Our Mission Is Clear

As Christ followers our mission is clear. We are commanded to make disciples of all nations. The last words
that Jesus spoke to His disciples before He returned to heaven after His crucifixion and resurrection from the
dead are recorded in Matthew 28:19-20. Jesus commands His followers to, “Go and make disciples of all nations,
baptizing them in the name of the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I
have commanded you.”

Interestingly, we are not commanded to make converts, or Christians, but disciples. In fact, the word “Christian”
is found only three times in the Bible, but the word “disciple” is found 269 times. The New Testament is a book
about disciples, by disciples, and for disciples of Jesus Christ. Jesus knew that the need for disciples to become
disciple-makers and carry on His ministry of reconciliation on earth was imperative; and 2,000 years later, the
need for disciples carry on Christ’s ministry is just as important as it was then.

Most Christ-followers are familiar with “The Great Commission” found in Matthew 28:19-20. However, many of us
leave out an important phrase after this command. It is found at the end of Matthew 28:20 where Jesus says, “And
surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.” In this passage, Jesus has just laid out the challenging task
of making disciples of all nations, baptizing and teaching others all that He has spent three teaching His disciples.

He is saying, “Take everything I have taught you and modeled for you and then reproduce it in others all over the
world.” He is reminding His disciples that what He has taught them is not only for the but for the whole world.
And the very last words that Christ says to these disciples that He so dearly loves, that He even dies for, is this:
“And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”

For Group and Individuals

These lessons are written to be done in a small group, so you’ll find illustrations, activities and ice breakers that
might be helpful with 6-15 people. However, you can certainly do this study on-your-own by just skipping those
parts and getting directly to the Word. Whatever your context—small group or individual—we hope you enjoy
learning how to Abide.

Copyright © 2021 Gene Mason. All rights reserved. Permission is granted to download, distribute and reprint “Abide” for personal
or small group use. Mass printing, distribution and/or sale is prohibited. Scriptures taken from the Holy Bible, New International
Version®, NIV®. Copyright © 1973, 1978, 1984, 2011 by Biblica, Inc.™ Used by permission of Zondervan. All rights reserved
worldwide. www.zondervan.com The “NIV” and “New International Version” are trademarks registered in the United States Patent
and Trademark Office by Biblica, Inc.™
 LESSON 1 because in John 15, Jesus paints a word picture (a
parable) of the truth that He will be with His disciples

KNOW YOUR POSITION and bear fruit through them always. Jesus’ work
on earth was almost complete and He was heading
to the cross. He had spent three years teaching,
Matthew 28:20… Never Alone modeling and training the future leaders of the
What a paradoxical statement, just before the disciples church. He was entrusting to these imperfect leaders
watch Jesus ascend into heaven, physically leaving earth. the future of the ministry He began on earth. He
He is reminding them that they are not and will not be had spoken to them clearly at the Last Supper about
alone. Even though He is leaving them physically, His what was about to happen. He was on the way to the
power and presence will be with them always through Garden of Gethsemane to pray for them and for all of
the coming Holy Spirit. And His power and presence in us who would believe as a result of their faithfulness
their lives will be the only way they can accomplish the to the mission He laid out for them.
command to make disciples of all nations.
Christ wanted to be sure they understood the
The same is true of us today. The only way we can importance of total dependence upon Him to
accomplish Christ’s command to make disciples of all complete their mission even though He would no
nations is through His power and presence at work longer be physically present with them. He wanted
in us and through us. The questions and problems we them to know that everything hinged on a deep,
face, with respect to Jesus’ command, are usually not intimate relationship with Him, where they gave up
theological in nature, but are of a “practical” nature. trying to please God in their own human strength,
These practical issues are what this study series is and relied on His power at work in them. So Jesus
going to address. stopped on the way to the Garden to give them a
parable, a story picture, so they would not forget
The Key Question about intimacy and dependence upon Him.
“How?” is the key question that we struggle with the He told them the “Parable of the Vine” in John 15:1-17.
most. “Now that I’m a Christ-follower, how do I live The theme of this parable is best summarized in one
out my faith? At work? At home? All the time?” “How statement in John 15:5. It says, “I am the vine; you are
do I obey Christ’s command to make disciples of all the branches. If a man remains (abides) in Me and I in
nations?” “How does this look in my life on a day to him, he will bear much fruit; apart from Me you can
day basis?” “How do I begin?” “How do I grow up and do nothing.” In this parable is the secret of abundant
become an effective disciple?” These are practical living and fulfilling the Great Commission. According
questions. The good news is we serve a practical God! to this verse above, it is not by concentrating on
His Word does address and apply to everyday living. bearing fruit, or trying really hard to bear fruit, but by
remaining, or abiding, in Christ.
Throughout this study, we are going to uncover the
truths in God’s Word about that last phrase in the This study will concentrate on the absolute necessity
Great Commission (“…and surely I am with you always, of continuously abiding in the Vine, and how to do
to the very end of the age”) and how developing an that all day everyday so we can bear much fruit for
intimate relationship with Christ is the key to our day the glory of God. It is our hope that everyone who
to day lives as disciples and disciple-makers. If we can participates in this study will re-teach it to others as
grasp and understand practically that Christ is always they seek to make disciples of all nations.
with us, and learn to abide in that relationship, we
will discover God transforming our lives. And as He Abide—Know Your Position
transforms our lives to look more like Christ, our lives Key Passage: John 15:1-8; cross-references
will bear the fruit that Christ’s life bore—disciples. Lesson Goal: That we might be sure we are “in
We will find ourselves free from trying to “do” what Christ” and that He is “in us.” To understand that our
makes us feel “Christ-like” and instead of “being” who new position “in Christ” gives us a new identity that is
God created us to be. This is the abundant life that eternally secure. Therefore, we do not have to live in
Christ died in order to give us. guilt, fear, and shame anymore.

Additional Background for This Series Opening Activity Choices

Our study will focus on John 15:1-17. This passage is a Option One: Man’s Best Friend. Bring a photo
great parallel to that key statement in Matthew 28:20 of a dog (your own dog if you’d like) and display

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it so the group can see it. Lead your group in a Jesus says, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the
discussion of some reasons why dogs are considered gardener.” Then in verse 2, Jesus begins to discuss
“man’s best friend.” You may discuss things such as “branches” that are “in Me.” The branches are
companionship, loyalty, obedience, fun to play with, intended to “bear fruit,” and the passage explains how
protection, etc. Ask the group to discuss what makes the Father (the gardener) prunes and cuts off (which
a dog a good pet. How does a “good dog” relate to its literally means “to lift up”) these branches to cultivate
owner? fruit bearing through them.

Use this discussion to illustrate how well-trained In verse 4, Jesus makes clear that His followers are
dogs are constantly watching and responding to their these branches when He says, “No branch can bear
master. Well-trained dogs know and understand fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can
the commands of their master and respond to his you bear fruit unless you remain in Me.” You is always
leadership. Explain that this is a simple illustration of plural in this study. So in this parable we see that
what it means to remain (abide) in Christ. Christ is the vine, God the Father is the gardener,
Christ’s disciples are the branches, and the purpose of
Option Two: For Newer Groups. If your group is the branches is to bear fruit so that God’s name will
new, divide your group into 3 or 4 couples, or 3 or 4 be glorified among the nations.
single adults, and have them share something about
their family or self, and what they hope to get out Throughout this study, it will be important to
of the study. Remind everyone of the importance of remember who the “characters” are in this parable.
mutual acceptance, respect, trust, confidentiality, and Jesus outlines specifically for us who the vine,
engagement with the study as you grow together. gardener and branches are for a reason. Each
“character” has a purpose, role and position in fruit
Opening Prayer bearing. If the vine begins to act as the branch, or the
Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying branch tries to act as the gardener or the vine, no fruit
for your group. Pray that God will open the hearts of will result. And according to verse 16 in this passage,
every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new the purpose of our lives (the branches), is to bear fruit
way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray that will last so God will receive glory.
that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and
show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives Lead your group in a discussion of the key “characters”
in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified in this passage using the information provided above
through your discussion today. and the following questions. Make a list on the board
as your group identifies each “character.”
This Week’s Study
Using the series introduction at the beginning of the 1. How does Jesus identify and describe Himself and
lesson, explain to your group the background and His Father in verse 1?
foundation for the “Abide” series you are beginning 2. In verse 2, Jesus identifies branches. Where are
today. Have your group open their Bibles to John these branches according to verse 2?
15:1-17. Explain that this passage is the basis for our 3. Who do the branches represent in this parable?
study for the next 8 weeks. Have a volunteer read 4. Do the branches hold themselves in place, or
this passage aloud. Using the Lesson One Background does the vine hold the branches in place?
at the beginning of the lesson, explain the context of 5. What is the comparison Jesus makes in verse 4
this parable to the group. Now, explain that today’s between the branches and His disciples? How are
lesson will focus on verses 1-8. Have a volunteer read they alike?
verses 1-8 aloud again as the group follows along. 6. According to verse 4, what is the purpose of a
branch?
The Key Characters 7. According to verse 16, what is God’s purpose for
The first thing we need to do in order to properly His followers?
interpret and apply this passage is to identify and
define the key “characters” in this parable. It is Our New Position
important to remember that Jesus is telling this In John 15, Jesus supplies the answer to an unstated
story to His disciples so it is written in first person. question that every believer is likely to ask himself
So every time a personal pronoun such as “I” or “Me” at some time in his life, “how is my life going to be
is used, Christ is referring to Himself. In verse 1 different now?” “What do I have now that I have

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placed my faith in Christ that I did not before?” When and confess Him as our Lord and Savior He forgives
someone comes to faith in Christ, many times the our sins and makes us clean (see 1 John 1:9). Christ is
focus is on how his behavior should change instead of reminding His disciples that it is not their job to make
how his position has changed. The inner changes that themselves clean with a list of rules and regulations.
take place when we surrender our lives to Christ leads Christ has already made them clean.
to our outer changes in behavior; but many times we
think it is the other way around. We place too much Then, in verse 4, He tells them to abide in Him just
emphasis on “doing or not doing” certain things. like a branch abides in the vine so they can bear fruit.
At this point, it will be helpful to understand how
In this illustration from nature, Jesus tells us that the a vine and a branch relate to one another in nature
Christian life is based on a relationship, not religious since this is the example Christ gives us of how we
rules, regulations, or things we do. It is simply are to be in relationship with Him. In his book, The
a relationship between Christ and the individual True Vine, Andrew Murray discusses the branch and
disciple. In this parable, there is little focus on the its relationship to the vine. Murray points out that a
disciples “doing” anything except abiding in Christ branch is simply a piece of wood, produced by the vine
at all times. He illustrates this truth by using the for one purpose—to bear fruit.
example of a vine and its branches. Just as the vine
and its branches have an inner relationship in which Without the branch, the vine would bear no fruit. The
the sap of the vine flows through the branch and branch has only one purpose for existence—to bear
gives it life; the disciple of Christ should have a life- the fruit that the vine produces. The branch gives
receiving intimate relationship with Jesus Christ. This itself wholly to this purpose. In the same way, the
relationship should be the absolute focus of every Christ follower has one reason for being a branch—
disciple’s life. one reason for existing on this earth—that the True
Vine may bear fruit through his life.
As Christ followers, we have a new position in life.
The phrase “in Me” or “in the vine” is used seven times That is why Christ continues to remind His followers
in the parable to describe our position in Christ if of their position “in Him.” In Christ’s example in
we have confessed Him as our Lord and Savior and nature, the branch is in the image of the vine. They
received His grace and forgiveness. The phrase “in are alike. The only difference is that the vine is great
you” or “in him” is used twice to describe the presence and strong, and the branches are small and feeble,
of Christ and the Holy Spirit in us after we trust in constantly needing and receiving strength from the
Christ for salvation. According to Ephesians 1:13-14, the vine. The vine has stored up sap and strength, not for
moment we put our faith in Christ for our salvation itself, but for the branches.
the Holy Spirit seals us in Christ and enters our
bodies as a deposit guaranteeing our new position “in The branches have nothing except what they receive
Christ.” from the vine. They are kept in place by the vine and
are totally dependent upon the vine for strength and
Continually Reminded nourishment. So we see in Christ’s example a picture
Notice what Christ says in verse 3. He says, “You of total dependence upon Him to provide all we need
are already clean because of the word I have spoken for life. This is what it means to be “in Christ.” This is
to you.” Then He says in verse 4, “Remain (abide) the position of every believer. Here are a few cross-
in Me and I will remain (abide) in you. No branch references that teach us about our new position in the
can bear fruit by itself; it must remain (abide) in the True Vine.
vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain
(abide) in Me.” Throughout the rest of the passage, 2 Corinthians 5:17
Jesus states over and over, “I am the vine and you “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation;
are the branches.” He continually reminds them of the old has gone, the new has come!”
their position “in Him.” Verse 3 helps to explain that
position. Ephesians 4:22-24
“You were taught, with regard to your former way of
Notice that Jesus says, “You are already clean.” The life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by
word “already” indicates a past, completed action by its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of
Christ and the current position of the new believer your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be
in relation to Christ. If we place our faith in Christ like God in true righteousness and holiness.”

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 their relationship with Him?
John 10:27-29 6. Do you think Christians today could use a good
“My sheep listen to my voice; I know them, and they reminder that they are “already” clean? In other
follow me. I give them eternal life, and they shall never words, do you think many believers live their
perish; no one can ever snatch them out of my hand. lives in an attempt to “clean” themselves, not
My Father who has given them to me, is greater than understanding their position as “already clean” in
all; no one can snatch them out of my Father’s hand.” Christ?
7. After reminding them that they are “already
So if someone is not “in Christ,” where is he? In clean,” what instructions does Jesus give His
order to truly grasp our new position in Christ, we disciples in verse 4?
must understand our position outside of Christ.
The following cross-references explain our former Share with your group that Jesus uses the term “in
position, and why being “in Christ” is so vital for every Me” or “in the vine” seven times in this parable to
believer. describe our relationship with Christ. Explain that they
are going to spend a few minutes in smaller groups
1 Corinthians 15:21-22 taking a deeper look at Scripture on what it means to
“For since death came through a man (Adam), the be “in Christ,” and outside of Christ. Divide your group
resurrection of the dead comes also through a man according to size and assign the cross-references to
(Christ). For as in Adam all die, so in Christ all will be different groups. Give them a few minutes to discuss
made alive.” these verses together and then bring the group back
together to share and discuss what they learned. List
Romans 6:23 the characteristics of life “in Christ” in one column on
“For the wages of sin is death, but the gift of God is the board, and the characteristics of life outside of
eternal life in Christ Jesus our Lord.” Christ in another column.

Ephesians 2:4-5 Cross-Reference Verses:

“But because of His great love for us, God, who is rich in 2 Corinthians 5:17 Romans 6:23
mercy, made us alive with Christ even when we were dead Ephesians 4:22-24 Ephesians 2:4-5
in transgressions—it is by grace you have been saved.” John 10:27-29 Ephesians 1:4-8
1 Corinthians 15: 21-22
In these six references, we see a stark contrast 1. In nature, which produces fruit, the vine or the
between life outside of Christ, and life “in Christ” after branch?
salvation. 2. What is the difference between producing and
bearing fruit?
Using the commentary above on the vine and the 3. Why then, is it so important that as believers we
branch, explain the relationship of the vine and branch “abide in the Vine” in order to bear fruit?
in nature. Then, using the following questions, lead 4. If we don’t “abide in the Vine” will there be any
your group in a discussion about what it means that as fruit for us to bear? How do you know based on
believers we gain a new position “in Christ.” Jesus’ example in this parable?
5. Do you think that most Christians understand and
1. According to this parable in John 15, what is the live to bear fruit, or are they striving to produce
believer’s new position in life? it?
2. Using Jesus’ example of the vine and the branch, 6. Discuss how living to produce fruit as a “branch”
what does this mean practically that a believer is leads to weariness, frustration, etc.
“in Christ?”
3. How does this truth of being “in Christ” affect our “Abide In Me”
lives in the same way that the vine affects the It is important that Jesus’ command to “abide in Me”
life of the branch? Be specific in your discussion in John 15:4 not be misinterpreted. The instruction
in order to help your group begin to see the to remain (abide) in Christ and He will abide in you,
practical application of being “in Christ.” does not refer to our position regarding salvation.
4. How does Jesus describe His disciples in John We have seen that when we place our faith in Christ,
15:3? He forgives us, cleanses us, and the result is that our
5. Why do you think Jesus says that they are position is no longer “in Adam,” but “in Christ” for
“already” clean? What might this indicate about all eternity! This is a secure position that will never

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change. Jesus is not teaching His disciples how to 6. How do these verses assure a person that he is
become “in the Vine.” He is reminding them that they eternally secure in his relationship with Christ?
are already “in the Vine.” 7. Do you think many Christians struggle with
assurance of salvation? Why is that the case?
The command in verse 4 to “abide in Me” is not 8. Why can we have confidence in our new position
referring to losing salvation. It is reminding us how to in Christ? Is this confidence found in anything we
bear fruit in our salvation because this is the purpose ourselves do? If not, in what is it found?
for which Christ saves us—so that He can produce
His fruit through our lives. Christ is encouraging Depending On God
complete dependence upon Him. Only then will we We have established the key “characters” in John 15. We
bear fruit that will last. have examined God’s Word to understand what Christ
meant when He taught His followers that they were “in
The True Vine Him,” and commanded them to remain (abide) there.
Jesus describes Himself in John 15:1 as the “true vine,” We have seen that Jesus is the true vine; therefore, our
not one of many vines. This reference presupposes salvation and position as His child are eternally secure.
that there must be untrue, or false vines. The The role of the vine is to hold the branch in place. The
following cross-references take a closer look at the branch simply abides (remains) where the gardener put
importance of Christ being the true vine and how this it. The vine bears the branch, strengthens the branch,
assures every believer that he is eternally secure in supports the branch, gives life to the branch, and lives
his relationship with Christ. through the branch making it fruitful.

John 10:8-9 Branches are made secure in the vine by the gardener
“All who ever came before Me (Christ) were thieves and as he grafts them into the vine. The process of
robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the grafting is when a gardener takes the bud or shoot
gate; whoever enters through Me will be saved. He will of a plant or tree and inserts this new bud into the
come in and go out, and find pasture.” stem or trunk of another where it continues to grow,
becoming a permanent part. Notice in this parable
Acts 4:12 that before Christ ever tells His followers to remain
“Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other (abide) in Him, He directs their attention to God, the
name under heaven given to men by which we must be gardener, in John 15:1. The vine is dependent on the
saved.” gardener, and the branches are dependent on the vine.
Christ is teaching us that ultimately, it is God the
John 14:6 Father who is working in and through our lives.
“Jesus answered, ‘I am the way and the truth and the
life. No one comes to the Father except through Me.” At the root of this parable is the truth that the
Christian life comes down to one simple truth. We
Using these cross-references and the following are to leave our lives in God’s hands, living in total
questions, lead your group in a discussion of why dependence on Him, trusting that He will give us all
Christ is the true vine and what this means for that we need. Remember, Christ came to bring us
everyone who places his faith in Christ. to God. Christ the vine points to God the gardener.
Scripture describes how God has grafted us in to the
1. Why do you think Jesus used the word “true” Vine in several different ways.
to describe Himself in John 15:1? What might
this tell you about other religious leaders in the Let’s look at some cross-references that will help us
disciples’ time? to further understand the work of God the Gardener
2. Do we today face “false” vines? Explain your in our lives as “branches” in Christ the Vine.
answer.
3. According to Acts 4:12, where is salvation found? Ephesians 1:4-5
Is this the only place it is found? Has anyone else “For God chose us in Him (Christ) before the creation of
ever conquered sin and death then rose to life? the world to be holy and blameless in His sight. In love,
4. According to John 14:6, what is the only way to He predestined us to be adopted as His sons through
come to the Father for eternal life? Jesus Christ, in accordance with His pleasure and will.”
5. How does Jesus describe other religious leaders Ephesians 1:13
in John 10:7-10? “And you also were included in Christ when you heard

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the word of truth, the Gospel of your salvation. Having to our lives “in Christ” once we have received
believed, you were marked in Him with a seal, the God’s grace and forgiveness? Who does the work
promised Holy Spirit.” of making us fruitful? What is our role in the
process?
Romans 3:22-24 5. In daily life, what does it mean to “remain in the
“This righteousness from God comes through faith in Vine?”
Jesus Christ to all who believe. There is no difference, 6. How will this truth change the way we
for all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, understand and live our lives as Christ followers?
and are justified freely by His grace through the Be specific in your answer.
redemption that came by Christ Jesus.”
Conclusion
Look for the key words in these verses that describe Christ is the true vine. God is the gardener. All
the “grafting” work of God the Father. Words such as disciples of Christ are the branches, and their sole
“chose,” “adopted,” “included,” “marked,” “sealed,” and purpose is to bear the fruit of the vine. As believers,
“justified.” These words show us the work of God as our position is “in Christ.” God put us there, and He
the gardener who grafts us in to Christ, the only True keeps us there. We must surrender our old identity
Vine. “in Adam” in order to be grafted into the Vine and
given new life, a new identity, and a new purpose.
Using the information above and the following Only as we willingly give control over to the Gardener
questions, lead your group in a discussion about how and submit to the Vine can we experience this new
God is the gardener who grafts us in to our new life the way it is intended to be lived. Since we
position in the Vine. now are secure in the Vine, there is no need to live
in guilt, shame or fear in relation to God. We have
1. In Christ’s example in nature, what is the role of been chosen, adopted, included, marked, sealed and
the gardener in relationship to the vine and the justified freely by God’s grace. We are in Christ, a new
branches? What does he do? How does his work creation, re-created by the Gardener in the likeness
affect the vine and the branches? of the Vine. Now we are free. We are free to remain
2. How does this illustrate the work of God in the (abide) where God has placed us, to surrender, to bear
lives of Christ’s disciples? fruit for the glory of God. And remember Christ’s last
words on earth, “And surely I am with you, even to the
Have your group turn to the cross-references listed end of the age.”
above and ask three volunteers to read the verses
aloud. Then, lead a discussion of these verses and Additional Application
how they illustrate the work of God as the one who 1) This week, daily thank God for your new and secure
grafts us in to Christ. Remember to point out the key position in Christ.
words that describe this work that are listed in the 2) Seek to read Ephesians 1 and John 15 a couple of
commentary above. You may even want to list these times this week. Ask God to continue to teach you
key words on the board to help focus their attention more things about what it means to be “in Christ”
on the work of God in our lives. and “abiding in Him.”

1. When you look at these key words, what does it

make you think about your salvation? Are you
secure in Christ?
2. In Jesus’ example in nature, discuss the roles of
the gardener, the vine and the branches. Who
does the work in fruit being produced by the vine
and borne by the branches? Ultimately, whose
work determines the outcome of fruit? Where
does the responsibility ultimately lie?
3. Following Jesus’ word picture and example in
this parable, who does the work of salvation, the
branches or the gardener? How do the cross-
reference verses we just read teach this truth?
4. How does this simple truth from nature apply

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 LESSON 2 Opening Activity
Explain to your group that this week we are going to

EMBRACE CHRIST’S VISION uncover God’s vision for every believer’s life as we
dive deeper into Christ’s command in John 15:4-5 to
“remain (abide) in Me and I will remain (abide) in you.”
Key Passages: John 15:4-5; Philippians 3:7-11 As we learned last week, “abide” does not refer to our
position, because we are secure in Christ if we have
Review and Introduction placed our faith in Him and surrendered our lives to
Last week, we began a study on the Parable of the His lordship. “Abide” refers to the intimacy of our
Vine in John 15:1-17. In this parable, Jesus gave His relationship and fellowship with Christ. It is a word
disciples an example from nature that illustrated how that calls believers to stay connected in deep intimacy
their relationship with Him should be. Jesus taught with Christ.
that God is the gardener, Jesus is the true vine, and
His followers are the branches. Last week’s lesson A practical way to illustrate this point is the marriage
focused on a believer’s position “in Christ,” and how relationship. Lead your group in a discussion of
John 15 illustrates this position because God has marriage (or a close friendship if marriage doesn’t
“grafted” all believers into the Vine. We also learned apply to your group) using the following questions.
that Christ commanded His followers in John 15:4 Be sure to focus on how a marriage (or friendship) is
to abide in Him so that they would bear fruit. As we strengthened and deepened.
remain (abide) in Christ the vine, He produces fruit
that we, the branches, will bear (demonstrate) in 1. How would you describe a healthy marriage?
every area of our lives. 2. Does going through the wedding ceremony
guarantee a close, intimate marriage? Why or
Understand and Obey why not?
Our study this week will focus on God’s vision for 3. Once two people are united in marriage, what
our lives—to know and become like Jesus. We will would happen if they just stopped spending
see that in order to embrace and live out this vision, quality time together? Would they cease to
we must understand and obey this command in be married? How would their relationship be
John 15:4-5 to abide in Christ. As we saw last week, affected?
Scripture teaches that this command does not pertain 4. What are some specific ways that people deepen
to gaining or losing salvation. A believer’s position a relationship?
in Christ is eternally secure. So how do we “abide” 5. Do you think it is important that couples “remain”
in Christ if our position in Him is secure? What does or “abide” with one another in order to grow in
Jesus mean? What is abiding in Christ? That is what their love for one another? If so, how do people
we will begin to uncover in Scripture throughout this do this practically?
lesson. 7. Which do you think is more important in a
marriage, the things you do for one another, or
Before you begin today’s study, lead your group in the intimacy and deep community that you build
a quick review (5 minutes) of last week’s lesson to together?
refresh their memory and lay a foundation for those 8. Do you think it is possible to follow all of the
who did not study Lesson One. Below are some “rules” of marriage but still not build a deep and
questions to help you review. intimate connection?
9. Do you think building a foundation of intimacy
1. Who are the key “characters” in John 15:1-17? and relational oneness will likely lead to behavior
2. Who produces fruit? that strengthens the marriage?
3. Who bears fruit?
4. What is the difference in producing and bearing Explain to your group that just as spending time
fruit? together strengthens a marriage or friendship, it also
5. What does it mean for someone to be “in Christ?” strengthens your relationship with Christ. Healthy
6. What is God’s (the gardener) role in fruit being marriages grow over time as two people communicate
produced in the Vine and borne through the regularly and do life together, becoming one in every
branches? How does He “graft” the branches into part of life. There is no “checklist” of things to do in
the Vine? order to have a great marriage. It is the same with
your relationship with Christ. There is no list of

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things to do for Jesus that will automatically bring abide in the Vine and the Gardener will produce the
someone closer to God. It is a relationship that grows change, which will be borne through our lives as we
as we “abide” in Christ—daily living life with Him. continually offer ourselves to Him.

Spiritual disciplines like Bible study, prayer, and First Learn to Abide
biblical community are ways to help us abide in God’s vision that we know Christ and become like
Christ—but these things in and of themselves do not Him cannot happen unless we learn first to remain
automatically produce fruit in our lives. They are (abide) in the vine (Christ). Jesus gave His disciples
only tools to help us grow in our intimacy with Christ. this parable in John 15 as a picture not only of their
Remember, Christ (the vine) produces the fruit. And position “in Him,” but to show them how He would
the only way we will bear that fruit is if we remain produce His character in and through them. God
(abide) in Him. receives great glory as we bear (demonstrate) His
character in our lives, because only He can produce
Opening Prayer the life-change in us that shows His character to the
Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying world. His power and presence is revealed as He
for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of transforms us.
every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new
way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray “Abide,” or “remain,” is used 11 times in this parable.
that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and Most of the time it refers to our need to “remain” in
show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives a close relationship with Christ. The word means,
in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified “to stay connected” in a relational sense. We cannot
through your discussion today. know Christ in an intimate way without abiding with
Him. Just as we saw in the opening activity that our
Key Study relationships with others grow and deepen when we
God’s vision for all believers is that we know Christ spend time together, so it is with Christ.
intimately and experience life-transformation by
His Spirit to become like Him. This is why Christ We can know about Christ from a distance, but we can
commanded His disciples in John 15:4-5 to “remain only know His heart, passions, desires, and purposes
(abide) in Him”—so that they could know Him more every by spending time with Him. And we cannot live out
day and become like Him. Romans 8:29 says that it is God’s vision to become like Christ if we do not know
God’s will that everyone He saves be conformed to the His heart, passions, desires, and purposes. So we
image of His Son. see that abiding in Christ is the only way to embrace
God’s vision for our lives, and the purpose for which
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 says that Christ followers we have been saved—to bear fruit through us for His
reflect the Lord’s glory as we are being transformed glory.
(changed from the inside out) into Christ’s likeness.
And Romans 12:1-2 commands believers to offer our Paul understood the importance of knowing Christ
bodies as living sacrifices to God so that we will no above everything else. His life is an excellent example
longer be conformed to the image of this world, but of what it means to remain (abide) in Christ. Toward
be transformed by the renewing of our minds. God’s the end of his life Paul wrote in Philippians 3:7-11, “But
will is clear in these verses. He wants those He saves whatever was to my profit I now consider loss for the
to look like His Son. sake of Christ. What is more, I consider everything a
loss compared to the surpassing greatness of knowing
Notice how all of these verses teach that being Christ Jesus my Lord, for whose sake I have lost all
changed into the image of Christ is an ongoing things. I consider them rubbish that I may gain Christ
process, not an overnight change that happens when and be found in Him, not having a righteousness of
you place your faith in Christ. Also notice that being my own that comes from the law, but that which is
transformed is something that God is doing in us, through faith in Christ—the righteousness that comes
not something that we can do ourselves. Romans from God and is by faith. I want to know Christ and
12:1 makes clear again that the believer’s job is not to the power of His resurrection and the fellowship of
produce this change, but merely to relinquish control sharing in His sufferings, becoming like Him in His
and offer ourselves to the One who can change us. death, and so, somehow, to attain to the resurrection
Doesn’t this truth fit exactly with Jesus’ parable in from the dead.”
John 15? We don’t produce the “fruit” of change, we

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In this passage, we see a perfect picture of abiding 4. What are some ways that we can conform to this
because Paul’s focus is not on “doing” certain religious pattern?
things, but simply on knowing Christ and becoming like 5. According to Romans 12:2, how are we
Him. And here we see that Paul wants to know ALL transformed?
of Christ, not just the “easy” parts. He wants to know 6. The word “renewing” in the Greek means, “To
Christ’s suffering, becoming like Him in His death. We renovate; a complete change for the better.”
see Paul’s desire to “die” to his way of life, and to spend Based on this definition, how does someone
his life in a pursuit to know Christ and become like Him “renew” his mind?
in every way. This is abiding. 7. According to all three of these verses, what is
God’s pre-determined vision for the life of every
Using the commentary above, explain to your group Christ follower?
God’s vision for every believer’s life. Have your group
turn in their Bible to the following verses as someone Have your group turn in their Bible to Philippians
reads each one aloud. Using the following questions, 3:7-11 and have someone read the passage aloud to
lead your group in a discussion of how these verses the group. Using the commentary and the following
show us God’s vision—that we know and become like questions, lead a discussion of these verses.
Christ.
1. How does Paul describe his life in Christ in verses
Romans 8:29 7-8?
2 Corinthians 3:17-18 2. Paul mentions two different kinds of
Romans 12:1-2 “righteousness” in verse 9. What are they and
how does he describe each?
• According to Romans 8:29, what is God’s will for 3. Which “righteousness” does Paul desire to have?
every believer? 4. Who is this righteousness from and how does a
person get it according to the end of verse 9?
Leader Note: The word “predestined” in this verse is 5. How deeply does Paul desire to know Christ
the Greek word proorizo. It is a verb that means, “To according to verse 10?
ordain; to pre-determine; to decide beforehand.” The 6. Is Paul more focused on “deeds” for God or on
word “conformed” is the Greek word symmorphos. “intimacy” in his relationship with Christ? How do
It is an adjective that means, “Having the same you know?
form as another; fashioned like unto.” Sharing 7. How do these verses demonstrate “abiding” in
these definitions with your group may help them to Christ?
understand what the verse means. 8. Based on what you know of Paul’s life, what “fruit”
was borne through his life as a result of his focus
• How does 2 Corinthians 3:18 describe the process on knowing Christ?
of becoming like Christ in a believer’s life? 9. What does this tell you about the importance of
intimacy and constant connection with Christ?
Leader Note: The word “transformed” in verse 18 is
the Greek word metamorphoo. It is a verb that means, Grafted In
“To change into another form; to transfigure.” This In our first lesson, we discussed how a branch is
is where we get the word “metamorphosis,” which grafted into a vine by the gardener. This is the
describes the change that occurs in the cocoon for example given to us by Christ in John 15:1-17. When a
a butterfly. Sharing this definition with your class branch is grafted into a vine, there are two things that
may help them to understand the change that is must happen in order for the new graft to survive.
God’s vision for our lives. Just as a caterpillar is The first takes place in the wood. The new graft
changed into another form in the cocoon, God wants (branch) must shoot its little roots into the vine, so
us to abide with Christ to experience a spiritual the vine can grow up into the new graft.
transformation.
The branch must give up its individual identity and
1. What does Paul urge his brothers in Christ to do independence and be willing to take on the identity
in Romans 12:1? of the vine as one organism. As the branch abides
2. What is his command to them in Romans 12:2? there, it becomes one with the vine. There is also a
3. Describe the “pattern” of the world that we live second process that must occur. The sap of the vine
in today. must enter the new branch. The vine can then use

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the branch as a passage through which sap can flow in presence of Christ in our lives through the Holy
order to produce fruit. Spirit. Begin by explaining the two-fold process of a
new graft surviving in the vine and how this process
When Christ says in John 15:4, “Remain (abide) in relates to John 15:4.
Me, and I will remain (abide) in you,” it is the same
two-fold process that we see in a vine and branch. 1. According to what you learned about the grafting
“Remain in Me” refers to our part in the process. We process in nature, why does “abide in Me” come
have to surrender control and independence, trust and before “…and I will abide in you” in John 15:4?
obey Christ, detach ourselves from everything else What is the significance of this order?
and “shoot our roots” deep into Him. As we do this, 2. What are some practical ways that believers
our heart and character are prepared for the next part “shoot roots” deep into Christ the vine every day?
of Jesus’ command, “…and I will abide in you.”
Read Matthew 28:19-20.
Intimately Connected • What is Christ’s promise to His disciples in verse
Notice in John 15:4 that the “abide in Me” comes 20 of this passage?
before the “I will abide in you.” Remember, this
does not refer to salvation, but to the intimacy and Read John 14:16-17.
community in your relationship with Christ. The “I will 1. According to these verses, what did Jesus ask His
abide in you” will not come if the “abide in Me” is not Father to do for His disciples?
maintained. Ephesians 4:4 says, “There is one body, 2. How long would the Holy Spirit be with them?
and one Spirit.” Before the Spirit will fill us and bear 3. According to verse 17, what would their
fruit through us, the body must be prepared. The new relationship be like with the Spirit?
graft must have grown into the vine and be abiding in 4. Where would the Spirit dwell?
it before the sap will flow through it to yield fruit. As 5. So, how did Christ keep His promise in Matthew
we deny ourselves, offer our bodies as living sacrifices 28:20 to be with His disciples always?
to God (Romans 12:1) and abide in Him, we will be able
to receive the “I will abide in you” promise of Christ. Read Acts 1:4 and Acts 1:8
1. According to Acts 1:4, what did Jesus command
Sap of the Spirit His disciples to do?
The “sap” that flows from the Vine to us, the 2. Based on Acts 1:8, what would the disciples
branches, is the power of the Holy Spirit. In Matthew receive when the Holy Spirit came on them?
28:19-20 when Jesus commanded His disciples to Why?
“make disciples of all nations,” He made them a
promise in verse 20. He promised them that He The “sap” of the Holy Spirit brings the power of God
would be with them always, “Even to the end of into our lives. But if we are not “abiding” deeply
the age.” The Holy Spirit is how Jesus would be rooted in the Vine, then we will not experience the
with them always. Acts 1:4 tells us that Christ had “…and I will remain in you” promise of John 15:4. In
commanded His disciples to go to Jerusalem after order for the Holy Spirit to freely flow through our
His ascension to heaven and “wait for the gift My lives, we must abide in Christ. As we abide in Him,
Father has promised, which you have heard Me speak He abides in us as the Spirit of Christ flows freely
about.” In John 14:16-17 Jesus says to His disciples, in and through us, producing fruit in our lives. Only
“I will ask the Father, and He will give you another as we spend time in His presence can we receive
Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. the strength to bear fruit—the fruit of Christ-like
The world cannot accept Him, because it neither character and the fruit of more Christ-followers.
sees Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He
lives with you and will be in you.” The Holy Spirit How Do I Abide in Christ
is the “sap” of the vine that transforms us into the on a Day-to-Day Basis?
image of the vine (Jesus). As we abide in Christ, we This brings us to the practical question, “How do I
become the passageway through which the Holy abide in Christ on a day-to-day basis?” As we ask
Spirit flows to produce fruit that is demonstrated ourselves this question, it is important that we
through our lives. remember the example that we studied earlier in this
lesson of Paul’s life in Philippians 3:7-11. The question
Using the commentary above and the following is not “what to do” for God, but “how to abide.” It is
questions, lead your group in a discussion of the not a question of position, but of relationship. The

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gardener (God) has grafted us into Christ. Our “therefore” is used at the beginning of a sentence,
position is secure. The practical question for us is how it tells us that the words that follow are based on
to remain deeply rooted in the True Vine, cultivating the previous thought or verse. In this case, the
a surrendered heart and mind that is daily being instructions in verses 12-13 are based on the truth
changed to look more like Jesus. Remember, that is (that we are “dead to sin but alive to God in Christ
God’s vision for our lives—that we know and become Jesus”) that is presented in verse 11.
like Jesus.
Paul says we must not let sin reign in our mortal
Answering the Question bodies. This means that we can choose what controls
In the remainder of this lesson we will look at several us. Will we let sin control us, or will we abide in
Scriptures to help us answer this question. As you Christ and let His Spirit control us? We cannot serve
lead your group through a discussion of these verses, two masters. Either our sinful nature (the flesh) or
remember to continue to focus not on “doing,” but the Holy Spirit will control us. Notice again in this
on “abiding,” developing an intimate connection with passage (like in Romans 12:1-2) how Paul is telling us
Christ. The practical things we “do” are a means to an to offer our bodies to God. Here again we see the
end, not the end itself. The goal is to abide in Christ, choice to surrender control (“die to self”) of our lives
not “do a quiet time” or “Bible study” or even “do to God in Christ Jesus. Just like in John 15:4-5, this
church.” The spiritual disciplines of the Christian life passage is not telling us how to gain the position of
do not produce fruit, but they help us to learn to abide “alive to God in Christ Jesus,” but how to live in the
in the Vine. As you guide the discussion, help your reality of that position. It is by continually offering
group members to begin to change their mindset from ourselves to Christ and abiding in Him.
“doing” to “abiding.”
1. How are believers to “count” (or consider)
Each cross-reference will be listed along with a themselves according to verse 11?
brief commentary on the verse, followed by some 2. What does it mean to be “dead to sin?”
discussion questions for your group. You do not have 3. According to verses 12-13, what is the practical
to use all of the verses if you do not have time. This way that we “count” ourselves “dead to sin but
would also be a great opportunity to divide into alive in Christ?”
smaller groups for deeper community building and 4. According to verse 12, what happens if we let sin
discussion. If you choose to do this, assign each group reign in our bodies?
one verse to read and discuss. Print the verse and 5. What are some ways that we can let sin reign in
applicable discussion questions on a card for each our bodies?
group. After a few minutes, bring everyone back 6. What choice does Paul lay out for us in verse 13?
together and allow each group to share what they 7. What do you think he means by “offer?” How do
learned. we “offer” ourselves either to sin or to God?
8. According to verse 13, what is the result of
Romans 6:11-14 offering your body to sin versus offering your
“In the same way, count yourselves dead to sin but alive body to God? What is the “fruit” of each choice?
to God in Christ Jesus. Therefore do not let sin reign in 9. How does verse 14 confirm our position as “dead
your mortal body so that you obey its evil desires. Do to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus?”
not offer the parts of your body to sin, as instruments 10. Discuss some ways that we are used as
of wickedness, but rather offer yourselves to God, as “instruments of righteousness.” How does this
those who have been brought from death to life; and phrase compare with the parable in John 15:1-17?
offer the parts of your body to Him as instruments (Hint: Do instruments produce the music, or are
of righteousness. For sin shall not be your master, they vessels through which music is played?)
because you are not under law, but under grace.”
Galatians 5:16-25
In this passage we see Paul reminding the Roman “So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify
believers of their position “in Christ.” That position the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature
is “dead to sin, but alive in Christ Jesus.” Throughout desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit
the passage, Paul is urging them to live in this truth. what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in
We must choose to live in a way that reflects our conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you
position. We are dead to sin. Notice that verse 12 want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under
begins with the word, “therefore.” Whenever the word law. The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual

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 sustaining sap of the Spirit. This is where we will
immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and
receive the power to choose to be controlled by Him
witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish
instead of by sin.
ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness,
1. What are we commanded to do in verse 16?
orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that
2. What is the result of “living by the Spirit”
those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom
according to verse 16?
of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace,
3. What conflict does Paul lay out for us in verse 17?
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness
4. How does this conflict play out in daily life?
and self-control. Against such things there is no law.
5. According to verses 19-21, what is the “fruit” of
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the
NOT living by the Spirit?
sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we
6. According to verses 22-23, what is the “fruit” of
live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.”
living by the Spirit?
7. Look carefully at verses 19-23. Is there a
In verse 16, we see again the choice that every
command to “do” or “not do” any of these things?
believer faces each day… “Who or what will control me
8. What is the command associated with this list,
today?” In verse 16, Paul states the natural result of
according to verse 16?
abiding in Christ and living by the Spirit—you will not
9. Based on what we have studied in John 15, how
gratify the desires of the sinful nature. Many times
do you “live by the Spirit?”
our focus is not on “living by the Spirit” (abiding), but
10. According to verse 24, what has every believer
rather on “not gratifying the flesh.” We concentrate
done to the sinful nature and it’s desires?
and try so hard “not to sin.” But where does this place
11. Based on this truth, what is the command in verse 25?
the focus of our attention, on Christ or on ourselves?
12. What are some ways that we can “keep in step”
In this verse lies a wonderfully practical and life-
with the Spirit of Christ in our lives?
changing truth. The key is not in what we do, but Who
is controlling what we do. Once again we see how
Ephesians 4:22-24
abiding in Christ, by surrendering to His control daily,
“You were taught with regard to your former way of
will produce fruit in our lives.
life, to put off your old self, which is being corrupted by
its deceitful desires; to be made new in the attitude of
Notice Paul’s language in verse 19 as he begins to list
your minds; and to put on the new self, created to be
the acts of the sinful nature. He writes, “The acts of
like God in true righteousness and holiness.”
the sinful nature are obvious…” It’s almost as if he is
saying, “Don’t focus on this. This is obvious.” In these
Notice the parallels in this passage to what we have
verses we see two different “fruits.” Paul isn’t giving
already seen in Scripture throughout our study. We
a “list of do’s and don’ts.” In verses 19-21, he is simply
see here a contrast between the “old self” and the
listing the results of gratifying the desires of the
“new self.” The “old self” is life outside of Christ,
sinful nature (which occurs if we aren’t living by the
when we were “in Adam,” dead in our sins. The “new
Spirit according to verse 16). Then in verses 22-23, he
self” is life grafted into the True Vine, living by the
is simply listing the fruit of living by the Spirit. The
Holy Spirit through our new position in Christ. Sin
“fruit” our lives bear will be the result not of what we
reigned in our bodies in the “old self,” but in the “new
“do,” but of where we are “abiding.”
self,” sin is not our master. Again in this passage we
are presented with a daily choice. We must choose to
The Conflict
“put off” the old and “put on” the new.
In this passage we see a great conflict, and a great
choice. In verses 24-25, Paul reminds us that if
Again, this is not in reference to our position in Christ
we have placed our faith in Christ, then we have
because our salvation is secure. It is the choice to
“crucified” the sinful nature. Notice how this lines up
abide or not to abide in Christ. According to verse
with what we just saw in Romans 6:11—that we are
23, if we choose to abide, the “fruit” is a change in
“dead to sin but alive to God in Christ Jesus.” It is
the attitude of our minds. Remember what we saw
wonderful and practical advice that he gives in verse
in Romans 12:1-2? As we offer ourselves to God by
25. If we have crucified the sinful nature (also called
abiding in Christ, choosing not to be conformed any
the “old self”), then we can live by the Spirit (the
longer to the pattern of this world (putting off the
“sap” that brings life to the branch). Paul is saying,
old self), we will be transformed by the renewing
“You are alive in Christ through His Spirit, so live
of our minds, trusting the Vine, not self. And verse
like it!” How do we live like we are “alive in Christ?”
24 of this passage describes again God’s vision for
By daily abiding in the vine and receiving the life-

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this “new self.” It is “created to be like God in true glory. But we must “abide” in Him for that vision to
righteousness and holiness.” become a reality. As we surrender our lives to the
will of God, He grafts us into Christ. And as we abide
1. According to this passage, what are believers to there, the Holy Spirit flows through us producing the
“put off” and “put on?” fruit of the Vine. We are all “abiding” in something.
2. What is happening to the old self according to Where we choose to “abide” determines the fruit
verse 22? that our lives will bear. The question isn’t “if” we’re
3. What happens when we choose to “put off” the abiding, but rather, “Where are you abiding?”
old and “put on” the new according to verse 23?
4. How important is the attitude of a person’s mind Application
in how he lives? If your attendees have not yet developed the discipline
5. According to verse 24, what is God’s purpose for of time alone with God every morning as they prepare
the “new self?” themselves for the day, now would be a great time
6. What are some ways that we “put off” the old self? to begin “abiding” in Christ each morning so they
7. What are some ways that we “put on” the new self? can continue “abiding in Him” throughout the day. A
8. Do you think this “putting off” and “putting on” is suggested beginning time might be 15 minutes each
a one-time act, or a daily choice? Explain your morning alone with God. A suggested plan for the 15
answer. minutes is provided on the attached handout.

Conclusion Leader’s Note: You can distribute the available

The only person who can produce the character of handout to help everyone begin the discipline of time
Christ in us is Christ Himself. It is God’s vision for alone with God in the morning, so they can learn to
each of our lives that we be transformed into the “abide with Him” throughout the day.
image of His Son Jesus so that others can see God’s

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 Time Alone with God
Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up,
left the house and went off to a solitary place, where He prayed. Mark 1:35 NIV

Many prominent biblical personalities including (4) Begin with the right attitudes:
Jesus developed the habit of solitude—spending time n Humility. “…humble yourselves before God…”
alone with God (like Abraham, Moses, David, Daniel, James 4:7 NLT
Paul and others). Sometimes we need extended time n Expectancy. “In the morning You will hear my
alone with God, especially for new direction in life, but voice, O Lord; in the morning I will prepare [a prayer,
all of us need daily time alone with God in order to a sacrifice] for You and watch and wait [for You to
experience consistent spiritual transformation and to speak to my heart].” Psalm 5:3 AMP
fulfill God’s mission for our lives each day. n Sincerity. “You will seek Me and find Me when you
search for Me with all your heart.” Jeremiah 29:13
What should happen in our daily NAS
time alone with God? n A Willingness to Obey. “If any man’s will is to do
We should spend some time talking to God in prayer, His will, he shall know whether the teaching is from
and some time listening to God from His Word, God…” John 7:17 RSV
gaining strength and direction for life.
(5) Follow a simple plan. Plan your time alone with
“Show me Your ways, O Lord; teach me Your paths.” God by spending time in prayer and reading your
Psalm 25:4 NIV Bible. A simple 15 minute format might look like this:

Your daily time alone with God is a time to: n Approach God. Spend your first moments
n Consider your way: “Consider well the path of your focusing on God. Worship and praise Him for this
feet.” Proverbs 4:26 AMP new day and the opportunity, through Christ,
n Commit your day: “Commit everything you do to to fellowship with Him. Ask Him to speak to you
the Lord. Trust Him and He will help you.” Psalm 27:5 through His Word.
(NLT)
n Bible Reading. Read through a book of the Bible
How do you have a meaningful in a systematic way. (Start with the Gospel of
time alone with God? John.) Read a chapter or a few verses twice—first
for information, then for inspiration. Ask God to
(1) Select a specific time each day. Schedule it, like a speak to you about the issues of life for that day.
date on your calendar. Choose a time when you can:
n Be at your best. After reading John, go back and read through the
n Be alone. other Gospels and then through the rest of the
n Be consistent. New Testament. The Psalms are also great reading
for your time alone with God.
There are many good reasons to choose a time at the
beginning of the day: n Journal. Write down what you think God is
n The example of many in the Bible, including Jesus saying to you through the verses you’ve just read.
n It helps you get spiritually prepared for the day.
n It demonstrates that meeting with God is your n Pray. Ask for God’s strength to accomplish the
highest and first priority. things He has shown you to do. Confess any sin
n It gives you the opportunity to “meditate” all day He has shown you that you need to turn away
on what God is showing you. from and ask for the conviction not to fall into
those temptations again. Thank Him for His
(2) Choose a specific place. Find a place where you forgiveness, guidance and direction. Yield your
can relax, be quiet and be free from distractions to heart and mind to Him to accomplish His will
meet with God. through you today. Pray for others’ needs as well.

(3) Gather the resources you will need. In addition

to your Bible, you might want to get a pen and
notebook or “spiritual journal” where you can write
down things God is saying to you each day.
 LESSON 3 God intends for us to bear as we abide in Christ.

EMBRACE CHRIST’S MISSION Opening Activity

Before you begin today’s lesson, lead your group
in a quick review of what they’ve studied so far (5
Key Text: John 15:1-17 minutes). The following questions will help as you
review.
Introduction 1) What is God’s vision for every believer’s life?
Over the last two lessons, we have been studying the 2) What does it mean to “remain” or “abide” in Christ?
Parable of the Vine in John 15:1-17. In this passage, we 3) What did Jesus promise in John 15:4 to His disciples?
find an illustration that Christ gave His disciples of how 4) What is the role of the Holy Spirit in producing
their relationship with Him should be. We have seen and bearing fruit?
that everyone who places his faith in Jesus Christ and 5) What is the difference in trying to produce fruit in
confesses Christ as their Lord receives a new position in our lives, and abiding in Christ to bear fruit?
life. Each new believer goes from being dead in his sins
“in Adam” to being alive to God “in Christ.” Opening Prayer
Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying
In Jesus’ illustration in John 15, God is the gardener, for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of
Christ is the true vine, His disciples are the branches every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new
held in place by the vine, and the Holy Spirit is the way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray
sap that flows from the vine to the branches, giving that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and
them the vine’s life and power. We have seen that the show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives
branches cannot bear fruit unless they remain (abide) in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified
in the vine at all times. The gardener “grafts” the through your discussion today.
branches into the vine, and as the branches remain
(abide) in this new position, they become “one wood” Key Study
with the vine. It is important as we begin our study today that
we take a moment to remember and reflect on the
Christ used this example from nature to help His context of John 15:1-17. Jesus had just finished the
disciples understand how important daily intimacy Last Supper with His disciples, one of whom was
and connection with Him would be in their lives in about to betray Him. He had explained His fast-
order for them to bear fruit for God’s glory—which is approaching crucifixion using a loaf of bread and a
the purpose for which He saves us. God’s vision for glass of wine. He had humbled Himself before them
every Christ follower is that we know and become like as He washed their dirty feet, telling them to do the
Jesus. The only way to know and become like Christ same for others. This was a somber, emotional night
is to abide in Him. We abide by surrendering our lives for Jesus and the 12 men He had poured the past
to Him and allowing the Holy Spirit to control us three years of His life into. This was, in many ways,
instead of being controlled by our sinful desires. a farewell—even if only for a short time. Jesus knew
He would be raised back to life after three days, but
As we continue to study John 15:1-17, we will begin to things would never be the same again. His time on
understand that the reason we have been given this earth was almost over, and He loved these men.
new position “in Christ,” and the reason He commands
us to abide in Him, is so that we can bear fruit for the As they exited the home where they had eaten dinner
glory of God. As we study this passage, it will become they began to walk towards the Garden where Jesus
evident that the focus of the passage is not on would pray the amazing prayer for His disciples found
abiding, but on bearing fruit. The point of this series in John 17. Somewhere along the way, maybe even
is not just to teach us how to abide—it is to help us in a vineyard, Jesus begins to teach His disciples this
understand that abiding is the only way that our lives parable in John 15. He begins, “I am the true vine and
will glorify God because when we abide, we bear the My Father is the gardener. He cuts off (lifts up) every
fruit that the vine produces. God’s will for us is not branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every branch
just that we have an intimate relationship with Christ that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will be even
through abiding. His will is that we have an intimate more fruitful.” This is one of the last chances Jesus
relationship with Christ so that we will bear fruit for will have to teach and encourage His disciples in
His glory. In this lesson, we will see what kind of fruit person, and He chooses to explain to them in simple

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terms how they can be fruitful and fulfill His mission the only reason for their existence. If our lives are not
for their lives. fruitful, something is missing. God will never allow
us to be satisfied if we aren’t bearing fruit. To do
Got Fruit? so would be allowing us to miss out on the purpose
On the surface it may seem strange, but think about for which we exist. Could it be that the feelings of
it. How many truly “fruitful” Christians do you know? disappointment or emptiness that many believers
Have you ever wondered why that is? Why are so sometimes face are a result of a life without fruit?
many believers no more “fruitful” now than before What if this is His way of pursuing us, of showing us
they began following Christ? What are we missing? that there is something more, something better that
We can be fairly certain that following Christ did not we are missing?
turn out how those 12 disciples had expected. They
were run out of town, hated, persecuted, and even His Desire for Us
killed. They sacrificed comfort, wealth and even As we study today, let’s take to heart these life-
relationships to follow Christ. And think how they giving words of Christ in John 15. God created and
felt when He died. This is not what they expected. It saved us to bear fruit. This is His desire for us.
was hard—and Jesus knew it would be hard. Don’t you Every circumstance He allows into our lives is for
think it’s the same for many of us today? We place the purpose of making us fruitful. Once we begin to
our faith in Christ expecting life to be easier, better, to understand this truth, we will be able to view our lives
be happier. We think, “Christ will save my marriage, from His eternal perspective, facing each challenge
my children will follow Christ, my financial needs and sacrifice as an opportunity to bring Him glory by
will be met.” And then… life happens. And it brings bearing fruit. God has an amazing plan to keep His
hardship, pain and disappointment. We feel confused branches flourishing and fruitful. This is the life we
and disillusioned, and sometimes even betrayed by are intended to live, and this is the life that will satisfy
God. Most of us surely wouldn’t characterize our lives us—bearing fruit for God’s glory.
as “fruitful.”
How do we know that it is God’s purpose for our lives
Let’s be honest. It’s not easy to admit, but many to be fruitful? Notice that before Jesus even tells
people who follow Christ experience these feelings, His disciples to abide in Him, He begins explaining
we just don’t talk about it—especially to other God’s process of making the branches fruitful. In
“seemingly happy” Christians. We expect the love we verse 2 He addresses how God makes an unfruitful
feel for Christ on the day He saves us to make it easy branch fruitful, and how He makes fruitful branches
to sacrifice for Him… but it’s not any easier now than even more fruitful. Nowhere do we see the Gardener
it was 2,000 years ago. ignoring a fruitless branch. Even the ones bearing
fruit receive nurturing from God so that they will bear
Pursuing Us more fruit.
In John 15, Christ is about to hand over His ministry
to eleven men who have little knowledge of what Then in verse 4, Jesus tells His disciples to remain in
they are in for. In just a few days He will send them Him. But why? Because, “No branch can bear fruit
out to make disciples of all nations for His glory. Now, by itself; it must abide in the vine. Neither can you
2000 years later, His ministry has been handed over bear fruit unless you abide in Me.” The purpose of
to us. Like the first disciples, we didn’t know what Christ’s command to abide in Him is to bear fruit. The
we were “in for” when we decided to follow Christ end goal is not abiding for the sake of being “close to
either. The good news is that God never expected God.” The end goal is to remain close to Christ so we
us to accomplish His mission in our own power or will be fruitful branches.
in our own ways. God has given us everything we
need to have an abundant, fruitful life by grafting us Jesus begins this parable talking about bearing fruit in
into the Vine. Christ does not want us to settle for a verse 2, and He ends the parable talking about bearing
relationship with Him that is fruitless. In this passage, fruit in verse 16. It is here that we see how bearing
Christ shows us the life He wants for us, and it is a fruit is God’s purpose for our lives. Jesus says, “You
fruitful life that bears an abundant harvest for His did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you
glory. to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.” Jesus sort
of “pulls rank” in this verse. He reminds His disciples
He also tells us how to have this fruitful life—we must that He chose them, and He did so for a purpose – so
abide in Him. Branches are meant to bear fruit—it is they would bear lasting fruit.’

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Why Is This God’s Purpose for Us? 6. According to verse 16, why has Christ saved us
Why is bearing fruit God’s purpose for our lives? John and what has He appointed us to do?
15:8 says, “This is to My Father’s glory, that you bear 7. How does verse 6 describe a disciple who does
much fruit, showing yourselves to be My disciples.” not bear fruit through abiding in Christ?
Bearing lasting fruit brings great glory to God. The 8. According to verse 16, what kind of fruit does
Father is not looking to see if we are abiding, He is Christ want His disciples to bear?
looking to see if we are bearing fruit. This is what 9. How does our lives bearing fruit bring God glory?
brings Him glory. If He sees we aren’t bearing fruit,
then He knows we aren’t abiding—because abiding is Lasting Fruit
the only way to bear fruit. A fruitless branch is of no We have seen in John 15 that it is God’s will for every
use to a vine or to a gardener. follower of Christ to bear lasting fruit. We have also
seen that the only way to do that is by abiding in
In the same way, a believer who is not demonstrating Christ. As we surrender daily to Him and allow the
Christ’s fruit is of no use to the Father. This explains Holy Spirit to control our lives, we will bear fruit.
the care He (the gardener) takes in John 15:2 to make Christ promises us that in John 15:5. In verse 16,
us fruitful. God wants to demonstrate His glory Christ is specific about the kind of fruit He wants His
through our lives. Look at God’s words in Psalm 46:10: disciples to bear—fruit that will last. So now we want
“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted to answer the question, “What does God consider
among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” lasting fruit?”
God’s mission is that His name be glorified to the
ends of the earth (Psalm 96:1-3). How has He chosen In order to answer this question, let’s go back to
to accomplish this mission? He has chosen to glorify Jesus’ parable and an example from nature. What
His name by placing us “in His Son” so that we can kind of fruit do branches bear in nature? They bear
bear fruit. fruit “after their kind.” In other words, apple tree
branches bear apples, orange tree branches bear
Using the commentary above, explain the context oranges, plum tree branches bear plums, etc. So
of John 15 to your group. Open your Bibles and have what kind of fruit does Christ intend for His branches
someone read John 15:1-17 aloud. to bear? Christlike fruit! Not fruit of this world, but
fruit that shows the world the character of the Vine.
Explain that bearing fruit is the main point of this Remember, as the branch abides in the vine, the vine
parable. Jesus’ command to “remain in Me” is so that produces the fruit - so the fruit should look like the
our lives will be fruitful. Use the following questions vine. If the “fruit” our life is bearing doesn’t look like
and the commentary above to lead your group in a Christ, then He didn’t produce the fruit, which means
discussion of God’s purpose that we bear fruit. we’re abiding in something other than Him. Abiding
and fruitfulness go hand-in-hand. You can always tell
• According to verse 2, what does God do to where you’re abiding by examining the fruit your life
branches that don’t bear fruit? is bearing.

Leader Note: The phrase “cut off” in verse 2 actually Inner and Outer
means, “to lift up.” We will be studying what this The fruit from your life is how God receives His due
means in a couple of weeks. Just make sure your group honor on earth. At its simplest level, the “lasting
does not misinterpret the meaning of the phrase in fruit” Jesus mentions in John 15:16 can be understood
light of our study. This “cutting off” or “lifting up” is the in two “categories,” so to speak. There is inner fruit,
process of making a fruitless branch fruitful. which is borne when we abide, allowing Christ to
develop His character in us. Secondly, there is outer
1. What does verse 2 say that God does to branches fruit, which is borne when we abide, allowing Christ
that are bearing fruit? to reproduce Himself through our lives as we multiply
2. What does Jesus say about a branch in verse 4? ourselves by making disciples. God desires to use both
3. According to verse 4, how are we (Christ’s our inner fruit and our outer fruit to fulfill His mission
disciples), like these branches? for us—to make disciples of all nations.
4. According to verse 5, how are we guaranteed to
bear fruit? The Fruit of Christlike Character
5. Based on verse 8, why is it so important to Christ As we abide in Christ, we will bear the fruit of a
that His disciples be fruitful? changed life. As the sap of the Holy Spirit flows

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from the Vine through our lives, we are transformed Philippians 2:5-8
(changed from the inside out) into the likeness of “Your attitude should be the same as that of Christ
the Vine. We will begin to think like Christ, love Jesus: Who, being in very nature God, did not consider
like Christ, pray like Christ and act like Christ. Our equality with God something to be grasped, but made
character is always growing and changing as we abide, Himself nothing, taking the very nature of a servant,
bearing the fruit of attitudes, motives and thoughts being made in human likeness. And being found in
that please God and bring Him glory. Let’s look at appearance as a man, He humbled Himself and became
some cross-references that will help us understand obedient to death—even death on a cross.”
this “inner fruit.”
Again in this passage we see that our lives should
Ephesians 5:1 bear the fruit of Christlike character. Our attitudes
“Be imitators of God, therefore, as dearly loved children should be like Christ’s, who humbled Himself and put
and live a life of love, just as Christ loved us and gave the needs of others before His own. His heart was
Himself up for us as a fragrant offering and sacrifice to surrendered and His will was submitted to the Father.
God.” This resulted in His whole life being committed to
reconciling others to the Father. We, too, are given the
In this verse we see the command to imitate how ministry of reconciliation (2 Corinthians 5:17-19).
Christ lived on earth. The command in this verse is
not to perform the deeds of Christ, but to imitate The Fruit of More Disciples
His character. As His character is produced in us, we As we abide in Christ, He produces His character in
will begin to imitate His behavior as well. This life us so that others see Him through our lives. As we
will bear the lasting fruit of sacrificial love that is a become more like Him, we are motivated to serve
pleasing sacrifice to God. Notice the words “just as” in others. As we demonstrate His love, mercy, goodness,
this verse. Christ is our ultimate example of a fruitful and grace our lives become tools that the Holy
life. As we bear the fruit of love and compassion, Spirit uses to convict the world of sin, righteousness
Christ is revealed through us in a way that others and judgment (John 16:7-8). As the Holy Spirit
know He loves them, so that they will want to know convicts, and we abide in Christ, we will be given the
Him too. opportunity to make disciples by pouring our lives into
others, just as Christ has poured Himself into us.
Ephesians 5:8-10
“For you were once darkness, but now you are light in God is always at work, drawing men to Himself. As
the Lord. Live as children of light (for the fruit of the we abide in the Vine we will see Him at work and
light consists in all goodness, righteousness and truth) have the opportunity to join in His work by Sharing
and find out what pleases the Lord.” the Word, Showing the Word, Teaching the Word, and
Serving the World—this is disciple-making. Let’s look
In this verse we see the comparison of life outside at some cross-references to help us better understand
of Christ before salvation, to life “in Christ.” The our mission.
command is to live as children of light. Notice that
the “fruit of the light” given in verse 9 is not a list of Romans 10:13-15
deeds, but a list of inner qualities. Here again in this “Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be
passage we see the fruit of a Christlike character saved. How, then, can they call on the One they have
that lives in goodness, righteousness and truth. As we not believed in? And how can they believe in the One
bear the “fruit of light”, we demonstrate the changing of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear
power of God to those who are still in darkness. without someone preaching to them? And how can
they preach unless they are sent? As it is written,
1 Peter 1:15-16 ‘How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good
“Just as He who called you is holy, so be holy in all you news!’”
do; for it is written: ‘Be holy, because I am holy.’”
This passage makes clear God’s plan for reaching the
In this verse we see the command to be like Christ. world. Christ’s followers must go and proclaim the
Christ was holy, so we are to be holy. The only way message of the Gospel. We proclaim with our words
for us to be holy is by abiding in Christ and allowing and we proclaim with our lives. The only hope for a
Him to produce His character in us. lost world is to call on the name of the Lord, but they
will never know this if we, Christ’s branches, are not

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abiding in the Vine, bearing His fruit of the Gospel, opportunity to break into smaller groups as well. If
demonstrating and proclaiming His message to all. you choose to do so, assign each group either the
“Fruit of Christlike Character” verses or the “Fruit of
John 17:20-21 More Disciples” verses. Allow them time to read the
“My prayer is not for them alone. I pray also for those verses and discuss them before bringing the groups
who will believe in Me through their message, that all back together to share what they learned.
of them may be one, Father, just as you are in Me and
I am in You. May they also be in us so that the world The Fruit of Christlike Character
may believe that You have sent Me.” Cross-References

This passage is from Jesus’ prayer for His disciples Ephesians 5:1
right before He goes to the cross. It is obvious from 1. What is the command in this verse?
verse 20 that Jesus expects His 11 disciples to bear 2. What kind of life are we to live?
the fruit of more disciples who will believe in Him 3. Who is our example of this type of life?
through their message. The same is true of us today. 4. How is Christ’s love described in this verse?
God expects us to bear the fruit of more disciples by 5. How will God be glorified if we imitate Christ
intentionally reproducing ourselves in others as we according to this verse?
abide in Christ. 6. What are some ways that Christ demonstrated love?
7. What are some ways that we can imitate Christ
In nature, each piece of fruit has a seed that contains by living a life of love?
the potential of bearing hundreds more pieces of fruit. 8. How is living a life of love an “inner fruit?” In
Each time we bear the fruit of a new Christ-follower, other words, what must happen in our character
that new Christ-follower has the potential of reaching in order for us to love as Christ did?
others who will reach others who will reach others. 9. How does obedience to this command help us to
The whole world and future generations depend on us fulfill our mission?
being faithful to our mission.
Ephesians 5:8-10
Matthew 28:18-20 1. How does verse 8 describe a life without Christ,
“Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in and a new life in Christ?
heaven and on earth has been given to Me. Therefore 2. How does verse 8 tell us to live?
go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in 3. How does verse 9 describe the fruit of a life in the
the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy light?
Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have 4. Is this fruit “works” or qualities of one’s character?
commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to 5. What are some practical ways that this fruit can
the very end of the age.’” be produced in your character as you abide?
6. What is the command in verse 10?
The Ultimate Fruit-Bearing Passage 7. According to what we have learned in John 15,
This is the ultimate “fruit-bearing” passage. Jesus how can you “find out what pleases the Lord?”
makes it clear in verse 18 that God has given Him all 8. Why is “bearing the fruit of light” important to
authority to issue this command. His command is to our mission?
bear the lasting fruit of disciples in all nations. This
fruit will include baptizing, teaching, demonstrating 1 Peter 1:15-16
and proclaiming. In verse 20, He assures us that He 1. What is the command in this passage?
will be with us always. The One who has been given 2. Why are we to be holy according to this verse?
“all authority in heaven and on earth” will be with us 3. How does this passage demonstrate the fact that
always as His Spirit lives in us. As we abide, Christ’s trees bear fruit “after their own kind” (the fruit
power and authority flow through our lives and the will be like the tree)?
result is the lasting fruit of more Christ followers. 4. What does it mean to be holy in all you do?
5. What does being holy have to do with our mission?
Using the commentary above, explain the two
“categories” of lasting fruit that God has purposed Philippians 2:5-8
for us to bear. Using the cross-references and the 1. According to verse 5, how should we be like
questions on the following pages, lead your group Christ?
in a discussion of lasting fruit. This would be a good 2. Based on verses 6-8, describe Christ’s attitude?

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3. What are some Christlike qualities that would 7. How does this change your purpose in life?
have to be produced in someone’s character for 8. How does God receive glory when we pour into
him to have this type of attitude? other people what the Holy Spirit pours into us?
4. How would your life be different if you had this
type of character? Conclusion
5. How does God receive glory from a Christlike In John 15:4-5, Jesus tells His disciples exactly how to
attitude? bear fruit – by abiding in Him. By explaining to them
6. Why are these qualities foundational to our how to be fruitful, He is showing them how to bring
mission? glory to God. Jesus spent three years with these
men, showing them first-hand what “lasting fruit”
The Fruit of More Disciples Cross-References looks like. They are His lasting fruit, and so are we,
because we have believed through their obedience to
Romans 10:13-15 His command to make disciples of all nations. Christ
1) According to verse 13, how is someone saved? modeled for His disciples what abiding looked like
2) Based on verses 14-15, what role do Christ on a day-to-day basis. See this truth in the following
followers have in someone believing in Christ? Scriptures.
3) How does this passage show us that it is God’s
purpose that we bear the fruit of more disciples? “I (Jesus) tell you the truth, the Son can do nothing by
4) Looking at these verses in reverse order, what is Himself; He can do only what He sees His Father doing,
the result if we as branches do not answer the because whatever the Father does the Son also does.”
call to go and preach? John 5:19
5) What happens if the lost never hear?
6) What happens if they never believe? “For I (Jesus) have come down from heaven not to do
7) So according to this passage, what is God’s plan My will but to do the will of Him who sent Me.” John
to reach the world with the Gospel? 6:38

John 17:20-21 “If you obey My (Jesus) commands, you will remain
1. According to verse 20, who else besides His 12 (abide) in My love, just as I have obeyed My Father’s
disciples is Christ praying for in this passage? commands and remain (abide) in His love.” John 15:10
2. What does Christ expect from His disciples’ lives?
3. What does Jesus pray for us in verse 21? “I (Jesus) have brought You (God) glory on earth by
4. Where does Christ pray that we will “be” in verse 21? completing the work You gave Me to do.” John 17:4
5. How does this prayer relate to what Christ taught
in the parable of the vine in John 15? These four verses show us that Christ abided in God,
6. Why does Jesus want us united “in Him” surrendering His will to the will of His Father. The
according to verse 21? (Hint: Look for the “so result was the fruit of a sinless life that demonstrated
that” phrase) the glory of God and more disciples. Christ came to
7. What does this teach us about the purpose of earth to not only tell us God’s mission for our lives,
abiding? Is it for our own sake only, or for the but to show us how to accomplish it. As we abide in
sake of the world? Him, He will continue to produce the lasting fruit that
brings glory to His Father.
Matthew 28:18-20
1. What authority has been given to Christ As you close your study time together, have someone
according to verse 18? read each of these verses aloud. Help your group to
2. Based on this authority, what command does understand that Christ abided, and the result was
Christ issue in verse 19? lasting fruit. If the Son of God had to abide in order
3. Which commands were the disciples to teach to bear fruit during His life on earth, how much more
others, according to verse 20? must we abide in Him?
4. What is Christ’s promise in verse 20?
5. Based on what we have learned in John 15, how is Application
Christ “with us always?” As a Christ follower, you will never be satisfied if your
6. Based on this passage, what is the purpose of life is not bearing lasting fruit because you are not
knowing Christ and being like Him? What does fulfilling the purpose for which you were “grafted”
He expect us to do with what He teaches us? into the Vine. Let’s examine the “fruit” of our lives. Is

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it the kind of fruit that reveals the character of Christ? For additional application of today’s lesson, a handout
Is it the fruit of more disciples? Let’s not settle for is provided for members of your group to develop
fruitless Christianity. God will do the work of making their personal testimony so they can be prepared to
us fruitful – we must only abide, surrendering our share the Word as God opens doors. Encourage them
lives to His mission of making disciples of all nations to take some time this week preparing to tell their
through us. story and practice sharing with a friend.

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 Sharing Your Story
Pray for three. Ask God to show you three people My Story
who need to know Him. Make a commitment to
spend three minutes a day praying for them that God My life before Christ:
would open their eyes to the Truth of the Gospel. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Prepare to share. Begin to prepare yourself for _____________________________________________
opportunities God will give you to bear fruit by _____________________________________________
developing your testimony of how Christ saved and _____________________________________________
changed you. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
Tips on sharing your story. _____________________________________________
n Avoid “churchy phrases” and “Christian clichés” _____________________________________________
that people who do not know Christ will not _____________________________________________
understand. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
n Be sure to exalt Jesus, not your life before _____________________________________________
knowing Him. Sin already gets enough attention _____________________________________________
from the world. People need to know what _____________________________________________
Christ can do for them and how they can begin a
relationship with Him. How I became a Christ-follower:
_____________________________________________
n Keep it simple and short. Be ready to share in two _____________________________________________
minutes or less. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
n Use a theme to contrast your life before Christ _____________________________________________
and now with Christ. Themes such as emptiness _____________________________________________
and fulfillment, hopelessness and purpose, fear _____________________________________________
and peace are things people can relate to. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
n If you became a Christ-follower at an early age, _____________________________________________
contrast your life with those who don’t know _____________________________________________
Christ or emphasize how Jesus has helped you _____________________________________________
through your life. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
n Practice with a friend who is also a Christian so _____________________________________________
you can help each other get better at telling how _____________________________________________
Christ has changed your lives.
My life now with Christ:
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
n Use the outline to the right to help you develop _____________________________________________
your story. _____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
_____________________________________________
 LESSON 4 fulfill God’s purpose for our lives. There is no way we
will ever develop a Christlike character and reproduce

ABIDE THROUGH HIS WORD that character in others by making disciples without
the power and presence of Christ at work in our lives.
He must do it through us. And we must make the
Key Passage: John 15:1-10; cross-references daily choice to allow Him to do it through us. We
must learn to “get out of our own way” (die to self)
Introduction and just abide in Him. As we remain relationally
Over the past few lessons, we have been focusing on connected to Him, He will abide in us and God’s
Christ’s words to His disciples in John 15:4-5, “Remain mission will be accomplished through our lives.
(abide) in Me, and I will remain (abide) in you. No Remember to continue to direct the group’s focus
branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain (abide) in on intimacy and connection with Christ. This will
the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain naturally lead to a fruitful life.
(abide) in Me. I am the vine; you are the branches. If a
man remains (abides) in Me and I in him, he will bear Review
much fruit; apart from Me you can do nothing.” As we Before you begin today’s study, lead your group in a
have studied the Parable of the Vine in John 15:1-17, quick review of last week’s lesson using the questions
we have learned that God has placed all believers “in below.
Christ.” This position is eternally secure. 1. Why is it so important to Christ that His disciples
bear fruit?
If we abide in Christ, the Holy Spirit flows from the Vine 2. What does God (the gardener) do to ensure that
through us, the branches, bringing to us the life and the His branches bear fruit?
power of the Vine. As we have learned, abiding means 3. What kind of fruit should our lives bear?
daily surrendering our lives to God, allowing Him to 4. How did Christ abide and bear fruit?
work in us and through us. The result of abiding is that
the branches will bear fruit. It is God’s will that every Not a To-Do List
believer have a fruitful life on earth. This is our purpose This week we will begin to look at some practical
for existing and the reason for which God saves us—so ways to help us abide in Christ. It is important to
that we will bear fruit for His glory. study in light of what we have seen in God’s Word
about abiding. Remember, there is no “list of things
Bearing Fruit to do” that ensures we are abiding. The spiritual
Last week, we studied Christ’s words in John 15:16, disciplines of the Christian life (Bible study, prayer,
“You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed community, etc.) are a way through which we
you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the abide. The goal is not “performing” these spiritual
Father will give you whatever you ask in My name.” We disciplines—the goal is an intimate relationship
examined Scripture in order to find out what Jesus with Christ. Think about it in practical terms. The
meant by “fruit that will last.” We discovered through the strength of any intimate relationship (friendship,
Word that a Christlike character and making disciples is family relationships, dating, marriage) is in how well
the lasting fruit of our lives that brings God glory. you know one another. The more deeply you know
each other, the healthier and more fulfilling the
As we abide in the Vine, the Holy Spirit works in relationship becomes. You begin to know each other’s
our lives to develop Christ’s character in us. As His needs and desires. You know how to encourage and
character is produced in us, we bear fruit that the serve one another better. You communicate better.
world can see; and the fruit we bear looks like Christ. You understand and relate better. This is true of all
When others see this fruit in our lives, the Holy Spirit relationships.
uses us to show those outside of Christ their need for
a Savior. This gives us the opportunity to share the There are many “things” you do to get to know one
Gospel and make disciples, fulfilling Christ’s command another better. You may talk on the phone, write
to all believers in Matthew 28:18-20. The purpose of letters, e-mail, go places together, etc. These “things”
abiding is so that we will bear fruit and glorify God. are ways that you grow in your relationship. The focus
isn’t so much on what you’re doing, but on whom you’re
Needing Christ doing it with, right? If you begin to focus on the things
The more we study John 15:1-17, the more we you are doing instead of the person you are doing them
understand how much we need Christ in order to with, you miss the whole point. You may be “doing”

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all of the right things, but you won’t necessarily be will help your group to understand and remember why
growing together in your relationship. Abiding in Christ we must abide through God’s Word. You may choose
is the same way. The spiritual disciplines that we to divide into smaller groups and assign the verses to
“do” are how we get to know Him better. It is how we different groups. Each cross-reference is followed by a
spend time with Him since He isn’t physically here with brief commentary and discussion questions.
us. They are how we abide. We abide “through” these
things, but not “in” these things. As you begin your study together, have everyone
open their Bible to John 15:1-10. Have someone read
Abiding Through the Word these verses aloud. Using the lesson introduction,
The most important means by which we abide is the explain to the group that we are going to begin to
Word of God. In John 15:3, Jesus told His disciples look at practical ways to abide in Christ. Remind the
that it was His Words of Truth that had made them group that these spiritual disciplines are ways that we
clean. In Verse 7, Jesus tells His disciples how abide in Christ. “Doing” these things should not be
important it is to know His Word to have an effective our focus. Christ should be our focus. After you have
prayer life. Today we will see why the Bible is so vital finished laying the foundation for today’s study, begin
if we are going to abide in the Vine and bear fruit that your study of the cross-references.
glorifies God. In order to abide in Christ, we must
communicate with Him. Like any relationship, this REASONS TO ABIDE THROUGH THE WORD
includes both talking to Him, and listening to Him.
The Word of God is His voice in our lives. His Spirit Because It Is God-breathed
helps us to understand what He is saying through Because It Is Useful
His Word. As we spend time abiding through His
Word, we get to know Christ better and we begin to 2 Timothy 3:16-17
understand His heart, His plans, and His purposes. As “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for
we know Him more, we will trust Him more. As we teaching, rebuking, correcting and training in
trust Him more, we will surrender to Him more. As righteousness, so that the man of God may be
we surrender to Him more, we will bear more fruit. thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

Opening Prayer In this passage are two important truths related to

Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying abiding in Christ. First, we see that all Scripture is God-
for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of breathed (inspired by God). This means that the Bible
every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new is not man’s ideas, or man’s words (2 Peter 1:20-21).
way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray It doesn’t “contain” the Word of God—it is the literal
that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and Word of God. Every single word is God-breathed. This
show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives is such an important truth in today’s culture. Many
in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified people, even some professing Christians and even
through your discussion today. some pastors, do not believe that “all Scripture is
God-breathed.” The second truth we see in this verse
Key Study is that Scripture is useful in our daily lives. This verse
We will begin our study today by looking at why it is so lists four ways that Scripture is useful in abiding. It is
important that we abide through the Word of God. We useful for teaching (giving us God’s commands). It is
will allow Scripture to show us the answer. Through useful for rebuking (showing us our sin). It is useful for
the following cross-references we will discover the correcting (showing us how we need to change). And it
importance of the Word in our lives. We will see how is useful for training in righteousness (maturing us).
abiding in Christ through His Word will deepen our
intimacy with Him and our dependence upon Him. In A great way to help us understand these four uses
order to help you communicate these truths with your of Scripture is to think of ourselves as being on a
group during your discussion, the lesson commentary journey. We don’t know where we’re going, but God
is organized to enable you to make a list of “Reasons does. His Word is one of the ways He guides us
to Abide Through the Word” on the board as you study through the journey. The teaching of the Word shows
together. us the road to take, rebuking alerts us when we get on
the wrong road, correcting shows us how to get back
Leader’s Note: Because there are so many verses in this on the right road, and training in righteousness keeps
portion of the lesson, making a simple list on the board us on the right road. The purpose of abiding through

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the Word is also given in this verse—so that we will be can “become” pure, but how he can stay pure. This
“thoroughly equipped for every good work.” Abiding confirms what we studied in John 15:3 when Jesus
through the Word equips us to bear fruit for God’s said, “You are already clean because of the Word
glory. I have spoken to you.” How do we live a life that
1. According to verse 16, Whose words and thoughts reflects this purity Christ has given us? By living
is the Bible? according to His Word. Verse 10 illustrates abiding
2. How much of it is His words and thoughts? through the Word as the psalmist seeks God with all
3. Read 2 Peter 1:20-21. How does this passage of his heart, asking God not to let him stray from His
confirm this truth? Word.
4. How important is this truth in our culture today?
5. What four ways is Scripture useful in our lives The psalmist is seeking God through His Word, and
according to verse 16? Discuss what each one trusting that the result will be the fruit of a pure life
means. that reflects God’s character. Notice in verse 11 that
6. What is the result of Scripture’s work in our lives knowing God’s Word is for the purpose of not sinning
according verse 17? against Him. His Word keeps us pure.
7. How does this relate back to John 15:4-5 and 1. What is the question this passage answers based
abiding in Christ? on verse 9?
2. According to verse 9, how do we keep our ways
Because It Is Our Guide pure?
3. How do we “live according to His Word” according
Psalm 119:105 to verse 10?
“Your Word is a lamp to my feet and a light for my path.” 4. According to verse 11, where must God’s Word be
in order for us not to sin?
In this short verse, we see that God’s Word is our 5. What do you think the word “hide” means in verse
source of direction and light in a dark world. Notice 11? Does it mean to keep it to ourselves like a
the words God uses in this verse. The Word is a lamp secret?
to our feet. Think about the imagery. How much light 6. How do we practically “hide” God’s Word in our
does a lamp shine in darkness? Just enough light hearts?
for the next few steps. This illustrates how we must
constantly be abiding through His Word, shining it in Because It Makes Us Holy (Sanctifies)
front of us so we can see where to step next. We face Because It Is Truth
so many choices and temptations each day, and God’s
Word lights our path, guiding our every step. John 17:17
1. How does this verse describe God’s Word? “Sanctify them by the truth; Your Word is truth.”
2. What is the purpose of a lamp?
3. Describe the darkness of the world in which we What a power-packed verse! It is from Christ’s prayer
live. for His disciples and everyone who would believe
4. Why do we need a “lamp for our feet” in our lives? in Him through their message. In the Greek, the
5. How does the Word of God “light our path?” Give word “sanctify” is a verb that means, “To separate
practical examples from your daily life. from profane things and dedicate to God; a people
6. What will happen to our “steps” and our “path” if dedicated to God; to purify internally by the renewing
we don’t use the light of the Word to guide us? of the soul; to cleanse externally.” Jesus is praying
that God would separate His followers from the world
Because It Keeps Us Pure and make them holy. How does God do this? Through
His Word, which is truth. As we abide in Christ
Psalm 119:9-11 through His Word, God develops Christ’s character in
“How can a young man keep his way pure? By living us, which sets us apart from the world. Then others
according to Your Word. I seek You with all my heart; will begin to see Christ through our lives.
do not let me stray from Your commands. I have hidden 1. What is Christ’s prayer for us in this verse?
Your Word in my heart that I might not sin against You.” 2. What does “sanctify” mean?
3. How are we sanctified according to this verse?
This passage fits beautifully with what we have been 4. How does Jesus describe God’s Word in this verse?
studying over the past few weeks about abiding. 5. What are some ways God’s Word sanctifies us on
Notice that verse 9 doesn’t ask how a young man a day-to-day basis?

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Because It is Eternal through our lives, exposing us to God and ourselves.

1 Peter 1:23-25 The word “judges” here actually means “discerning.”

“For you have been born again, not of perishable seed; God’s Word doesn’t just judge our heart from a right
but of imperishable, through the living and enduring and wrong viewpoint; it also discerns and exposes
Word of God. For, ‘All men are like grass, and all their the hidden thoughts and attitudes of our heart. The
glory is like the flowers of the field; the grass withers meaning of the word “attitudes” in this verse includes,
and the flowers fall, but the Word of the Lord stands “The mind, understanding, will, manner of feeling
forever.’ And this is the Word that was preached to you.” and thinking.” Finally, “heart” means, “The center
of physical and spiritual life; the inmost part of
This passage shows us that God’s Word is eternal. anything.”
It will never perish. The “living and enduring” Word
of God is how we have been born again (John 1:14). Share these definitions with your group prior to
In this passage a comparison is made between the discussing the questions.
perishable and the imperishable. Man and his glory 1. How is the Word of God described in this verse?
are perishable, which withers up and falls; but God 2. What is it able to do?
and His Word stand forever. It is the Word that was
preached to us. Answer the following questions using the Greek
1. According to verse 23, how have we been born definitions.
again? 1. What does it mean that God’s Word is living and
2. How are man and his glory described in verse 24? active in our lives?
3. How is God’s Word described in verse 25? 2. How much of our lives is it active in?
4. Discuss how man and his glory wither and fall 3. Based on this verse, how well are you known by
based on what you see in the world around you. God?
Give specific examples. 4. What might the Word of God reveal to us that we
5. Discuss how God and His Word stand in our don’t know about ourselves apart from it?
culture today, even though it was written 5. Why is this important as we abide in Christ?
centuries ago. Give specific examples.
6. Based on this passage, how would you respond to Because It is How We Know What is True
those who say that God’s Word is not “relevant” in
today’s culture? 1 John 4:1
7. Based on this passage, why is it important that “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the
you abide through the Word? spirits to see whether they are from God, because many
false prophets have gone out into the world.”
Because It Is Alive and Active
This verse is so important in our world today. There
Hebrews 4:12 is so much false teaching about Christ and it is easy
“The Word of God is living and active. Sharper than any to believe these lies if we are not continually abiding
double-edged sword, it penetrates even to dividing soul in Christ through His Word. This verse warns us not
and spirit, joints and marrow; it judges the thoughts and to believe everything we hear, but to test all things to
attitudes of the heart.” see whether they are from God.
1. What is the warning given in this verse?
This verse teaches us that God’s Word is not idle. It 2. How are we to judge what is true?
is alive and active in every believer’s life. Here it 3. The word “test” in this verse means, “To scrutinize
is described as a double-edged sword, penetrating to see if something is genuine.” Based on that
and dividing, exposing our deepest thoughts and definition, how should we listen to what we hear
attitudes. Looking at some of the Greek meanings of about God?
the key words in this verse will help us understand 4. Are there still “many false prophets” in the world
how deeply the Word of God works in our lives if we today?
abide through it. The word “active” is the Greek word 5. How does this verse show us that the Word of
energes, which is where we get the English word God is crucial in order to abide in Christ?
“energy.” The meaning of the word “sword” is, “A large 6. If we don’t “test the spirits” against the truth of
knife used for killing animals and cutting up flesh.” So God’s Word, what might be the result in our lives?
we see that the Word of God is energetically slicing What might we end up abiding in?

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Because It Is Our Offensive Weapon of more disciples of Christ. Last week we saw that
Jesus abided in God during His life on earth. As
Ephesians 6:13-17 He “remained” in the Father, His life bore fruit that
“Therefore put on the full armor of God, so that when glorified the Father.
the day of evil comes, you may be able to stand your
ground, and after you have done everything, to stand. His disciples, and all of us who have believed in Christ
Stand firm then, with the belt of truth buckled around through their message, are the lasting fruit of Christ’s
your waist, with the breastplate of righteousness in life on earth. As we end this lesson, we are going to
place, and with your feet fitted with the readiness that see that one of the ways Jesus abided was through
comes from the Gospel of peace. In addition to all of God’s Word. As He abided through the Word, He also
this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can gave others God’s Word. The same should be true of
extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one. Take us today. Let’s look at this truth in God’s Word:
the helmet of salvation and the sword of the Spirit,
which is the Word of God.” John 17:6-8
“I (Jesus) have revealed You (God) to those whom You
These verses teach us how to fight the enemy. Notice gave Me out of the world. They were Yours; You gave
that we aren’t to run in fear from our enemy, but to them to Me and they have obeyed Your Word. Now
stand firm and fight. The passage lists the armor that they know that everything You have given Me comes
every believer should daily “wear.” Notice that most of from You. For I gave them the words You gave Me and
the pieces of armor are defensive, in order to protect they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I
us from the “flaming arrows” Satan hurls at us. But the came from You, and they believed that You sent Me.”
sword is an offensive weapon. Satan can throw darts at
us, but he cannot stand against God’s Word. The Word John 16:13
of God is an offensive weapon. As we abide in Christ “But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will guide
through His Word, we are prepared and equipped for you into all truth. He will not speak on His own; He
battle. will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you
1. What are we told to do in verse 13? what is yet to come.”
2. Why are we commanded to put on God’s armor?
3. Does verse 13 say “if” the day of evil comes or 1 Corinthians 2:12-14
“when” the day of evil comes? “We have not received the spirit of the world but the
4. Look at verse 13 carefully. When are we to put on Spirit who is from God, that we may understand what
the armor, before the “day of evil” arrives or when God has freely given us. This is what we speak, not in
it arrives? words taught us by human wisdom but in words taught
5. What are we to do when this day comes, by the Spirit, expressing spiritual truths in spiritual
according to verse 13-14? words. The man without the Spirit does not accept the
6. What are the pieces of God’s armor? things that come from the Spirit of God, for they are
7. How is the sword different from the other pieces? foolishness to him, and he cannot understand them,
8. What does verse 17 tell us the sword represents? because they are spiritually discerned.”
9. What are some practical ways that we can put on
God’s armor? These verses show us how Jesus abided in God
10. What are some ways that you can “wield” the through His Word. This is one of the ways that
Word of God in your everyday life to fight the Christ “stayed connected” to God while on earth.
enemy? John 17:6-8 says that Jesus gave His disciples the
11. What does this passage teach you about the words that God gave Him. The result was that they
importance of God’s Word in being prepared for accepted these words and believed. God also sent
the trials, temptations, and battles that following His Spirit to guide them into the truth after Christ
Christ brings? returned to heaven. In John 16:13, Jesus told His
disciples that the Holy Spirit would not speak on
Conclusion His own, but would speak what He heard from God,
The cross-references we have studied today clearly which is what Jesus had been doing while on earth.
show us the importance of God’s Word in abiding The Spirit was how God would continue to give the
in Christ. As we conclude today’s lesson, we are disciples His Word. Then in 1 Corinthians 2:12-14, we
going to see once again that the purpose of abiding see how Christ’s ministry was continued through His
through the Word is so that we will bear the fruit followers.

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As they received the Word of God through the Holy read each one aloud. Challenge and encourage your
Spirit, they spoke and taught the words they received. group that just as Christ abided through the Word,
Notice that verse 14 says that people without God’s we must do so also. We have a responsibility to share
Spirit (unbelievers) cannot understand God’s words. We His Word with others who do not have His Spirit. As
who believe in Christ and have received His Spirit are we choose to abide daily through the Word, our lives
the only ones on this earth who can understand “what will bear the fruit of a Christlike character and more
God has freely given us” because the Holy Spirit guides disciples for Christ.
us and teaches us the truth. It is our responsibility and
privilege to abide in Christ through His Word so that we Application
can, like the early Christians, “speak not in words taught Encourage your group to start spending some extra
by human wisdom but in words taught by the Spirit, time each week studying and reading God’s Word.
expressing spiritual truths in spiritual words.” How else Remind them that we don’t read God’s Word just
will a lost world know what God has freely done for for information, but for application. The following
them, if we who can understand don’t tell them? handout can help them read and study God’s Word
more accurately and effectively.
As you conclude your study time together, have your
group turn to these three verses in their Bible and

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 LESSON 5 has a lot to say not only about abiding, but also about
the branches bearing fruit. We have established in

TIMES OF ADVERSITY earlier lessons why fruitfulness is so important to

Christ—because it brings His Father glory on earth.
We have learned what the “lasting fruit” is that Christ
Key Text: John 15:1-5 mentions in John 15:16. It is a Christlike character
and pouring our lives into other people by making
Introduction disciples.
As we have spent the last four lessons studying John
15:1-17, our focus has been on developing an intimate Since we have seen that it is God’s will for us to
relationship with Christ by abiding in Him. We have be fruitful, and that the only way to bear fruit is by
seen through His Word that abiding (remaining) in abiding in the Vine, it is time for us to examine John
Him is not about “doing” things for Him, but about 15 to understand how God (the gardener) makes us
being with Him. We abide in Christ when we choose fruitful. We know we cannot make ourselves fruitful,
daily to surrender our lives to His purposes and ways, so how does God deal with His branches? That is
focusing our lives on Him instead of on ourselves. what we will discover this week.

Abiding is developing a deeper connection and Opening Prayer

intimacy with Christ by spending time with Him, Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying
getting to know Him better. Last week we saw that for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of
one of the best ways to spend time with Christ is every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new
through His Word. way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray
that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and
Not Only for Our Own Good show you how to apply what you learn to your lives
The purpose for having an intimate relationship with in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified
Christ is not only for our own good, but also for the through your discussion today.
good of those around us. It is God’s will that all of
His “branches” in Christ be fruitful. As we receive Key Study
abundant life in Christ, it is God’s will that we bring This week we are going to focus our study on one
forth an abundant harvest for the world to see. important, and sometimes troubling, verse in the
Abundance isn’t only something we receive into our Parable of the Vine. John 15:2 says, “He (God) cuts off
lives from Christ as we abide in Him, but it is also every branch in Me that bears no fruit, while every
something that our lives pour forth into other people. branch that does bear fruit He prunes so that it will
be even more fruitful.” As we study this verse, it is
This is the beauty of abiding in Christ. We receive so important to put it in context with the rest of the
that we can give. As we bear fruit, God is glorified passage so that we do not misinterpret it’s meaning.
through our lives and we experience unspeakable joy
and satisfaction because we are fulfilling the purpose Remember, Jesus is teaching this parable to help
for which we have been saved. His disciples understand how to have the fruitful life
that God intends for every believer. The focus of the
Before we begin this study, take a few minutes to parable is abiding in Christ for the purpose of bearing
review the key points of last week’s lesson with your fruit that will last. Whatever God does or allows in
group. Use the following questions as you review: our lives is for the purpose of making us fruitful.
1. What are some of the reasons that we should
abide in Christ through His Word? …Not What You Might Be Thinking…
2. How is the Bible useful in our lives? Many would look at verse two and derive that if
3. How is the Bible alive and active in our lives? someone isn’t bearing fruit, he must not be a Christian
4. What does the Bible have to do with purity in our because of the phrase “cuts off.” But that is not what
lives? this passage is teaching at all. First, notice that the
5. How is it a weapon for us? verse says the gardener cuts off every branch “in Me”
that does not bear fruit. Remember our first lesson
Becoming Fruitful on every believer’s new position “in Christ”? Non-
This week, we are going to focus our study on how Christians are not “in Christ.” They are “in Adam” (1
the Father makes His branches fruitful. John 15:1-5 Corinthians 15:22). So Jesus cannot be talking about

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non-believers in this verse. The Parable of the Vine in one’s salvation since both types of branches are “in
John 15 refers to branches (disciples) that have been Christ.”
placed “in Me,” according to verse two.
Have the group turn to Ephesians 2:8-10. Have
Others might say that verse two is teaching that someone read this verse aloud and discuss it using the
believers who do not bear fruit lose their salvation— following questions.
that God literally “cuts” them out of the Vine. This 7. According to verse 8, how is someone saved—“by”
view does not stand up theologically, as it contradicts what and “through” what?
other Scripture. Salvation is God’s work in our lives 8. How does verse 8 describe this faith?
through His Son. We do not “do” anything to earn 9. According to verse 9, what doesn’t save someone?
salvation, therefore it makes no sense that we could Why not?
“do or not do” anything to lose it. Ephesians 2:8-10 10. Based on verse 10, what is the purpose of
clearly communicates this truth: salvation?
11. Based on this passage in Ephesians, how do we
“For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith – know that the branches that aren’t bearing fruit
and this not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not in John 15:2 cannot be “cut off” from their position
by works, so that no one can boast. For we are God’s “in the Vine”?
workmanship, created in Christ Jesus to do good works,
which God prepared in advance for us to do.” Different Branches
There are two groups of branches “in Christ” that God
Grace for a Purpose (the gardener) is dealing with in this passage. One group
This passage teaches that we have done nothing to bears no fruit, and the other bears fruit. Just as any good
earn or gain salvation. Even the faith we exercise gardener does, God lovingly and carefully nurtures both
to accept His grace and forgiveness is a gift from His healthy and His unhealthy plants. We will look at
God, so that no one can boast. We also see in this both types of branches and how the Father nurtures
passage that we have been recipients of God’s grace each differently in order to bring forth fruit.
for a purpose—in order to do the good works He has
planned for us in advance. Or, as we have seen in First, let’s look at what God does to believers who
John 15, in order to bear fruit that glorifies God. are not bearing fruit. Many people would say that
if someone isn’t bearing fruit, he must not truly be
Have your group open their Bible and turn to John saved. But John 15:2 tells another story. Here we see
15:1-5. Have someone read the passage aloud. Using a branch “in Christ” that is not bearing fruit. What
the commentary above and the following questions, is important to understand is that God doesn’t allow
lead your group in a discussion in order to put John the barren branch to remain fruitless. Verse two
15:2 in context. shows God actively intervening in order to bring forth
1. Who is the gardener for the vine and branches fruit from the branch. It is possible for a believer
according to verse 1? to not bear fruit for a time? But it is not Biblical
2. In nature, what is the purpose of a gardener? that someone would be a Christian and never bear
Does he only tend healthy plants, or both healthy fruit. Why? Because the Gardener will not allow it.
and unhealthy plants? He will intervene to make us fruitful in seasons of
3. According to verse 2, what are the two types of barrenness in our lives. What causes a believer not to
branches that the gardener tends in this parable? bear fruit? Things such as unknown or unconfessed
4. What is the position of both of these types of sin, wrong attitudes, selfishness, pride, self-reliance,
branches according to verse 2? In other words, independence from the Vine and even apathy. Many
who are they “in”? different kinds of sin can cause a fruitless branch.
5. What does He do for the branches that bear “no
fruit”? A Fruitless Season?
6. What does He do for the branches that do bear How does the Father deal with such a branch in a
fruit? fruitless season? Verse two says, “He cuts off every
branch in Me that bears no fruit.” It is in verses
Using the commentary, explain to your group that like this that a concordance is necessary to really
verse two is telling us how the Father tends to understand what this verse means. The original Greek
believers who aren’t bearing fruit, and to those who word that is translated “cut off” is the word airo; and it
are bearing fruit. This verse does not refer to losing means “To raise up; elevate; lift up, or to raise up from

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the ground.” Unfortunately, the phrase “cut off” is a you, because the Lord disciplines those He loves, and
poor translation of this word. Based on the definition He punishes everyone He accepts as a son.’ Endure
of airo, God lifts fruitless branches up off of the hardship as discipline; God is treating you as sons. For
ground. He elevates them. He lifts them up. what son is not disciplined by his father? If you are not
disciplined (and everyone undergoes discipline), then you
This won’t mean much to us if we aren’t familiar are illegitimate children and not true sons. Moreover,
with grape farming. So lets dig a little deeper into we have all had human fathers who disciplined us and
how grapes are grown to understand what Jesus we respected them for it. How much more should we
is teaching in John 15:2. Grape gardeners spend submit to the Father of our spirits and live! Our fathers
countless hours walking through the vineyards disciplined us for a little while as they thought best; but
tending to the grapes. New branches that have God disciplines us for our good, that we may share in
been grafted into the vine have a natural tendency His holiness. No discipline seems pleasant at the time,
to trail down and grow along the ground. But a but painful. Later on, however, it produces a harvest
branch growing along the ground will never bear of righteousness and peace for those who have been
fruit because it does not get the light it needs, the trained by it.”
leaves get coated in dust, and when it rains they get
mildewed. Remaining on the ground or in darkness In this passage, we see that God’s discipline is how
will cause a branch to become sick and barren. He proves to us that we are His legitimate children.
Have you ever thought of discipline that way? It is the
Lifting Up the Branches proof that God cares enough about us to intervene
So what does the gardener do? He walks throughout for our ultimate good, even though it isn’t pleasant
the vineyard with a bucket of water looking for those at the time. Notice that verse five calls this passage
branches growing on the ground. When he finds a “word of encouragement.” It should encourage us
them, he lifts them up off of the ground and washes that God loves us enough to discipline us when we
them off with the water, and then wraps them around aren’t bearing fruit. If He didn’t, we would continue
a trellis or ties them up to keep them from trailing to “grow along the ground” and live in darkness, never
back down to the ground and to help them get the experiencing the joy and satisfaction of thriving in the
light they need. Soon, these branches that were once Vine. So what is God’s discipline?
sick and useless are bearing fruit. When a gardener
finds fruitless branches he doesn’t “cut them off” and Godly Discipline
throw them away—they are too valuable for that. First, let’s look at the Greek definition of the word
He lifts them up, cleans them off, and helps them to “discipline” to help us understand the Gardener’s work
become fruitful again. in our lives. Because so many people don’t receive
godly discipline from their parents, the comparison in
This is the picture of God’s work in the life of a this passage between God’s discipline and our earthly
believer who is not bearing fruit that Jesus is painting father’s discipline can be upsetting and confusing.
in John 15:2. It is the picture of a loving Father God is the perfect Father, and any shortcomings or
carefully tending to barren branches, helping them to mistakes of an earthly father should not be attributed
thrive again. So how does God “lift up and wash off” to our Heavenly Father.
fruitless believers? Scripture teaches us that He does
this through discipline. The Greek meaning of “discipline” in this passage is,
“The whole training and education of children, which
Discipline Is Not Punishment relates to the cultivation of mind and morals, and
Most of us in North America do not have a Biblical employs for this purpose commands, admonitions,
view of God’s discipline. We mistake God’s discipline reproof and punishment.”
for His judgment or His punishment. In order to
understand God’s work in our lives, we must have a Notice in this definition that discipline isn’t punishment
Biblical view of His discipline. Let’s look at a passage by God. Discipline employs punishment in order to
in Hebrews that shows us how God views discipline. train and educate. When God disciplines a barren
branch, He isn’t punishing it. He is “lifting it up” to
Hebrews 12:5-11 the position it needs to be in to become fruitful again.
“You have forgotten that word of encouragement that Verse five of this passage encourages believers not to
addresses you as sons: ‘My son, do not make light of the “lose heart” when we are disciplined by God. Why?
Lord’s discipline, and do not lose heart when He rebukes Verse six says because He “disciplines those He loves.”

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Enduring Education fruitless branches. Make sure to keep the focus on
Verse seven says to “endure hardship as discipline.” how God brings about fruitfulness.
The word “hardship” here is the same Greek word
as “discipline.” So God is telling us to endure His Before you begin the discussion, share the Greek
education and training, even though it may “employ” definition of “cuts off” in John 15:2 with the group.
uncomfortable measures such as commands, Also share the information from the commentary
admonitions, reproof, and punishment (which literally about how grape farmers deal with fruitless branches.
means scourging). But guess what the word “endure” 1. Based on the Greek definition of “cuts off” (lift up)
means in verse seven? It is the Greek verb hypomeno, and the information about grape farming, how
and it means, “Remain; abide; bear bravely and calmly.” does God deal with believers who are not bearing
Hebrews 12 is telling us to abide through discipline! fruit (John 15:2)?
Isn’t this just what Jesus is teaching us in John 15? 2. So is it possible for a believer that bears no fruit
He says in John 15:4 that no branch can bear fruit if it to stay that way forever? Why or why not?
doesn’t abide in the vine. And in John 15:2 Jesus says 3. What does that mean for you as a Christ
that His Father “cuts off,” or disciplines every branch follower? Are you comforted by this truth that
that bears no fruit in order to make it fruitful. God will not allow you to remain in a season of
not bearing fruit?
Discipline Enables Us to Flourish
Do you see how God’s discipline goes hand-in-hand Explain that we are going to see in Scripture that
with John 15:2? We must not view God’s discipline in God’s discipline is His way of “lifting up and washing
our lives as a negative thing. His discipline is lovingly off” a fruitless believer.
administered in order to lift us up and wash us off,
cleansing us from the sin in our lives that leaves us Have the group turn to Hebrews 12:5-11 and have
barren, thus enabling us to flourish in our position in someone read the passage aloud to the group. Then,
the Vine. Just like those grape branches in nature, using the commentary, share the Greek definitions of
it will always be our natural tendency to fall back “discipline” and “endure” with the group. Using the
into patterns of sin, living in darkness even after we commentary and the following questions, lead them
place our faith in Christ. But John 15:2 is good news through a discussion of God’s discipline.
for every believer! God will never allow us to remain 4. How does verse 5 tell believers to receive God’s
in a sinful, fruitless season for too long. Eventually, discipline?
He will intervene. Notice what Hebrews 12:11 says. 5. Why should we have this attitude towards His
This discipline will not be “pleasant” at the time. In discipline according to verse 6?
fact, it may even seem “painful.” However, verse 11 6. What does verse 7 say about hardship?
promises that it will eventually produce “a harvest 7. Based on the Greek definition of “endure,” what
of righteousness and peace for those who have been are we to do throughout God’s discipline in our
trained by it.” lives?
8. According to verse 8, what would be true about
Discipline Brings a Harvest you if God did not discipline you?
Remember God’s goal in discipline, or in “cutting 9. What is the comparison made in verses 9-10?
off” (lifting up) the fruitless branches is not to be 10. Based on verse 10, what is God’s ultimate goal in
mean or punish anyone, but to produce fruit where disciplining any believer?
there is none. Discipline brings a harvest for God’s 11. What is the reality of discipline during the time
glory through the lives of those who abide through we are receiving it based on verse 11?
it and allow themselves to be trained by Him. What 12. What does discipline produce in those who are
good news! God will never allow a branch to remain trained by it according to verse 11?
fruitless forever. He will lift it up, wash it off, and 13. How does verse 11 relate to John 15:2 in dealing
cause it to flourish again. with a branch that isn’t bearing fruit?
14. What are some ways that we, like new grape
Explain to your group that we are going to begin branches, might “grow along the ground,”
our study of John 15:2 by looking at the branches allowing ourselves to become dirty and sick
that “bear no fruit.” Have a volunteer read John 15:2 branches that don’t bear fruit?
aloud once again. Then, using the commentary and 15. Why is God’s discipline necessary in such
the following questions, lead your group through situations?
a discussion of what it means for God to “cut off” 16. What does this passage in Hebrews teach you

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 about God’s love for you? Pruning
17. Should you be more concerned if you are being The Greek word translated “prune” or “purge” in John
disciplined, or aren’t being disciplined by God? 15:2 is the same Greek word that is translated “clean”
Why? or “cleansed” in the very next verse. There we read,
“You are already clean because of the Word I have
The Other Branches spoken to you.” Here we see the two-fold work of the
Next, we are going to look at the other group of Holy Spirit using the Word of God that we’ve already
branches Jesus mentions in John 15:2. He says, “… studied.
while every branch that does bear fruit He (God)
prunes so that it will be even more fruitful.” We have First, God uses His Word to open our eyes to the
seen how God disciplines believers who aren’t bearing need for a Savior. God exposes our sinfulness to us
fruit in order to make them fruitful again. Now, we through His Word and then uses His Word to help us
will see how God “prunes” fruitful branches in order to understand that Jesus is the only solution, the only
bring forth even more fruit through them. Savior, for our sinful condition. He draws us to Jesus
by using God’s Word so that we will be saved as we
Once again, it will be useful for us to examine how confess Christ as our Lord. Then, we are eternally
a grape farmer deals with fruit-bearing branches. cleansed (justified) of our sin before God as He places
Does he leave them alone since they are already us “in Christ.” Once in Christ the Holy Spirit uses
yielding fruit? No, he prunes them to make room for God’s Word to expose our wrong motives, selfishness,
more fruit. Because grape vines grow so quickly the pride, fascinations and distractions, etc. so that we
branches become so dense that light cannot reach the can let go of those things and experience the spiritual
area where fruit grows. If left alone by the gardener, transformation needed to abide more in Him. The
the branches will always favor new growth over fruit. result is that we will bear even more fruit for God’s
Therefore, pruning is the most important function of a glory.
gardener to keep a branch healthy and bearing fruit.
In addition to His Word, God uses adversity within the
Similarities life of a believer to help us experience transformation
Don’t you see some similarities in believers who are in order to bear fruit. The Bible calls these adversities
bearing fruit? “Rampant growth” can also occur in “testing of our faith” and “trials”. Let’s look at this
our lives, choking out the light of Christ in us. This truth in Scripture:
unhealthy growth could be characterized as those
things in our lives that aren’t necessarily bad, but James 1:2-4
keep us from bearing more fruit. They are the things “Consider it pure joy, my brothers, whenever you face
that take up our attention and time, keeping us busy trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing
and preoccupied so that we aren’t reaching our full of your faith develops perseverance. Perseverance must
“fruit-bearing” potential. So what does the Gardener finish its work so that you may be mature and complete,
do with such a branch? He prunes it so that more not lacking anything.”
fruit can be produced through the branch.
James 1:12
The Greek word for “prune” in John 15:2 is kathairo; “Blessed is the man who perseveres under trial, because
and it means, “To purge; to cleanse of impurity; to when he has stood the test, he will receive the crown of
prune trees and vines from useless shoots.” What life that God has promised to those who love Him.”
Jesus is saying in this verse is that when the Father
sees that a believer is bearing fruit, He will purge Romans 5:3-5
(remove) useless things from his life so that he can “Not only so, but we also rejoice in our sufferings,
become even more fruitful. If left alone, the branch because we know that suffering produces perseverance;
would “overgrow” and choke out the light necessary to perseverance character, and character, hope. And hope
continue to bear fruit. does not disappoint us, because God has poured out His
love into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, whom He has
So how does God “prune” a believer? How does He given us.”
remove unnecessary things from our lives that we
might be holding onto? He does so by speaking truth Tested
to us from His Word and by the testing of our faith. In all of these passages we see that the testing of
our faith through trials and even suffering is how God

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develops our character. Have you ever thought about following questions, continue your discussion of God’s
a trial or suffering as a good sign? It is evidence that pruning in our lives.
you are a fruit-bearing branch! God is pruning your 8. According to verse 3, what should be our attitude
life, removing needless things in order to bring forth amidst suffering? Why?
more fruit. This is why James 1:2 says to consider it 9. What does perseverance lead to based on verse 4?
“pure joy” when we face trials. It is evidence that we 10. What does character bring?
are abiding in Christ and bearing fruit. We can know 11. What does verse 5 promise about hope?
that when God tests our faith, it is for the purpose of 12. How does suffering produce perseverance,
bringing forth the fruit of perseverance, character, and character, and hope in our lives?
hope in our lives. And we are promised in James 1:12
that there is a crown of life for all who abide through Conclusion
God’s pruning process in their lives. In light of what we have learned about discipline,
God’s Word and trials, John 15:2 is a reminder of how
Explain to your group that now we are going to look much the Father cares for every branch that He has
at God’s work in the lives of believers who are bearing graciously placed “in” the Vine. Every branch in Him
fruit. Review John 15:2 and what it says about God will benefit from the Gardener’s careful care. The
pruning fruitful branches to make them more fruitful. challenge is for us to receive His nurturing with a
joyful heart, learning to be thankful for His loving
Using the commentary above, share the purpose and intervention in our lives. It may be painful at the
process of pruning in grape farming. Share the Greek time, but it ensures a harvest for His glory if we abide
definition of “prunes” in John 15:2 as well. Point out through it.
that it is the same word that is translated “clean” in
verse 3. Explain that the way God “prunes” fruitful As you close your time together, break into smaller
branches is by using His Word and the testing of their groups for deeper discussion. Have the groups discuss
faith through trials and suffering. Explain the two-fold the following questions and pray together before you
work of the Spirit—to expose our sinfulness and to dismiss.
transform our lives. 1. Based on today’s lesson, what do you think is the
difference in God’s discipline and His testing in
Have the group turn to James 1:2-4 and read it aloud. our lives?
Then have someone skip down and read James 1:12. 2. How might we know whether we are being
Using the commentary and the following questions, disciplined, or tested?
lead the group in a discussion of these verses. 3. How can unconfessed sin in our lives lead to
1. According to verse 2, what should be a believer’s God’s discipline? If this is the case, how should
attitude towards trials in his life? we respond to Him?
2. Why should this be his attitude, according to 4. Based on all you have seen in God’s Word
verse 3? today, how are we as believers able to rejoice in
3. Why is perseverance so important in a Christian’s discipline, trials, suffering and the conviction of
life according to verse 4? the Holy Spirit through God’s Word?
4. How do trials test our faith? 5. What does rejoicing and abiding through such
5. How does God use trials to “prune,” or rid our times show the world around us about our God?
lives of useless things that hinder “new fruit” in 6. Are you in the midst of a test of faith right now
our lives? that you would like to share? How can your
6. How can seemingly “good growth” in our lives brothers and sisters pray for and encourage you
actually end up keeping us from bearing more during this “pruning” season?
fruit, just like a grape branch?
7. According to James 1:12, what is the reward Application
for fruitful Christians who abide and persevere Ask God to reveal to you this week anything in your
through God’s pruning in their lives? life that you need to let go of in order to bear more
fruit for His glory.
Have the group turn in their Bible to Romans 5:3-5
and read it aloud. Using the commentary and the

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 LESSON 6 Intimacy Through Prayer
This week we are going to study another practical

ABIDE THROUGH PRAYER way to develop intimacy with Christ in our daily lives—
abiding through prayer. Our focus will be on John
15:7-8 which says:
Key Text: John 15:7-8; Matthew 6:9-13; cross-references
“If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask
Introduction whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to
As we begin the sixth lesson of our study of the My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing
Parable of the Vine, we have learned from God’s Word yourselves to be my disciples.”
that apart from Christ we can do nothing. Just as a
branch must remain in the vine in order to bear fruit, This is a wonderful promise by Christ to His followers;
we must abide in Christ in order to bear fruit for God’s but it is also one that can easily be taken out of context—
glory. As believers, we cannot produce fruit and we especially the phrase “whatever you wish.” We are
are not expected to do so. Producing fruit is what the going to see how to pray in a way that lines up with this
Vine does; and the branches bear it, as they remain passage. Jesus never lies, so this promise is true. It is
connected to the Vine. When God redeems us, He possible to abide in Christ through prayer in such a way
places us “in Christ.” As we abide in that position that “whatever we ask” will be given to us.
through developing an intimate relationship with
Christ, our lives will become fruitful. Opening Prayer
Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying
Through the Word and Trials for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of
In the last two lessons we have studied how to every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new
abide in Christ through His Word, and how to abide way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray
through times of adversity in our lives. Last week that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and
we studied John 15:2 and learned that the “cutting show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives
off” and “pruning” of the branches by God is actually in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified
good news for the branches. This is the Gardener’s through your discussion today.
way of ensuring that His branches are fulfilling
their purpose of bearing fruit that will last. It is Key Study
how He keeps us healthy. God “lifts up” branches As we begin our study today, it is important to
that are not bearing fruit through loving discipline. remember that prayer isn’t a religious ritual that we
He “prunes” those branches that are bearing fruit perform. Prayer is a way that we abide in Christ. The
through testing their faith (trials and suffering) to purpose of this study is developing intimacy with
make sure that they don’t “overgrow” and become so Christ. There is no way to stay “connected” with Christ
dense they cannot bear more fruit. These seasons on a daily basis without prayer. Therefore, there is no
of discipline, trials and suffering are the acts of a way to bear fruit without a Biblical prayer life. Just
loving Father, and they prove that we are legitimate like any relationship in our lives, communication is
children. essential. Not all prayer connects us relationally with
God. If we come to God in prayer with a list of what
Before you begin this lesson, lead your group in a we want Him to do for us, and never seek His heart
quick review of the main points of last week’s lesson and His desires for our lives, we aren’t connecting with
on abiding through times of adversity. Use the Him, and our prayers will not be “fruitful.” In this kind
following questions to help guide your review. of prayer, He becomes like a “Santa Claus” in our lives—
1. How does God (gardener) tend to the branches someone we go to when we want or need something.
in Christ that aren’t bearing fruit? Explain what
“cuts off” means in John 15:2 when you answer. This type of prayer relationship is not what Jesus
2. Describe God’s discipline according to the meant in John 15:7. So what does He mean?
passage we studied in Hebrews 12. Throughout Scripture, God promises to answer our
3. How does God (gardener) tend to the branches prayers. Here are some of these Scriptures:
in Christ that are bearing fruit? Explain what
“pruning” means in John 15:2 when you answer. John 15:7-8
4. What does the testing of faith and suffering “If you remain in Me and My words remain in you, ask
produce in a believer’s life? whatever you wish, and it will be given you. This is to

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My Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing Receiving Anything We Ask
yourselves to be My disciples.” We will receive anything we ask for in prayer if we are
asking for that which God already wants to do. How
1 John 5:14-15 do we pray this way? How do we know what God
“This is the confidence we have in approaching God: already wants to do? By abiding in Christ through His
that if we ask anything according to His will, He hears Word. The deeper and more intimate our relationship
us. And if we know that He hears us—whatever we and connection with Christ, the more we will know
ask—we know that we have what we asked of Him.” Him and His will.

Mark 11:24 Have your group turn in their Bible to John 15:7-8.
“Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, Have someone read it aloud. Using the commentary
believe that you have received it, and it will be yours.” and the following questions, lead your group in a
discussion of these verses.
John 14:13-14 1. What is the promise Jesus makes regarding
“I will do whatever you ask in My name, so that the prayer in verse 7?
Son may bring glory to the Father. You may ask Me for 2. What is the condition of this promise?
anything in My name, and I will do it.” 3. Based on what we have studied so far in this
series, what does Jesus mean by, “If you remain in
These verses contain the promise of answered Me, and My words remain in you?”
prayers, but they also contain conditions. These 4. How will abiding be reflected in prayer?
conditions are: 5. In verse 8, Jesus gives a reason that “whatever
• Remaining in Christ and His words remaining in you ask” will be granted. What reason does He
you—John 15:7 give?
• Asking according to God’s will—1 John 5:14
• Believing that you have received it—Mark 11:24 Explain that you are going to lead the group in a brief
• Asking in Christ’s name—John 14:14 “tour” of other places in Scripture where promises
regarding prayer are made. Have the group turn in
The question of whether God will answer our prayers their Bible and ask volunteers to read the verses.
is not one about God, but about us. Are we praying in After each verse, use the commentary and following
such a way that we are abiding in Him and His words questions to discuss them.
are abiding in us? Are we asking according to God’s
will and not our own? Do we pray in full faith that we 1 John 5:14-15
have received what we ask? Are we asking in Christ’s 6. What is our confidence in approaching God,
name? These are the questions we must ask ourselves according to verse 14?
if we are going to pray in a way that develops a deeper 7. How do we know that He hears us, according to
intimacy and connection with Christ. verse 14?
8. The word “hears” in this passage is the Greek
Seeking God’s Heart word akouo, and it means, “To attend to; to
If we are praying in the ways described in these consider what has been said.” Based on this
verses, then we are no longer bringing God a list of definition, what does it mean that God “hears” our
demands, nor are we “tossing up” our requests, hoping prayers if we pray according to His will?
He might answer. Our prayer life will become a time 9. And if He hears us, according to verse 15, what do
of seeking God’s heart, and praying prayers that He we know?
wants to answer because they reflect His desires and
will for our lives. This is how Jesus wants us to pray. Mark 11:24
10. What is the condition for answered prayer in this
These Biblical “conditions” to the promise of answered verse?
prayer are the key to understanding why Christ made
such a bold promise. Another way to say this promise John 14:13-14
based on these verses is, “If you are abiding in Me 11. In Whose name should we make our requests in
through My Word and asking in complete faith, you prayer, according to this passage?
can ask anything you want, as long as it is according 12. Asking “in Christ’s name” means to ask in
to God’s will and reflects My character, and I promise accordance with His character. How does this
God will answer your prayer.” affect the meaning of this passage?

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13. Why will Christ grant our requests based on verse Matthew 6:9-13
13? “This, then, is how you should pray: ‘Our Father in
heaven, hallowed be Your name, Your kingdom come, 
   
Our Desires Aligned to God’s Will Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Give us
Explain to your group that based on all of these cross- today our daily bread. Forgive us our debts, as we
references, Jesus isn’t saying in John 15:7 that we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into
can ask God for anything that we want and receive temptation, but deliver us from the evil one.”
it. Christ is saying that when we abide in Him, God
will change our desires to align with God’s will. And Our Father In Heaven,
when we pray according to His will, we can have Hallowed (Holy) Be Your Name
confidence that God will answer our prayers. Why All answered prayer begins with God. In the model
does praying according to God’s will assure that He Jesus gave us, He is teaching us to begin our prayers
gives us whatever we ask? Have a volunteer read the with acknowledging God’s position and character. He
following passage in order to answer that question. is “in heaven,” which means He rules and reigns over
all; and He is hallowed. This means He is holy, and we
Isaiah 46:9-11 are to be in reverent awe of Him. He is above all, and
“Remember the former things, those of long ago; I am His ways are higher than our own.
God, and there is no other; I am God, and there is none
like Me. I make known the end from the beginning, When we begin prayer in worship of God, we
from ancient times, what is still to come. I say: My humble ourselves before Him. The strength of our
purpose will stand, and I will do all that I please. From prayers is in knowing God through His Son Jesus
the east I summon a bird of prey; from a far-off land, a Christ. How can we acknowledge and worship Him
man to fulfill My purpose. What I have said, that will I if we do not know Him? Notice that Jesus says to
bring about; what I have planned, that will I do.” call Him “Father.” In this model, Jesus teaches us
not to come before God with a list of demands, but
God will fulfill His purposes and His will with or to begin our prayers in humble adoration for who
without us according to this passage in Isaiah. Prayer God is and in respect of His authority over all the
is His way of involving us in the process. It is a way earth (Isaiah 6:3).
that we abide in Christ (connect with Him intimately).
When we pray according to God’s will, He will answer Your Kingdom Come
our prayers because He will accomplish His plan on In this part of Christ’s prayer we see complete and
the earth. Now we must answer the question, “How total allegiance to God’s kingdom. We align ourselves
do I pray according to God’s will?” with God’s will on earth. Many times we are double-
minded, forgetting that our citizenship is in heaven
Practical Prayer (Philippians 3:20). By praying, “Your kingdom come,”
The rest of today’s lesson is going to be practical Christ is showing us that our prayers should focus on
in nature. Christ’s disciples asked Him the same God’s priorities and not our own. This is our way of
question we are asking today. In Luke 11:1, Jesus’ saying to God, “You are in control, not me.”
disciples saw Him praying and when He finished,
they asked, “Lord, teach us to pray.” Christ’s lesson in Your Will Be Done On Earth As It Is In Heaven
prayer that day was what is now known as “The Lord’s Once we have acknowledged God’s character
Prayer” or the Model Prayer. and position, and pledged our allegiance to His
kingdom, we must submit our will to the Father’s
This prayer was not meant to be a religious ritual will. Remember from our earlier cross-references,
that is mindlessly repeated as it has become today. this is how we know God will answer our prayers—if
It was an intimate conversation between Jesus and we pray according to His will. This is the part of our
His twelve disciples as He answered their request to prayers when we seek God’s viewpoint, praying for
teach them how to pray. How did He teach them to what He wants to do. Our prayers must reflect divine
pray? He prayed in front of them. He was giving them purposes. There is no way we will ever be able to
a model to follow, not a prayer to be repeated word pray this way if God’s Word does not fill our minds.
for word. It is still a model for us to follow that can This is why Jesus said in John 15:7, “If My words
help us pray according to God’s will. Let’s examine remain in you…” In order to know God’s will, we must
the prayer line by line in order to understand why abide in Christ. We must surrender to Him, allowing
Jesus told His followers to “pray in this way.” Him to change our hearts and minds.

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Give Us Today Our Daily Bread simple, but easy to miss. Notice that throughout
This is when we present our needs to God and the passage, Christ prays using the pronoun “our,”
confess our dependence upon Him. Notice Christ instead of “my.” Throughout the prayer, He is
asks for “daily bread.” Not enough bread for a week, praying for Himself and for others. This teaches us
or a month, or a year. Just enough for “today.” This that our prayers should not only be for ourselves,
models for us daily intimacy with Christ through but also for others.
prayer. It presupposes that tomorrow, we will be
talking to Him again. And also note that Jesus prays Taking Your Group Through The Model Prayer
for “bread.” He doesn’t teach us to ask for filet Have your group turn in their Bible to Matthew 6:9-
mignon. We are to ask God to meet our needs, not 13. Explain that today we are going to see how Jesus
our earthly desires, and trust Him that He will come taught His disciples to pray. Explain that this prayer
through. was never meant to be repeated word for word, but
it is a model for how to pray. Have someone read the
Forgive Us Our Debts, passage aloud.
As We Also Forgive Our Debtors
The “debts” Jesus is referring to are moral debts, not Using the commentary, write each line of the Lord’s
financial ones. This is the part of our prayers that Prayer on the board (you may want to write it before
involves confession and forgiveness of sins. Notice class begins). Go back through the passage line by
the order in which Jesus prayed as He taught His line with the group, writing a brief explanation next
disciples. He begins with worship and adoration of to each line explaining Christ’s model. As you go
the Father, followed by allegiance to His kingdom through each line, give a brief description of Christ’s
and submission to His will. Then Jesus humbly asks model using the commentary above. You may write
that God will meet His basic needs for this day. It is something like the following:
natural that confession would come in such a prayer. • Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name –
As we meditate on God’s holiness and His provision, Worship
the Holy Spirit will convict us of our sin so that we • Your kingdom come—Allegiance
can confess it to the Father, which builds greater • Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven—
intimacy with Him. Submission to God’s will
• Give us today our daily bread—Needs/Faith
And Lead Us Not Into Temptation, • Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our
But Deliver Us From The Evil One debtors—Confession/forgiveness
Finally, we ask for God’s guidance and protection from • And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us
the evil one (Satan). Christ knew that His disciples from the evil one—Guidance/Protection
could not handle Satan alone. Christ Himself prayed
for His disciples’ protection in John 17:11,15. This is The remainder of the lesson is going to be taking a
the part of our prayers where we cry out to God in deeper look into each “line” of Christ’s model prayer.
poverty of Spirit, acknowledging that we need Him Break everyone into smaller groups and give each
every moment of every day in order not to fall short group one of the handouts for deeper discussion. If
of His righteous standards. This is when we express you don’t have enough groups for each to receive one
our desire to please Him by obeying Him, and yet also handout, you may give more than one handout to the
acknowledging that we cannot do this apart from Him. groups. In a very small setting (6-8 people), you can
assign each “group” reading to one person, and ask
Prayer That Models Abiding them to complete the questions on their own—let
As you can see, Christ gave His disciples quite a the exercise “scale” to your group size. Give them
lesson in how to pray in Matthew 6:9-13. This model 20-25 minutes to complete their work and then let
falls right in line with Jesus’ promise in John 15:7-8. each group share with the rest of the class what they
This is a prayer model that shows us how to pray in a learned.
way that fulfills Christ’s “conditions” of abiding in Him,
His words abiding in us, praying according to God’s It will be helpful for you as a leader to complete
will, and praying based on the character of Christ (in each group assignment yourself prior to class so that
His name). you can facilitate discussion and help answer any
questions they have. The group assignments are listed
You may be thinking, “When do we pray for the to follow for your use.
needs of others in this model?” The answer is

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 GROUP IN-CLASS BREAKOUT WORK Luke 9:59-62
7. What did the man want to do “before” he followed
Group One Christ in verse 59?
“Our Father in heaven, hallowed be Your name.” 8. How did Jesus respond to his request in verse 60?
Worship 9. What did Jesus tell the man to “proclaim”?
10. What did another man want to do before he
Read the following passages and answer the followed Christ in verse 61?
questions that follow. 11. How did Christ respond to his request?
12. How does this passage illustrate how important
Daniel 2:19-23 allegiance to the Father’s kingdom is to Christ?
Jeremiah 32:16-25 13. How do all of these passages relate to Jesus
1. How do these prayers compare to how Jesus telling His disciples to pray, “Your kingdom come”
teaches us to pray? in Matthew 6:10 (the Lord’s Prayer)?
2. How does Daniel worship and adore God in these
prayers? Spend a few moments together in prayer, aligning
3. How does Daniel acknowledge God’s character in yourselves with His will by expressing your allegiance
these prayers? to His kingdom (authority, rule, right to reign).
4. List some of the characteristics of God that
Daniel acknowledges in these prayers. Group 3
5. How does Daniel acknowledge God’s position and “Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven”
authority in these prayers? Submission to His Will
6. Do you think these are examples of prayers that
please the Father? Why or why not? Read the following passages and answer the
7. What can you learn from these examples that will questions that follow.
help you as you approach God in prayer?
Romans 12:1-2
Spend a few moments together in prayer, not asking 1. According to this passage, how can you “test and
God “for” anything, but just worshiping and adoring approve” what God’s will is? Note: The phrase
Him for who He is and His authority over all. “test and approve” in verse 2 literally means, “To
recognize as genuine after examination.”
Group Two 2. Based on this passage, is it God’s will that you be
“Your kingdom come” able to recognize His will?
Allegiance 3. How do we renew our minds in order to recognize
His will?
Read the following passages and answer the
questions that follow. James 4:1-3
4. According to verse 1, what causes fights and
Matthew 6:33 quarrels among believers?
1. Based on Matthew 6:33, what are we to “seek first”? 5. What are the 2 reasons given in verses 2-3 for
2. The Greek definition of the word “kingdom” in why we sometimes don’t receive what we ask for
Matthew 6:33 actually means, “Royal power, from God?
kingship, dominion, rule; not to be confused 6. What are some “wrong motives” we have when
with an actual kingdom but rather the right or we pray?
authority to rule over a kingdom.” Based on this 7. How does this passage relate to submission to
definition, what is Jesus teaching in this verse? God’s will?

Mark 8:34 Luke 22:39-44

3. What must we do in order to follow Christ (be His 8. What did Jesus request from God in verse 42?
disciple)? 9. How did Jesus submit to the Father’s will in verse 42?
4. What does it mean to deny yourself? 10. In this passage, was Jesus’ will (desires) ever in
5. How does this verse show that Jesus expects conflict with the Father’s?
allegiance to God’s kingdom from His followers? 11. How did Jesus handle this conflict of wills?
6. How does denying yourself relate to what we 12. How does verse 44 describe Jesus’ anguish as He
have studied about abiding in Christ? prayed in submission to God’s will?

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13. What encouragement do you get from this meet all of your needs.
passage for when your feelings and will conflict
with what God wants to do in your life? Group 5
14. What if Jesus had not submitted to God’s will? “Forgive us our debts, as we also forgive our debtors”
15. What are the consequences if we, Christ’s Body, Confession and Forgiveness
do not submit ourselves to God’s will?
Read the following passages and answer the
Spend a few moments praying together, submitting questions that follow.
yourselves to God’s will.
Hebrews 10:10
Group 4 1. What has God already done for us according to
“Give us today our daily bread” this verse? In other words, what have we “been
Needs made”?
2. Through what have we been made holy?
Read the following passages and answer the 3. For how long, according to this verse?
questions that follow.
1 John 1:9
Philippians 4:19 4. According to this verse, what are we to do in
1. What is God’s promise to us in this verse? prayer?
2. How many of our needs will He supply? 5. What is God’s promise if we do so?
3. What is the difference in a “need” and a “want”? 6. If we have already been forgiven and made holy
4. According to Whose riches will He meet our according to Hebrews 10:10, why should we
needs? confess our sins like 1 John 1:9 says to? What
5. How are Christ’s riches different from earthly does sin do to our fellowship with God, even
riches? though our relationship with Him is secure?
(Look up Isaiah 59:2 to help you answer)
Jeremiah 17:5-6
6. Who is “cursed” according to verse 5? James 5:16
7. What are some ways that we tend to “trust in 7. What are believers commanded to do in this verse?
man” instead of trusting in God for our needs to 8. Why?
be met? 9. How are the prayers of a righteous man described?

Job 12:7-10 Matthew 6:14

8. According to verses 7-8, who can teach us of 10. According to this verse, what must we do in order
God’s provision? to be forgiven of our own sins and enjoy intimacy
9. What do these “know” based on verse 9? with Christ?
10. How is God described in verse 10? 11. How can bitterness and unforgiveness towards
11. What does this teach you about His ability to others result in a lack of intimacy with Christ?
meet all of your needs?
Spend a few moments praying together as a group for
Matthew 6:25-34 any sins you are struggling with.
12. What are we “not” to worry about according to
verse 25? Group 6
13. Who is our example in such faith, based on verse “And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from
26-30? the evil one”
14. How are we to pray for our needs, according to Guidance and Protection
verses 31-34?
15. What does verse 32 teach us about God’s Read the following passages and answer the
knowledge of our needs? questions that follow.
16. Why is it so hard not to worry about tomorrow?
17. What does worrying show about our faith in God? Luke 22:31-32
1. What request did Satan make regarding Peter?
Spend a few moments in prayer together, thanking 2. What did Christ do for Peter according to verse 32?
God for His provision in your life and His ability to 3. What did Jesus pray for Peter?

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1 Peter 5:8 Conclusion
4. How is Satan described in this verse? Give each group a few minutes to share some of the
5. How, then, should we “be”? key points of their discussion. You will not have time
6. Based on this verse, why should we pray for God’s for them to share all they studied and learned. You
guidance and protection? might want to give them all a copy of the different
“group studies” from this lesson for their personal
1 Corinthians 10:13 study time this week. As you close your time together,
7. What is God’s promise to believers regarding the remind the group that the purpose of prayer is not
temptations we will face in life? to get what we want from God, but to develop our
8. What is the difference in “getting out of it” and in intimacy with Him by abiding in Christ through prayer.
“standing up under it?”
Prayer is how God involves us in His work on earth.
2 Corinthians 2:14 He wants to reveal His will to us through His Word
9. How does Christ always “lead us” based on this and His Spirit—but He will not if we are not abiding in
verse? Christ. As we remain closely connected in the Vine,
10. What does it mean to triumph? God will show us how to pray, and what to pray for.
11. What does this verse teach you about how These are the prayers that He promises to answer.
God will answer if you pray, “lead us not into Prayers based on His agenda, and not our own.
temptation, but deliver us from the evil one?”
Should we fear Satan? Let’s be a people connected to God through prayer.
If we remain in Christ, and His words remain in us,
John 17:15 we will receive whatever we ask for in prayer. Why?
12. How did Jesus pray for His followers in this verse? Because it is to God’s glory that we bear fruit (John
13. Why doesn’t He want us “taken out of the world?” 15:7-8).

Spend a few moments praying together, asking God to

protect and guide you.

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 PRAYER JOURNAL
Date
What I’m praying for today
­




Prayers God has answered

Date
What I’m praying for today
­




Prayers God has answered

Date
What I’m praying for today
­




Prayers God has answered


 LESSON 7 about the context in which Jesus said these words.
He was days away from dying on the cross, and weeks

WALKING IN THE SPIRIT away from returning to His position at God’s right
hand in heaven. And yet He says, “Apart from Me you
can do nothing.”
Key Text: John 15:9-17; cross-references
Jesus Was Departing…
Introduction The disciples were appointed to bear fruit. And yet
The purpose of the “Abide” series has been to learn they are branches that must remain in the Vine in
through Scripture that intimacy with Jesus Christ is order to do so. But their Vine was about to leave the
the only way that we can live out God’s purpose for earth. So how were they going to be able to remain
our lives. Throughout the Parable of the Vine in John (abide) in Christ and bear fruit? Jesus isn’t only
15, Christ reminded His disciples that apart from Him, teaching them about their need for intimacy with Him
they could do nothing. We have seen how important in these last days before His death. He also is using
it is to abide in Christ through His Word and prayer— these last precious moments with His disciples to
not because we “have to,” but because it is a way to pave the way for the One who was coming from the
spend time with Christ, getting to know His heart and Father to be with His disciples after He returned to
aligning ourselves with His purposes and plans. heaven. The Father was sending someone to be with
them who would keep them connected to God and
We have also learned that God is the loving gardener to Christ. This is how they would “remain” in Christ—
who “lifts us up” during seasons of barrenness in order through the promised Holy Spirit.
to make us fruitful, and “prunes” us during fruitful
seasons to bring forth more fruit from our lives. Opening Prayer
Because of this truth we can rejoice, even in hardships, Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying
because we know that whatever tests or trials God for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of
allows into our lives is for the purpose of making us every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new
fruitful. way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray
that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and
In John 15:16, Jesus told His disciples that He show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives
appointed them for the purpose of bearing fruit that in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified
will last. Doing so brings glory to God. When others through your discussion today.
see in us the fruit of a Christlike character, God is
glorified through our lives. As we abide, we receive Key Study
the power and the life of the Vine. This is not only for We were never intended to live the Christian life
our own good, but also for the good of those around on our own. We cannot earn salvation. We cannot
us who need Christ. As we remain in Him, Christ will to become like Christ. And we cannot make
empowers us through His Spirit to bear lasting fruit disciples of all nations through human effort. We
by making disciples as we choose to pour our lives simply cannot live a life that honors God in our own
into others. strength. God has been trying to tell us this truth
since the beginning of time. When sin separated us
Before you begin this week’s lesson, lead your group from God, He already had a plan to redeem (buy back)
in a quick review of last week’s lesson on abiding in us to Himself. When the time was perfect, He sent
Christ through prayer. Use the following questions as us a Savior and His name is Jesus Christ. He lived a
you review. perfect life as a man, took our sins upon Himself when
1. What is Christ’s promise to us regarding prayer He willingly gave up His life on the cross, and made
found in John 15:7? a way for us to once again have a relationship with
2. What conditions did we find in Scripture for God through faith in Him. This is something we could
receiving whatever we ask for in prayer? never have done on our own.
3. How did Jesus teach His disciples to pray in
Matthew 6:9-13? Because of Christ’s sacrifice, when a sinner repents
4. Briefly explain this model Jesus taught them. of his sin and surrenders his life to God, confessing
Jesus as his Savior and Lord, God forgives him and
Christ’s words to His disciples in John 15:5 were places him “in Christ” forever. God knew we needed
absolute: “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” Think a Savior, so He sent His Son. But what happens after

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we place our faith in Christ? Are we all of a sudden Do we know that today? Do we understand as
able to live the Christian life on our own since we’ve believers that apart from Christ we can do nothing?
been forgiven and declared righteous? Not according Nothing. Christ said that word. We are a completely
to Jesus. He said, “Apart from Me you can do nothing.” useless branch that will never bear fruit in our own
power, but when we abide in Him, we will bear lasting
Disconnected From God’s Power? fruit for His kingdom. We will never fully understand
Jesus knew that once He left the earth, His disciples and appreciate the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives if
would be helpless to bear fruit, no matter how much we do not first believe Christ’s words in John 15—apart
they wanted and tried to do so. Why? Because Christ from Him we can do nothing. Look at the following
was their connection on earth to God’s power. When passage.
they were with Christ, they had access to the power of
God to glorify Him on earth. They had Christ physically John 15:9-17
with them, pouring His life into theirs and teaching “As the Father has loved Me, so have I loved you. Now
them what the Father wanted them to know. He was remain in My love. If you obey My commands, you will
their teacher and their guide, leading them into the remain in My love, just as I have obeyed my Father’s
great mysteries of God. All authority had been given to commands and remain in His love. I have told you this
Christ on earth, and He gave authority to the disciples so that My joy may be in you and that your joy may be
during His time with them so that they could join in His complete. My command is this: Love each other as I
ministry (Matthew 10:1). With Christ leading them and have loved you. Greater love has no one than this, that
helping them, they could participate in God’s work on he lay down his life for his friends. You are My friends if
earth. you do what I command. I no longer call you servants,
because a servant does not know his master’s business.
So how would they “remain in Christ” after He was Instead, I have called you friends, for everything that
gone? How would they stay connected to the power I learned from My Father I have made known to you.
and presence of God so that they could continue to You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed
bear fruit? They would no longer be in need of a you to go and bear fruit—fruit that will last. Then the
Savior, since Christ would finish that work before He Father will give you whatever you ask in My name. This
returned to heaven. They had placed their faith in is My command: Love each other.”
Him, leaving everything to follow Him. What they
would need, however, was a helper. They would need If this passage doesn’t show us our need for help
someone to connect them to Christ and to the Father, in living the Christian life, what else will? Look
so they could continue to have access to His power, at Christ’s commands to His disciples: Remain in
presence, and authority in order to glorify Him on My love, obey My commands, love each other as I
earth. have loved you, bear fruit that will last, and love
one another. This passage reminds us again of our
Christ knew what they needed. Acts 1:4-5 says, “On desperate need for the power and presence of Christ
one occasion, while He (Jesus) was eating with them, in our lives. Not only do we need Him for salvation;
He gave them this command: ‘Do not leave Jerusalem, but we continue to need Him every minute of every
but wait for the gift My Father promised, which you day. Intimacy with Christ through the Holy Spirit is
have heard Me speak about. For John baptized with our only hope of fulfilling Christ’s command to remain
water, but in a few days you will be baptized with the in His love.
Holy Spirit.” Christ told His disciples before He was
crucified that He would not leave them alone. He told Leading Your Group Through John 15
them that God was sending help for them, to be with Have your group open their Bible and turn to John 15:9-
them forever. 17. Have someone read it aloud. Using the commentary
above, introduce the foundation for today’s lesson—the
Apart from Christ… disciples’ need for a helper as well as our need today
Christ’s disciples knew that they could do nothing for a helper. Using the following questions, lead your
apart from Christ’s presence in their lives. They had group in a discussion of John 15:9-17.
been living life with Him for three years, witnessing 1. What are all of the commands that Christ gives
first-hand His power and authority. They also saw His disciples in this passage?
His connection with the Father. The disciples knew 2. According to verse 10, how do we remain in His love?
that without Christ’s help, guidance, and power, they 3. According to verse 14, what is the proof that we
would be useless to God’s kingdom. are Christ’s friends?

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4. Based on verses 10 and 14, how important is A Counselor
obedience in the life of a believer? Again in this passage we see Jesus saying that those
5. What reason does Jesus give for calling His who love Him will obey His commands. This is not
disciples friends in verse 15? a way to earn salvation, it is the result of salvation.
6. According to this passage, who made the Father When we place our faith in Christ, God sends the Holy
known to the disciples? Could they know God on Spirit to live in us. The Spirit brings the power of
their own? God that we need in order to be able to obey Christ’s
7. Why did Christ choose and appoint His disciples commands, bearing fruit for His glory. Obedience is
according to verse 16? evidence that we are truly Christ-followers. Notice
8. Do you think it is possible for someone to fulfill that Jesus calls the Holy Spirit “another Counselor”
Christ’s commands in this passage apart from in verse 16, and calls Him “Counselor” again in verse
God’s power? Why or why not? 26. In order to understand the significance of this,
9. Review what Christ told His disciples in John we need to see what the definition of “Counselor” is
15:4-5. in this passage. It is the Greek word parakletos, and
10. What was about to happen to Jesus when He told it means: “Summoned, called to one’s side, one who
this parable? pleads another’s cause, an intercessor, helper, aider,
11. What problem did this create for the disciples assistant, defense, legal assistant, advocate.” Doesn’t
based on what Jesus said in verses 4-5? this definition describe exactly what Jesus had been
for His disciples while He lived on the earth? He
“The Helper” had been their advocate before God, their defender,
We are going to spend the next part of the lesson intercessor, and helper. Christ is the one that God
digging into Scripture to see what Jesus told His “summoned to our side” to “plead our case” before
disciples about the helper that the Father was Him.
sending them. What would be His purpose in their
lives? What would He do for them? These are Now Christ tells His disciples in verse 16 that He is
important questions because the same applies to us going to ask the Father to send “another Counselor.”
today. God sends the Holy Spirit to every believer. Christ has been our Counselor in coming to
Just as the Holy Spirit would be the disciples’ salvation, and the Holy Spirit is our Counselor in
connection to Christ and to God after Jesus left the living out our salvation. He is our helper, advocate,
earth, He is also our connection to Christ and to and our assistant in bearing fruit. Notice in verse
God. The Holy Spirit is how we are able to abide in 17 that Christ tells His disciples that they know this
Christ’s love. Spirit because He “lives with you.” How had God’s
Spirit lived “with” the disciples? Through Christ
John 14:15-21 living with them because God the Father, Christ the
“If you love Me, you will obey what I command. And Son, and the Holy Spirit are all one. So by living
I will ask the Father, and He will give you another “with” Christ, they had been living “with” the Holy
Counselor to be with you forever—the Spirit of truth. Spirit. Soon, however, the Spirit will be “in you”
The world cannot accept Him, because it neither sees (verse 17).
Him nor knows Him. But you know Him, for He lives
with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as Teacher and Reminder
orphans; I will come to you. Before long, the world Verse 20 shows us that the Holy Spirit is how we are
will not see Me anymore, but you will see Me. Because united (connected) to God and to Christ. Verse 26
I live, you also will live. On that day you will realize also says that the Holy Spirit is our teacher and our
that I am in My Father, and you are in Me, and I am reminder. Christ had taught them while He was with
in you. Whoever has My commands and obeys them, them, and the Holy Spirit would continue that work in
he is the one who loves Me. He who loves Me will be their lives:
loved by my Father, and I too will love him and show
Myself to him.” Romans 8:26-27
“In the same way, the Spirit helps us in our weakness.
John 14:25-26 We do not know what we ought to pray for, but the
“All this I have spoken while still with you. But the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groans that words
Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in cannot express. And He who searches our hearts knows
My name, will teach you all things and will remind you the mind of the Spirit, because the Spirit intercedes for
of everything I have said to you.” the saints in accordance with God’s will.”

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Intercessor now His ambassadors, and God makes His appeal
Do you remember what we studied about prayer last through our lives to the world, “Be reconciled to God”
week? If we pray according to God’s will, He will give (2 Corinthians 5:20).
us whatever we ask. This passage teaches us that the
Holy Spirit is our intercessor, and He prays according Notice also in verses 8-11 that another reason the
to God’s will. When we do not know what to pray, He Holy Spirit was coming was to convict the world of
intercedes for us: guilt in regard to sin, righteousness, and judgment. In
verse 13 Jesus says that the Holy Spirit will not speak
John 16:5-15 on His own, but will give the disciples the words of
“Now I am going to Him who sent Me, yet none of you the Father. Notice again the similarity between what
asks Me, ‘Where are You going? Because I have said these Christ had done for the disciples as their Counselor,
things, you are filled with grief. But I tell you the truth: it and what the Holy Spirit would do as their Counselor.
is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go away, In John 17:8 Jesus prayed: “For I gave them the words
the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, I will send You (God) gave Me and they accepted them.” Christ
Him to you. When He comes, He will convict the world of has been their teacher and guide, making known to
guilt in regard to sin and righteousness and judgment: in them the words of God. Now, the Holy Spirit would
regard to sin, because men do not believe in Me; in regard continue that work. This will bring glory to Jesus
to righteousness, because I am going to the Father, where (verse 14).
you can see Me no longer; and in regard to judgment,
because the prince of this world now stands condemned. Acts 1:8
I have much more to say to you, more than you can now “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes
bear. But when He, the Spirit of truth, comes, He will on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in
guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own; He all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
will speak only what He hears, and He will tell you what
is yet to come. He will bring glory to Me by taking from This passage teaches us where our power comes
what is Mine and making it known to you. All that belongs from to live out Christ’s mission to make disciples
to the Father is Mine. That is why I said the Spirit will take of all nations. The Holy Spirit not only brings the
from what is Mine and make it known to you.” presence of God, but also puts the power of God into
our lives.
In this passage, Christ makes a shocking statement to
His disciples. In verse 7 He says, “I tell you the truth: Understanding More About the Holy Spirit
It is for your good that I am going away. Unless I go Break your class into 3 groups for the following
away, the Counselor will not come to you; but if I go, assignment. Remember, the exercise can “scale” to
I will send Him to you.” The disciples were probably your group—for 6-12 people, it’s fine to have groups of
thinking, “What!? What do You mean it’s for our good 2 or 3 folks, or even “groups” of one. Give each group
that You go away? How could anything be better one strip of paper with the following passages:
for us than You here with us?” Think about Christ’s
statement. In the previous passage (John 14:15-20), Group One: John 14: 15-21; John 14:25-26
Christ told the disciples that they had been living with Group Two: Romans 8:26-27; Acts 1:8
the Holy Spirit, but soon the Spirit would live in them. Group Three: John 16:5-15
Unless Christ went away, the Holy Spirit would not be
sent to live in them. Tell each group to look up their assigned passage(s)
and read them together. Their assignment is to
Empowered to Continue Christ’s Ministry discuss the verses and make a list of all of the ways
God’s presence had been with them through Christ’s that the passage shows how the Holy Spirit helps
presence on earth, but what they needed now was believers to abide (remain connected to) Christ.
for God’s presence to be in them, empowering them
to continue Christ’s ministry. Christ was God’s Give them about 10 minutes to complete the
ambassador on earth, sent not only to die on the assignment and then allow each group to read their
cross for our sins, but to pour His life into a few men, passage(s) aloud to the class and share what they
showing them the way to God. His plan was one learned. As each group shares their list, make a list
of multiplication. When Christ returned to heaven, on the board that shows how the Holy Spirit is our
it became these men’s responsibility, and ours, to connection to Christ. Use the commentary above to
continue Christ’s ministry on God’s behalf. We are clarify or add to the discussion.

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“Living In the Spirit” to the group how these verses show us that we can
Now that we have seen how the Holy Spirit is the One be inhabited by the Holy Spirit, and yet not “filled”
who makes it possible for us to abide, let’s look at (controlled) by Him. Be sure to share the Greek
some Scripture to help us understand how to live in definition of “full.”
the power of the Holy Spirit instead of trying to bear
fruit in our own power. Just because the Holy Spirit Now, break into two smaller groups. Assign each
is living in someone doesn’t mean that the Holy Spirit group one of the following passages:
is controlling him. We as believers must choose daily,
moment by moment, to “walk in the Spirit.” In other Romans 8:5-17
words, we must choose to give control to the Spirit Galatians 5:16-25
and not to our flesh. When the Holy Spirit doesn’t
control us, we will not bear fruit because the Spirit is Their assignment is to read the passages and discuss
our connection to the Vine. He is the “sap” that flows what they learn from them about the sinful nature
from the Vine to the branches. and the Spirit. Give them a few minutes to discuss
the passages and then bring them back together
Ephesians 5:18 to discuss what they learned. Feel free to give the
“Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to debauchery. groups the Greek definitions that pertain to their
Instead, be filled with the Spirit.” passage that are listed in the commentary that
follows if you’d like.
Acts 6:3
“Brothers, choose seven men from among you who are Use the commentary below, especially the Greek
known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn definitions, to guide the discussion and further clarify
this responsibility over to them…” what the verses mean as the groups share what they
learned.
Both of these passages were written to believers, and
yet they say to be “filled” with the Spirit, and to find Romans 8:5-17
men who are “full” of the Spirit. Believers already have “Those who live according to the sinful nature have their
the Holy Spirit because God sends Him to live in us the minds set on what that nature desires; but those who
moment we place our faith in Christ. So what do these live in accordance with the Spirit have their minds set on
verses mean? The meaning of the word “full” here what the Spirit desires. The mind of sinful man is death,
is, “Hollow vessels; covered in every part; thoroughly but the mind controlled by the Spirit is life and peace; the
permeated with.” In this context to believers, being sinful mind is hostile to God. It does not submit to God’s
“filled” means to be controlled by the Spirit. law, nor can it do so. Those controlled by the sinful nature
cannot please God. You, however, are controlled not by
A Contrast the sinful nature but by the Spirit, if the Spirit of God lives
In Ephesians 5:18, Paul is contrasting being drunk with in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ,
wine to being “filled” with the Spirit. Being “controlled” he does not belong to Christ. But if Christ is in you, your
by wine leads to debauchery. These verses show us body is dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because
that it is possible to be inhabited by the Holy Spirit, of righteousness. And if the Spirit of Him who raised
meaning that He lives in you, and yet not be controlled Jesus from the dead is living in you, He who raised Christ
by the Spirit. This is evident in Acts 6:3 as they are from the dead will also give life to your mortal bodies
looking for men “among the brothers” who are “full of through His Spirit, who lives in you. Therefore, brothers,
the Spirit.” We have already learned in earlier lessons we have an obligation—but it is not to the sinful nature, to
that it is possible to be “in Christ” through salvation, live according to it. For if you live according to the sinful
and yet not be abiding in Him. This is the same nature, you will die; but if by the Spirit you put to death
principle. We must choose to yield control of our lives the misdeeds of the body, you will live, because those who
to the Holy Spirit every day. Just because the Spirit is are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. For you did
alive in us doesn’t mean we are bearing fruit through not receive a spirit that makes you a slave again to fear,
His power. We must surrender to His leadership, and but you received the Spirit of sonship. And by Him we
then we will abide and bear fruit. cry, “Abba, Father.” The Spirit Himself testifies with our
spirit that we are God’s children. Now if we are children,
Have your group turn in their Bibles to Ephesians 5:18 then we are heirs—heirs of God and co-heirs with Christ,
and Acts 6:3 as someone reads them aloud. After you if indeed we share in His sufferings in order that we may
have read the verses, use the commentary to explain also share in His glory.”

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Sinful Mind Versus The Spirit result will be that you won’t gratify the desires of the
Verses 5-8 of this passage contrast living according sinful nature. The word “live” in verse 16 is translated
to the sinful nature with living according to the Spirit. “walk by the Spirit” in the King James Bible. It is
We see that the sinful nature brings death, but the the Greek word peripateo, and it means, “Make one’s
Spirit brings life and peace. The sinful mind is hostile way; conduct one’s self.” Verse 16 is saying, “Conduct
to God and cannot please Him (cannot bear fruit). yourself by the Spirit, and you will not give in to the
Those without the Spirit do not belong to Christ. In desires of the sinful nature.”
verse 10 we see the conflict within believers because
of the Spirit and the flesh. Paul writes, “Your body is A Choice
dead because of sin, yet your spirit is alive because of We have a choice how we conduct ourselves. Will
righteousness.” The dead body and the living spirit we walk through life according to the sinful nature,
are in opposition to one another. Christ said, “The or according to the Spirit of Christ. Verse 17 says
spirit is willing but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). that the Spirit and the flesh will always be in conflict
with one another. The acts of the sinful nature are
In verse 12, Paul says that we have an obligation—not to listed in verses 19-21, followed by a warning that
the sinful nature, but to the Spirit. Verse 13 shows us those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom
that it is the Spirit of Christ in us that enables us not of God. The fruit of the Spirit is listed in verses 22-
to act according to sinful desires. It says, “…if by the 23.
Spirit you put to death the misdeeds of the body, you
will live.” We have a choice to exercise the power of Notice that it doesn’t say “fruits” of the Spirit
the Holy Spirit in us and choose not to gratify the sinful (plural) but “fruit” of the Spirit (singular). There
desires of our flesh. is one fruit, and it is love, joy, peace, patience,
kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and
Verses 14-17 remind us that we are God’s children. self-control. Anyone who has the Holy Spirit living
The Spirit we have received is not one of fear, but in him can bear this fruit. You don’t get “part” of
one of adoption. It is through the Holy Spirit that we the fruit. The Spirit brings the power to bear all of
are able to call God Father. Verse 16 says the Holy these. These aren’t “spiritual gifts.” It is fruit that
Spirit living in us testifies with our spirit that we are is borne through our lives if we choose to “walk” by
children of God. And if we are God’s children, then we the Spirit.
are co-heirs with Christ.
Conclusion
Galatians 5:16-25 Galatians 5:25 says, “Since we live by the Spirit,
“So I say, live by the Spirit, and you will not gratify let us keep in step with the Spirit.” This is such a
the desires of the sinful nature. For the sinful nature wonderful verse when you understand the Greek
desires what is contrary to the Spirit, and the Spirit meanings of the words “live” and “keep in step.”
what is contrary to the sinful nature. They are in When it says, “Since we live by the Spirit,” it isn’t
conflict with each other, so that you do not do what you the same word for “live” that was used in verse 16,
want. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under which meant, “to conduct one’s life.” This is the
law. The acts of the sinful nature are obvious: sexual Greek word zao, and it means, “To enjoy real life;
immorality, impurity and debauchery; idolatry and breathe; be among the living; active; blessed.” So
witchcraft; hatred, discord, jealousy, fits of rage, selfish Paul is saying, “Since we have been given real life
ambition, dissensions, factions and envy; drunkenness, by the Spirit.” The phrase, “keep in step” is the
orgies, and the like. I warn you, as I did before, that Greek word stoicheo, and it means, “To proceed
those who live like this will not inherit the kingdom in a row as the march of a soldier; to direct one’s
of God. But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, life.”
patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness
and self-control. Against such things there is no law. What verse 25 is saying is since we have been
Those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the made alive (given real life) by the Spirit of Christ
sinful nature with its passions and desires. Since we who lives in us, let’s fall in line and follow His
live by the Spirit, let us keep in step with the Spirit.” direction as soldiers of God. Can you see the
imagery of this verse? What would happen if as an
This passage also shows us the conflict between the army of believers we “fell in line” behind the Holy
Spirit of Christ living in us and the desires of our sinful Spirit, surrendering our lives to His leadership.
nature. Verse 16 says to “live by the Spirit” and the What would the lost world around us see? They

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would see a Church bearing the fruit of love, joy, Application
peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, This week in your time alone with God at the
gentleness, and self-control. They would see beginning of each day, seek to be conscious of
an army of Christ followers fulfilling Christ’s choosing to “live by the Spirit” instead of by the flesh.
command in John 15:9 to remain in His love. They Surrender control and ask God to fill you with His
would see Christ in us, the hope of glory! Spirit each day so you can bear His fruit for His glory!

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 LESSON 8 Christ. We cannot do it on our own. We must remain
in Him.

ABIDE THROUGH COMMUNITY Before you begin this lesson, spend a few minutes
reviewing the key points of this series with your
Key Text: John 15:1-17; cross-references group. Use the following questions to help guide your
review.
Introduction 1. What does it mean to abide in Christ?
“Remain in Me, and I will remain in you. No branch 2. What is the purpose of the branches?
can bear fruit by itself, it must remain in the vine. 3. How does God tend to branches that aren’t
Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in Me. I bearing fruit?
am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains 4. How does God tend to branches that are bearing
in Me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from fruit?
Me you can do nothing.” 5. Why should we abide in Christ through His Word?
How is the Bible useful in our lives?
For the last seven weeks, we have been meditating 6. How did Christ teach us to pray?
on the meaning and implications of these words that 7. What is the role of the Holy Spirit in a believer’s
Christ spoke in John 15:4-5. We have learned that these life?
words are an invitation to all Christ-followers to pursue
and grow in a deep, intimate relationship with Jesus This week, we are going to finish our study of the
Christ. He is calling us to abide in Him—to remain Parable of the Vine in John 15:1-17. We will see that it
connected to Him through His Spirit each and every is God’s plan that we abide in Christ as a community
day of our lives. He is reminding us that we need Him of believers. We were never meant to live our lives in
desperately not only for salvation, but also to live out Christ alone. We need one another. Throughout John
our salvation and to fulfill the purpose of being placed 15:1-17, the pronoun “you” is always plural. Notice
“in Him,” which is to bear fruit for the glory of God. that Christ says “branches” and not “branch.” In verse
14 He uses the word “friends,” not “friend.” He is
Not Motions or Activity addressing His disciples not as individuals, but as a
The command to abide is not calling us to go through group united in Him.
the motions of religious ritual or activity. Christ is
encouraging us to surrender control and depend on Opening Prayer
Him daily, spending time with Him through His Word Begin your time in study of God’s Word by praying
and prayer. This is how we connect with Him, hear for your group. Pray that God will open the heart of
from Him, know His will, and align ourselves with His every person and reveal Himself to you all in a new
plans and purposes each day. way as you study and discuss His Word together. Pray
that the Holy Spirit will guide you into the truth and
The Holy Spirit show you all how to apply what you learn to your lives
Last week we learned that the Holy Spirit is our helper, in a practical way. And pray that God will be glorified
our teacher, and our guide. He is the Counselor sent to through your discussion today.
us by Christ to be in us, forever sealing us in the Vine.
He is our advocate, interceding for us in accordance Key Study
with God’s will, and giving us the words of God— just as We are going to begin today by looking at three
Christ did when He was on the earth, and continues to different passages that teach us about abiding in
do at the right hand of the Father. Christ through community. As these passages show
us, the goal is not just to attend “church.” In fact,
God has “set us up” to succeed in glorifying Him with nowhere in Scripture do we see “church” as a place.
our lives. He sent His Son to save us when we were Scripture describes “church” as a people united in
dead in our sins. Christ is now at the right hand of Christ. Yes, we may gather in different locations
the Father, living to make intercession (pray) for us around the globe, but “church” is not a location, a
(Romans 8:34). And He has given us the Holy Spirit to denomination, or a building.
be our helper and our guide.
The first part of the key study today will be observing
The key to abiding is not activity—it is intimacy. God and discussing passages that teach us how God
has given us everything we need in order to abide in defines the Church theologically. The second part will

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focus on passages that teach us how we should abide not to compare ourselves to one another. A foot is
together practically through community. different from a hand, but both are important parts
of the body. Just because one isn’t like the other
1 Corinthians 12:12-26 doesn’t mean it isn’t a part of the body. It is the
“The body is a unit, though it is made up of many parts; same with Christ’s Body. In fact, verses 17-24 show
and though all its parts are many, they form one body. us that the differences and diversity within the
So it is with Christ. For we were all baptized by one Body strengthen it.
Spirit into one body—whether Jews or Greeks, slave
or free—and we were all given the one Spirit to drink. Lastly, we see complete unity in verses 25-26. There
Now the body is not made up of one part but of many. is to be no division in the Body. When one part
If the foot should say, “Because I am not a hand, I do suffers, we all suffer. When one part is honored, we
not belong to the body,” it would not for that reason all rejoice. This is an important truth for the North
cease to be part of the body. And if the ear should American church today. Many times there seems
say, “Because I am not an eye, I do not belong to the to be an attitude of competitiveness and criticism
body,” it would not for that reason cease to be part of between different church “locations.” We allow
the body. If the whole body were an eye, where would superficial things like music style and how formally
the sense of hearing be? If the whole body were an ear, or casually we dress for worship gatherings to divide
where would the sense of smell be? But in fact God us or unite us. According to this passage, if we tear
has arranged the parts in the body, every one of them, one another down, we are tearing ourselves down
just as he wanted them to be. If they were all one part, and injuring the Body of Christ because we are one
where would the body be? As it is, there are many in Him.
parts, but one body. The eye cannot say to the hand, “I
don’t need you!” And the head cannot say to the feet, Ephesians 2:19-22
“I don’t need you!” On the contrary, those parts of the “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and
body that seem to be weaker are indispensable, and the aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and
parts that we think are less honorable we treat with members of God’s household, built on the foundation
special honor. And the parts that are unpresentable are of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus
treated with special modesty, while our presentable Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him the whole
parts need no special treatment. But God has combined building is joined together and rises to become a
the members of the body and has given greater honor holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are
to the parts that lacked it, so that there should be no being built together to become a dwelling in which
division in the body, but that its parts should have equal God lives by His Spirit.”
concern for each other. If one part suffers, every part
suffers with it; if one part is honored, every part rejoices Family
with it.” In this passage, Paul describes believers as “fellow
citizens” and “members of God’s household.” We
A Comparison are a family united in our allegiance to God and
In this passage, Paul makes a logical comparison His kingdom. God’s household was built on the
between the physical body, and the Church. This foundation of the apostles, and Christ Himself is the
passage is where we get the term, “Body of Christ” cornerstone. A cornerstone is the most important
to describe the community of believers all around part of a building. Notice that the Apostles are the
the world. In verse 12, Paul says that even though a foundation on which God’s house is built. They were
physical body is made up of different parts, it is still the first generation of Christ-followers. Because of
one body. It is the same with all of the “branches” their obedience to Christ’s mission of making disciples
in Christ. We are all different, but we are still “in” of all nations, we are now “bricks” in His house also.
the same Vine and we bear the same fruit of that Verse 21 says it is “in Christ” that the whole Church
Vine. We may live in different places, speak different is united and built. He is what keeps the house from
languages, have different strengths, and worship crumbling and falling down.
together in different ways, but if we are worshipping
the same God through Christ, then we are one Body. Ephesians 4:11-16
“It was He who gave some to be apostles, some to
United be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be
Notice in verse 13 that it is the Spirit living in us pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for
that unites us. Paul encourages us in verses 14-16 works of service, so that the Body of Christ may be

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built up until we all reach unity in the faith and in the Also point out that Jesus uses the words “branches”
knowledge of the Son of God and become mature, and “friends” when He teaches this Parable.
attaining to the whole measure of the fullness of
Christ. Then we will no longer be infants, tossed back Share with them that today we are going to finish
and forth by the waves, and blown here and there our study of abiding in Christ by seeing that Christ
by every wind of teaching and by the cunning and never intended for us to abide in Him apart from
craftiness of men in their deceitful scheming. Instead, one another. We have been placed “in Him” as a
speaking the truth in love, we will in all things grow community of faith.
up into Him who is the Head, that is, Christ. From Him
the whole Body, joined and held together by every A Group Exercise
supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, Break into three groups, and give each group one
as each part does its work.” passage to study together. As before, you can “scale” the
exercise to your group—even a breakout “group” of one
This passage says that it is Christ who gifts some is just fine. The group assignments are included below
within the Body to be leaders. Why? In order to so you can work through them before class if you’d like.
prepare God’s people to serve. Notice that this Give the groups about 15 minutes to complete their
passage does not say the Church leaders are to be the work. Then, have a representative from each group read
only ones serving. Their gifts have been entrusted to the passage aloud and share what the group learned.
them so that they can prepare each part of the Body Use the commentary above to help guide discussion.
to do its work. What happens when we serve? Verses
12-13 say the Body will become mature and unified in Group One
the faith. 1 Corinthians 12:12-26
Read the passage and answer the following questions.
No Longer Infants 1. How does verse 12 describe believers as a whole?
The result of this unity and maturity is that believers 2. How are we united according to verse 13?
will no longer be “infants” in our faith. We will no 3. What logical comparison does Paul make in
longer be “tossed back and forth” by the waves of verses 14-20?
false teaching and popular opinion. Instead, verse 15 4. How does this affect the way we relate to one
says, we will speak the truth in love and grow up into another and function based on verses 21-25?
Christ, who is the “head” of the Body. He, so to speak, 5. Why has God combined the parts of the Body and
is the “brains” behind the whole operation. Notice given greater honor to the parts that lacked it
in verse 16 that our growth comes from Christ, but according to verse 25?
“every supporting ligament” holds us together. God 6. Do you think there is division in the Body of Christ
has united us in Christ (the head) through His Holy today? Explain your answer.
Spirit. But it is our responsibility to hold ourselves 7. How can division be avoided, according to verse
together in this unity by each doing our work as one 25? (Hint: Look for the contrast word “but.”)
part of the Body. 8. According to verse 26, how should unity cause
one part of the Body to treat other parts?
Christ and Each Other 9. Does the Body of Christ suffer together like this?
Notice in all three of these passages that we need 10. Does the Body of Christ rejoice for one another
Christ, and we need one another. He is our chief like this?
cornerstone and our head. But we are His Body. In a 11. How would the Body of Christ be different if we
physical body, the body parts are how the thoughts, suffered and rejoiced together?
ideas, and plans of the “brain” are accomplished. Just 12. What are some ways we could suffer with those
like the branches bear the fruit of the vine. If each who suffer and rejoice with those who are
part of the Body is not doing its part, the mission will honored?
not be accomplished in the way the Head intends
for it to. We do not function independently of one Group 2
another, but instead are interdependent on each Ephesians 2:19-22
other. We have been united by God’s Spirit for our Read the passage and answer the following questions.
good and for God’s glory. 1. According to verse 19, how is the community of
believers described?
Using the lesson introduction, explain to your group 2. What were we outside of Christ according to
that the word “you” in John 15:1-17 is always plural. verse 19?

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3. What is God’s household built on according to various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one
verse 20? speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he
4. What is a cornerstone? should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all
5. How are we joined together according to verses things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To Him
21-22? be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen.”
6. How does this relate to what we have learned in
John 15:1-17 about our position in the Vine? God has gifted us all in different ways. According to
7. How is a foreigner different from a family this passage, the purpose of these gifts is to “faithfully
member? administer God’s grace in its various forms.” Have you
8. What is the difference in how you would treat and ever thought of yourself as an administrator of God’s
relate to a family member? grace? Everything God has given us is for the purpose
9. What does this teach you about how the Body of of showing others His grace. Not just those who
Christ should relate to one another? don’t know Christ, but also to our fellow brothers and
sisters. We should speak the words of God and serve
Group 3 with the strength of God so that our lives glorify Him
Ephesians 4:11-16 and not ourselves. However, we cannot speak His
Read the passage and answer the following questions. words or serve with His strength if we are not abiding
1. What gifts has Christ given some members of the in the Vine and walking in the Spirit.
Body, according to verse 11?’
2. For what purpose, according to verse 12? Hebrews 10:24-25
3. Based on this passage, are the Church leaders “And let us consider how we may spur one another on
supposed to do all of the work? Explain your toward love and good deeds. Let us not give up meeting
answer. together, as some are in the habit of doing, but let us
4. Do you think most believers understand that the encourage one another—and all the more as you see
role of Church leaders is to prepare them to go the Day approaching.”
and serve? Why or why not?
5. How would the Body of Christ be different if all of Provoke Toward Loving God
its members were serving? The word “spur” in this passage means, “To provoke
6. What is the end goal for the Body of Christ or to incite.” We should consider how to provoke one
according to verse 13? What are we living for? another toward loving God and loving others through
7. What will be the result of such unity and faith, good deeds (bearing fruit). This truth paves the way for
according to verse 14? the next statement about continuing to meet together.
8. What are some ways that we can be “tossed back
and forth” as Christians in our culture? How can we provoke one another toward love if we
don’t build relationships with one another? The “Day”
Examine verse 16 carefully as you answer these is approaching when Christ will return. The closer
questions. this Day gets, the more hardships believers face. This
9. From Whom does the growth of the Body of is why we must continue to love and encourage one
Christ come? another so that we do not give up.
10. How is the Body held together and supported?
11. How is the Body built up? Who builds it up? Ephesians 4:29-32
12. What is the result, then, if each part doesn’t “do “Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your
its work”? mouths, but only what is helpful for building others
13. What does this teach you about your personal up according to their needs, that it may benefit those
responsibility to the other people in this room? who listen. And do not grieve the Holy Spirit of God,
with whom you were sealed for the day of redemption.
Abiding Through Community Get rid of all bitterness, rage and anger, brawling and
Now let’s look at some cross-references that will slander, along with every form of malice. Be kind and
show us some practical ways that believers are to compassionate to one another, forgiving each other,
abide with one another through community. just as in Christ God forgave you.”

1 Peter 4:10-11 Words That Build Up

“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to This passage is a “punch in the gut” for most of us.
serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its Our words should build one another up in Christ, not

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tear each other down. We should speak not based on but to “keep” the bond of unity and peace that God’s
what we want to say, but based on the needs of the Spirit has established among all Christ followers. The
listener. Our words should be beneficial. Gossip and Greek verb translated “keep” in verse 3 is tereo, and it
negative words grieve the Holy Spirit, which tears means: “To attend carefully, take care of, guard.” We
down our unity. The Spirit is what unites us, so if we are to carefully protect the unity and peace that God
grieve Him, it affects unity within the Body. Instead has given us. Paul uses the word “one” seven times in
of grieving the Spirit, the Spirit wants to extend verses 4-5 to describe this unity. We have “one” Body,
compassion, kindness and forgiveness through us to Spirit, hope, Lord, faith, baptism, and Father in all.
others.
Recording the Key Points
John 13:34-35 Have your group turn in their Bibles as you read each
“A new command I (Jesus) give you: Love one another. of the cross-references above aloud. As you read
As I have loved you, so you must love one another. By each verse, discuss it using the commentary above.
this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you You may want to make a list on the board of the key
love one another.” points of each verse. Once you have the list, lead the
group in a discussion using the following application
Love As Christ Loved Us questions.
Jesus commands us to love one another as He 1. What are some ways that our group can
has loved us. His love for us is faithful, patient, “faithfully administer” God’s grace to one
unconditional and sacrificial—and this is how we another?
should love one another. Notice that Jesus says 2. How can we “spur” one another on towards love
that our Christlike love for one another (other and good deeds?
believers) is how all men will know we are His 3. How can we “keep” (carefully guard) the bond of
disciples. Our love will set us apart from the world unity that God has given us?
because only Christ can enable us to love this way. 4. Discuss the balance of loving one another the
When others see this kind of love in our lives, they way Christ has called you to, but still being open
will see Christ. and inviting to new members. How can you be
careful and intentional in both areas?
Ephesians 4:1-5
“As a prisoner for the Lord, then, I urge you to live a life Conclusion
worthy of the calling you have received. Be completely “Small Groups” provide the best opportunity to
humble and gentle; be patient, bearing with one participate in the biblical community that we have
another in love. Make every effort to keep the unity of seen described in God’s Word today. In the North
the Spirit through the bond of peace. There is one body American “church” culture of multi-million dollar
and one Spirit—just as you were called to one hope buildings and services with thousands of people, we
when you were called—one Lord, one faith, one baptism; have the responsibility to carefully protect the unity
one God and Father of all, who is over all and through we have in Jesus Christ. We have a responsibility to
all and in all.” one another, and to the lost world that is watching
how we treat one another.
Worthy of the Calling
Paul is writing this letter from prison, urging his A Small Group provides the opportunity to encourage
brothers to live a life “worthy of the calling” they and love one another in a deep, meaningful way.
have received. He goes on to describe how such a life Jesus modeled this type of community for us with
should be lived. What kind of fruit will this branch His twelve disciples. Their unity of heart and
bear? It will bear the fruit of humility, gentleness purpose became the foundation of the Body of Christ
and patience towards one another. Here, again, we throughout the world. In His last night with the
see how we should treat other believers. Paul says disciples, Jesus emphasized the importance of loving
to make “every effort” to remain unified. Notice that and serving one another. Not only for each other, but
verse 3 doesn’t say to “become” unified. God has for the sake of a lost world that needed to see what
already united all believers by sealing us with His God’s love looks like in action.
Spirit.
Will you make an ongoing commitment as a Small
Not “Create” But “Keep” Group to abide in Christ together so that you, too, can
Our job isn’t to create unity by superficial means, make disciples of all nations?

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Afterword if this group hasn’t worked for them, there are other
As you conclude this spiritual journey, consider where groups they can try to find the best fit. It is far more
God may lead you next. Spending time in His Word, important to be engaged in the community of faith
studying, learning and applying what you have read, that is the church, than necessarily being in one
and doing it in community with others, is the best specific group.
way to grow in your faith and grow in your likeness
to Jesus. Invite everyone in your group to continue End by praying for one another that each of you will
the journey of making disciples of all nations with be faithful to “abide in Christ” for the rest of your
your group. However, let your attendees know that lives.

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 PRAYER JOURNAL
Date
What I’m praying for today
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Prayers God has answered

Date
What I’m praying for today
­




Prayers God has answered

Date
What I’m praying for today
­




Prayers God has answered

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 MORE LEADERSHIP RESOURCES
Hundreds of talks, studies, articles and exclusive resources are available from Leadership
Ministries. For 40 years, our Friday Morning Men’s Fellowship locations have created an
environment for men to be mentored and grow in leadership and faith. Visit leadmin.org to
download resources, watch videos, listen to audio, and connect with other leaders.

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 LEADERSHIP MINISTRIES INC
5901-C Peachtree Dunwoody Road, Suite 35, Atlanta, GA 30328 • 404-255-2613 • leadmin.org