John 15:1 I am the true vine, and my Father is the farmer. is — I. DERIVED FROM CHRIST. Religion is not a mere creed or form; it is a life, and the life is a "branch" of Christ's life. It grows out of Him. There is no true spiritual life where Christ's spirit is not the inspiration. II. DEVELOPED IN FRUITFULNESS. The production of fruit is what is required; it is not to pass off in foliage and blossom. Unless we yield fruit we are worthless and doomed to destruction. What is the fruit? "Love, joy peace," etc. III. THE JOINT AGENCY OF GOD AND MAN. 1. Man must seek an abiding connection with Christ. Cut the branch from the tree, it will wither and rot. 2. God must act the part of the Great Husbandman. The mere abiding in Christ will not do of itself. (D. Thomas, D. D.) Parallel Verses KJV: I am the true vine, and my Father is the husbandman. |
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