The analogy given by Jesus on the vine and branches carries such deep messages in it (Just like the other analogies). Allow me to dive in this one a little further. For anyone who has grown any kind of plant that is composed of the main vine and then runner branches, it is easy to relate to the imagery here. Truly, speaking, once a branch is cut off the main vine, it withers and dries up…no exception. In addition, once a branch is broken or cut of, so dies any fruit on that branch.
As a farmer, tending the vines includes pruning and trimming off extra vegetation to promote better fruit growth and size of the fruit. Most vines are hardy and will grow excessively given the right environment. consequently, one has to be diligent enough to control the vines and their branches to achieve maximum fruit growth and size.
Now, let turn this to God and Christians’. As a Christian, or follower of Jesus, one has to remain attached to the Living Water and Bread to grow and bear any kind of good fruit. This may sound simple, but God has given to us ‘free will’. It is this free will that leaves us with a very important decision on the direction of our lives. We have a choice to remain attached to the Source (God) or like the prodigal son, ask God to give us what we think we are entitled too and then go squander it away doing evil and bearing bad fruit (At least we know God is merciful and does not desire the death of a sinner – one is always welcome back!)
Those that choose to remain attached to the Vine (God) go on to bear much fruit (Fruits of the Holy Spirit) and even do greater works strengthened by the Holy Spirit. Not only that, God, prunes these branches (by facing trials and tribulations) so than they bear maximum rewards and good works. Just like iron is tested by fire, a Christian is tested by temptations. The choice is primarily the will of the Christian. That statement alone should send a chill of fear down the spine…but Christ says, fear not for I am with you always.
The analogy of the Vine and Branches includes another key statement that unless a Christian in attached to the God, one can do nothing. O how true this is! I mean one can still do something, but it amounts to nothing. Unless, God builds, one builds in vain. The elements of nature buffets such works and wash them away. Needless to add, what does it befit one to win the whole world and lose one’s soul? The choice is clear…or so I think. Remain attached to the Vine (God) and you will bear much fruit. Amen.