John 15:7-11

Lesson 40

Background Notes

Doctrinal/Teaching Points

1. Much fruit brings glory to the Father.
2. Much fruit is proof of discipleship.

Practical Application

Right now you can say that it doesn’t get any better than this.

Questions

1. What is the purpose of a vine?
2. What is the fruit that brings glory to the Father?
3. What is the connection between fruit bearing and prayer?
4. What does it mean, “Much fruit is proof of discipleship”?
5. What is the difference between a disciple and a follower of Christ?

Answers

1. To bear fruit.
2. The fruit of the Spirit (see Galatians 5:22-23) and the fruit of the believers’ labor in Christian service.
3. See John 15:6-7. Answered prayer is a form of fruit bearing. It is a means of God’s will being carried out (this assumes that the prayers are in the will of God).
4. Obedience is crucial to abiding in Christ, and thus discipleship and fruit bearing become a reality in the life of a disciple.
5. The true disciple is more than just a follower, because he is obeying the word of the Lord. He bears fruit because he obeys Christ. A follower, on the other hand, may be serving the Lord, but disobeying whatever portions of the word that he chooses.

Discuss/Consider

1. Are you a disciple or a follower of Jesus Christ?
2. Is the fruit of the Spirit seen in you? How are you manifesting the fruit of your labor?

Challenge

Are you abiding in Jesus’ love? Is your joy full?

Memorize

• “By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit; so you will be my disciples.” John 15:8
• “If you keep My commandments, you will abide in My love.” John 15:10
• “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full.” John 15:11