Healthy Endings Lead to Healthy Fruit (John 15)

OBSERVATION Questions (What does the text say?)

Read John 1:1-8. Have several people talk about their favorite verse in this passage.

According to verse 1, who is the “true vine,” and who is the “vinedresser”?

What are the two different outcomes for branches mentioned in verse 2?

What happens to branches that do not abide in the vine (v. 6)?

What promises are made to those who abide (vv. 5, 7)?

What is the stated purpose of bearing much fruit (v. 8)?

INTERPRETATION Questions (What does it mean?)

What does it mean to “abide” in Christ? How is this different from just believing in Him?

Why would God prune even fruitful branches? What does that tell us about His character and goals?

What kind of “fruit” is Jesus talking about here—what are some examples of fruit we might bear in our lives?

Why is being disconnected from the vine so serious in this passage?

APPLICATION Questions (How does this apply to my life?)

When have you experienced a season of pruning that later led to growth or fruitfulness?

What’s an area in your life right now where you might be resisting God’s pruning?

What helps you stay connected (abiding) in Christ during painful or unclear seasons?

What is some “fruit” you would like to see God grow in your life right now?

What’s one practical step you can take this week to abide more deeply in Christ?