Theory question 106
Teachings of Jesus about Himself(a) What did Jesus teach about Himself as the True Vine? (b) In what three ways is this teaching significant to Christians?
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(a) "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser" (John 15:1).
He prunes fruitful branches and removes unfruitful ones (John 15:2).
The disciples are already clean by His word (John 15:3).
Abide in Him; a branch cannot bear fruit by itself (John 15:4).
"I am the vine, you are the branches… apart from me you can do nothing" (John 15:5).
Branches that do not abide are thrown away and burnt (John 15:6).
If His words abide in them, their prayers will be answered; the Father is glorified by their fruit (John 15:7-8).
Abide in His love by keeping His commandments; love one another (John 15:9-12).
(b) Any three: Christians depend on Christ for spiritual life; they must bear fruit in good works; God disciplines to make them better; prayer is answered for those who abide; love and obedience are essential; unfruitfulness brings judgement.
Explain John 15:1-12, then three points.