“I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. . . Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.1
Vineyards were common during Jesus’ era (even up the present, particularly in Europe); so using the analogy of the vine and the vinedresser paints a vivid picture of the relationship between we and our fruit. The fruitful growth of the vine is dependent on the work of the vinedresser. Likewise, we may equate “taking away” (other bible versions use cuts off) and “pruning” to God’s discipline or the process of sanctification for his children. The Father’s directive is to re-mold and re-fashion us into the likeness of his Son.2 For the moment all discipline seems painful rather than pleasant, but later it yields the peaceful fruit of righteousness to those who have been trained by it.3
Note, the presumption or the premise is that you diligently seek God’s Word. I love those who love me, and those who seek me diligently find me.4 “And now, O sons, listen to me; blessed are those who keep my ways. . . . Blessed is the one who listens to me, watching daily at my gates, waiting beside my doors. For whoever finds me finds life and obtains favor from the LORD, but he who fails to find me injures himself; all who hate me love death.”5
To abide means to remain, dwell, or continue in a specific place or state, emphasizing a deep, ongoing connection.6 My son, do not forget my teaching, but let your heart keep my commandments; for length of days and years of life and peace they will add to you. Let not steadfast love and faithfulness forsake you; . . . So you will find favor and good success in the sight of God and man.7 “If you abide in my words, you are truly my disciples, and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free.”8
Then I said, “Behold, I have come; in the scroll of the book it is written of me: I delight to do your will, O my God; your law is within my heart.”9 I hold back my feet from every evil way, in order to keep your word. I do not turn aside from your rules, for you have taught me. How sweet are your words to my taste, sweeter than honey to my mouth! Through your precepts I get understanding; therefore I hate every false way.10
I stretch out my hands to you; my soul thirsts for you like a parched land. Teach me to do your will for you are my God! Let your good Spirit lead me on level ground!11 AMEN!
Notes:
1. John 15:1-5
2. 2 Corinthians 3:17-18
3. Hebrews 12:11
4. Proverbs 8:17
5. Proverbs 8:32-36
6. https://biblehub.com/topical/a/abide.htm
7. Proverbs 3:1-4
8. John 8:31-32
9. Psalm 40:7-8
10. Psalm 119:101-104
11: Psalm 143:6, 10
