Bible Text: John 15:1-4 | Preacher: Pastor Joe Ricchuiti | Series: John, The Abundant Life

Recap of 1/6/13 (John 15:1-4):
1.  The secret to the productive (ie.fruitful) Christian life is a close, intimate relationship with Jesus Christ (abiding or remaining in Him).  Productivity is seen in terms of character and relationship.  Galatians 5:22-24 see fruitfulness in terms of love, joy, peace, patience, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.  In 2 Peter 1:5-8 Peter see productivity in terms of increasing goodness, knowledge, self-control, perseverance, godliness, brotherly kindness, and love built upon the foundation of faith.
 
2.  Jesus calls Himself the “true vine,” the seventh of the “I am” statements in the Book of John.  The vine was a familiar symbol for the nation of Israel, but they became a corrupt vine which produced only rotten fruit (Psalm 80:8,9 & Isaiah 5:1-7).  God the Father is the gardener who cares for the vine, those who are in Jesus. 
 
3.  The branches of the vine are lifted-up off the ground and cleaned (pruned) to make them productive.  It is the Word of God which cleanses the believer.
 
4.  “7 Ways the Bible Can Make Your Life Better” from Psalm 119 (from the Daily Walk Bible).  The Bible will:
 
-keep us from sin, vs. 11
 
-lift our burdens, vs. 28
 
-guide our steps, vs. 105
 
-bring us joy, vs. 111
 
-lead us to wisdom, vs. 130
 
-give us peace, vs. 165
 
-bring us back to God, vs. 176