(a) What did Jesus teach about Himself as the True Vine? (b) In what three ways is this teaching significant to Christians?

(a) Jesus' teaching about Himself as the True Vine (John 15:1-11)

Jesus said, "I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser." He taught the following:

• Every branch in Him that bears no fruit, the Father takes away; and every branch that does bear fruit, He prunes, that it may bear more fruit.
• The disciples were already clean (pruned) because of the word He had spoken to them.
• He urged them, "Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me."
• "I am the vine, you are the branches. He who abides in me, and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing."
• Anyone who does not abide in Him is cast forth as a branch and withers; such branches are gathered, thrown into the fire and burned.
• If they abide in Him and His words abide in them, they may ask whatever they will and it shall be done for them.
• By bearing much fruit they glorify the Father and prove to be His disciples.
• He called them to abide in His love and keep His commandments, as He kept His Father's commandments, so that His joy might be in them and their joy might be full.

(b) Three ways this teaching is significant to Christians

• It teaches that Christians must remain united with Christ through faith, obedience and fellowship, for without Him they can do nothing.
• It shows that a true Christian must bear good fruit, that is, a life of good works and Christian virtues, to the glory of God.
• It warns that fruitless, unfaithful believers will be cut off and judged, encouraging perseverance and fruitfulness.