Christian Free-Lutheran Church -- Sermons and Services -- John 15:1-17

John 15:1-17
Pastor Eric Swenson
Christian Free Lutheran Church Wheatland, IA

March 7, 2010

Abiding in the Vine

1. Jesus the true vine and God the gardener
  A. God prunes a way the branches that bear no fruit
    1. Israelites for their unbelief Romans 11:17-24
    2. Anger, wrath, malice, slander, abusive speech
      Colossians 3:8
  B. God also prunes the branches that bear fruit

2. Being a branch that producing more fruit
  A. Abiding in the true vine is the only way
    Abide used 10 times in vs. 4-11
    Abide in me; abide in my Word; abide in my love
  B. Abiding in Jesus produces fruit that brings glory to God
    Bearing fruit proves that you are Jesus’ disciple
    Fruits of the Spirit, love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, faithfulness, gentleness, self control; Galatians 5:22-23
  C. Without Jesus you can produce no real fruit

3. Jesus’ love for his friends
  A. Love one another as He loved you
  B. Jesus calls you friend

4. You did not chose the vine but the vine chose you
  A. Chosen to go and bear fruit
  B. Your fruit would remain