I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. --John 15:5----------The concept is not a difficult one. Branches on their own cannot produce fruit. They have to be connected to the main tree or vine. Cut a branch off of a grapevine and it will ceases to produce grapes anymore.----------In John 15, Jesus illustrates the importance of our connection to Christ as fundamental in our development as followers of Him. Apart from Him, whatever good deeds we might do, whatever sacrifices we may make, etc. will not truly be beneficial to us in our growth and maturity. In addition, we will not have the type of ongoing relationship with the Father that will be "fruitful" for impact in our community, our neighborhoods, our families, etc.
