NT Fire Starters – Day 150: John 15:1-17

READ: John 15:1-17

THINK: Have you ever picked flowers because they looked pretty? How long did they stay that way? A few days at best. In reality, no matter how nice they looked, they started dying and stopped producing from the moment they were detached from their source. The same is true of people. No matter how they appear, they’ll wither and die spiritually unless they are connected to their life Source. But if you are joined to God through a personal relationship with Jesus, you’ll grow as He intended and God will produce something beautiful through you.

RESPOND: How does the analogy of the vine and branches illustrate Jesus’ relationship with His followers? (See 15:1 note.) What two types of branches does Jesus describe, and what ultimately happens to them? (See 15:2 note.) What does this mean in terms of people’s relationships with Jesus? What does it mean when Jesus tells his followers, “Remain in me.”? (See 15:4 note.) How do you do this, and what will be the result if you do? (See 15:9-10 note.) What warning does Jesus give about staying connected to Him? (See 15:6 note.) Why is vital for you to continue to grow spiritually? What is the condition for getting what you pray for? (See 15:7 note.) If you’re in a close relationship with Jesus, what types of things will you desire and ask for in prayer (cf. v. 8)? How can you prove your friendship to Jesus (v. 14)? What’s the ultimate display of love and friendship, and how did Jesus do this for you (v. 13)? What benefits, privileges and responsibilities come with being Jesus’ friend (v. 15)? (See 15:16 note.) For what purpose has God chosen and appointed you (v. 16)? What does it mean to “bear fruit” spiritually?

PRAY: Ask Jesus to help you stay strongly connected to Him by obeying His Word, following His purposes and growing continually in your relationship with Him.

ACT: Pay attention to plants and trees today. Notice how the leaves and flowers connect to the main stems or branches, and how branches connect to the trunk. The outer parts can only sustain life as they remain attached to the main source. Consider how this illustrates your relationship with God and your ability to be spiritually fruitful. Sit under a tree and read the Bible for a few minutes, reviewing today’s passage and gaining life from God’s Word.