Galatians 5:22-26 & John 15:1-17
Jesus was heading to his death as he gave these words to his friends – the disciples. If you knew you were going to die tomorrow, what would be your parting words to your closest friends or your children?
What is your reaction to Jesus’ assertion that he is the One true vine, the true Israel and by implication – the fulfillment of God’s plans to bless all nations of the world?
One of Jesus’ favorite words was menō, often translated “remain in,” “stay in,” “rest in”, or “abide.” It describes a profound, intimate, and enduring relationship (John 8:31, John 14:10-11). The mutual indwelling between God and the believer is, an enduring, permanent, and eternal relationship (1 John 2:14-17). In what ways do you find yourself abiding in that which is ephemeral, inauthentic, dying, unfruitful, decaying, imperfect, or fading? How might your false attachments interfere with your experience of the fullness of joy? Of the images that Jesus uses in this text which ones give you the great sense of security and hope?
What are ways God is at work pruning you? In what ways has God been at work in you to produce the fruit of the Spirit (Gal 5:22-26)?
Love:
Joy:
Peace:
Patience:
Kindness:
Goodness:
Faithfulness:
Gentleness:
self-control:
One of the reasons we can share in Christ’s joy is because we are cleansed by his word (John 15:3). Which words of Christ do you find particularly “cleansing”?
We can share Christ’s joy because by God’s give us BOTH humility about ourselves (John 15:5) and confidence in God (John 15:7). In what ways do you experience this humility and confidence? Are there times when you tend to experience one at the expense of the other? What is different about those times of imbalance?
We can share Christ’s joy because the Father Connects us with Love. What would it mean for you to love others as Jesus loved His disciples and as He has loved you (John13:34; John 15:12-13)? What are some specific acts of love that God might be calling you to do this week?
