The True Vine

Jesus wanted us to know He was the source of life when He said “I am the True Vine.” Cut off a branch and the vine lives. Cut off the vine and the branch dies. It is a basic law of agriculture. What is our duty our responsibility to maintaining a healthy relationship with the True Vine that assures spiritual fruit? Jesus gives us the answer. Our duty is to remain in Him. John 15:4-5 reads, Remain in me, and I will remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing. These words are Jesus’ version of, “Don’t let go of my hand.” Like a kindergarten teacher who makes her students stay close as they walk to the cafeteria, Jesus wanted His people to stay close so none will be missing when the heavenly roll is called.
 
The True Vine is our lifeblood. Life originates in the vine, not the branch. Jesus gives us life and the nutrients to sustain continued life. Jesus is the life that flows through the branches that generates good fruit. Put your hand in the hand of the True Vine and really live. 

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Clark Tatum