I AM Part 8: The True Vine
John 15:1-17, Isaiah 5:1-7, Psalm 80:8-18
Memory Verse:
“I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”
John 15:5
Message Reflection Questions
Start in silence, recognizing the presence of Jesus. Imagine yourself as a branch and Jesus as the vine.
Read Isaiah 5:1-7 and Psalm 80:8-18. How does the imagery of vine and vineyard show God’s relationship with Israel?
Read John 15:1-17. Knowing that Jews viewed their nation as the vine, why is it significant that Jesus called himself the “True Vine?”
How does Jesus’ relationship with His Father serve as a pattern for our relationship with God?
What does it mean to “remain in Jesus” as the vine? Why is that vital for serving others?
What do John 15:6-7, 16, 16:23-24, and 14:12-14 teach us about praying and living according to Jesus?
What do you need pruned in your life so that you can be more fruitful in Christ?
Close in prayer.
LENTEN READINGS BEGIN NEXT WEEK
Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, which is next week. You can sign up to receive daily Lenten devotionals or grab a physical copy at church next week. Go to www.stillnaz.com/subscribe-lent to sign up for the daily emails.
Daily Readings
We are finishing the gospel of John this week before Lent. As we read, follow the guidance for reading below.
Monday: John 19:28-42
Tuesday: John 20:1-18
Wednesday: John 20:19-30
Thursday: John 21:1-14
Friday: John 21:15-25
Helpful Instructions for reading
Start with silence. Recognize that the Jesus in scripture is the Jesus with you where you are.
Thank God for something that happened in the last 24 hours.
Keep a list of names and descriptions of Jesus from the text. If someone calls him “messiah” write down Messiah, if he’s friendly, write down “friendly.” Ask: how can I receive Jesus as “Messiah” or “friendly”?
Finish in prayer for yourself, your family, your neighbors, your co-workers, your church. Pray through the nations at www.prayercast.com/nations.html.