March 29, 2020 - Ken Pierce
Songs from Sunday Morning
- Blessed Be The Name of the Lord - Matt Redman
- O Praise The Name (Anastasis) - Hillsong Worship
- Holy Water - We The Kingdom
Study Questions:
Question: If you would have been a follower of Jesus back in the 1st Century…what do you think you would have done: Gone near the cross or kept your distance?
Beginning in John 13, Jesus gives a series of farewell addresses that continue until chapter 17. He knows that he will soon be lifeless on a tree — the crucified King. And in the middle of it all, he graciously reminds us to stay close him…by abiding in Him.
This will also lead us to be bearers of His kind of “fruit.”
Read John 15:1-11
Because the term “Abide” is so central to this passage, here’s a definition that will be helpful:
1. to remain stable or fixed in a state a love that abided with Christ all his days. 2. to continue in a place : sojourn will abide in the house of the Lord.
Also, “Abide by" 1. to conform to, abide by the rules. 2. to accept without objection : to acquiesce in will abide by your decision. (www.merriam-webster.com)
Question: Jesus identifies himself as the vine. What is this comparison meant to teach? (For deeper consideration and insight, see Colossians 1:15-20)
Question: Jesus compares the disciples (his followers) to branches. What does this teach us about their inherent capabilities?
Question: Jesus is speaking about the branches' need to stay connected to the vine, so what clues does he give to what 'abiding' in Christ mean?
Question: In John 15:5, Jesus promises that those who abide in him will bear fruit. What is this fruit? (For deeper consideration and insight, compare John 13:35; 15:8, 12; and Matt 5:16.)
Application Question: What one step can you take today to abide…stay close to Jesus?