Day 17 ~ John 15-19

The parable of The Vine and the Branches at the beginning of John 15 is an extremely important set of scripture for a Christian’s life. Jesus is explaining the relationship that is expected of Christians with Jesus and that of Christians and the world. John 15:2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. This passage explains how Christ distinguishes between true faithful Christians and counterfeit Christians. John 15:5 If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit. If you are in Christ and Christ in you; you will bear fruit. However, there are people who believe something about Jesus and yet will not commit their lives to Him and trust Him as their personal Savior. Judas Iscariot is a prime example of this. Do you think he was a branch that was cut off the vine?

Let’s take a look at Cowboy Fellowship’s Mission. Our mission is to encourage non-Christians to become Christians and Christians to become more like Christ. This is a two part mission. First is to bring the lost to Christ (bear fruit). John 15:8 This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples. Second is to make disciples-Christians more like Christ. John 15:16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you to go and bear fruit-fruit that will last.

I leave you with one thought. Does your family, friends, and associates see you remaining in Christ’s love through obeying His Word and having joy in bearing fruit? If not, why not, and how can you change this?

Wilson Winn