Fruit Happens
Fruit Happens
“I am the vine; you are the branches. The one who remains in Me and I in him produces much fruit, because you can do nothing without Me.” (John 15:5)
Jesus, the Vine
Jesus called Himself “the vine” and called His people “the branches.” In calling Himself the vine, Jesus meant He is the true source of life. His life originates in Himself (see John 5:26). Our life, however—like that of a branch—is dependent on and derived from Jesus, as are any of the good works we do.
Unfortunately, many Christians burn themselves out striving to produce their own version of the fruit of the Spirit, not realizing what a misguided waste of time this is, since true fruit is always and only the by-product of connection to the vine. Any branch that remains in Him, constantly cultivating relationship with Christ, is sure to produce “much fruit.”
Branch Openings
Jesus warned us that we can do nothing of spiritual value without Him. Human effort can never produce a fruitful life. Only Jesus can live the victorious Christian life. But because He lives in intimate connection with you, He can reproduce His life and character through you.
The secret of Christlikeness is not imitation but rather habitation. It is Christ in you. He indwells you to make you what He says you should be. Your prime directive is to remain in Him. Abide in Christ. Nurture your connection to the Vine. Continually turn from self to Christ, and you will produce much fruit.
Bottom Line
Stay close to Christ and your life will be fruitful. He is the Vine, and you are a branch.