with the gospels and Jesus that he was transformed. I and many others learned what it means to “remain” or abide in Christ, to be transformed both in heart and mind.
Are you aching to know God? Delve into the gospels and focus on Jesus. You’ll see the beauty of prayer (v. 7), the resulting joy (v. 11), and an outpouring of love (v. 12). Most of all, you’ll realize that apart from Jesus you can do nothing.
Scripture Focus
John 15:1-17
Insight
Christ’s lordship in our lives will impact our decisions, activities, and priorities, fulfilling His call upon us.
Bible In A Year
- 2 Samuel 19
- Psalm 145
- 2 Thessalonians 1-3
