Get Connected Bear Fruits Series

One major truth about this age is that if you are not connected you will be isolated. William James says, “We are like islands in the sea, separate on the surface but connected in the deep.” The topic for today’s sermon is derived from a command given to us by Jesus Christ in the Gospel according to John chapter 15 verse 4 which says, “Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.”

The Greek word ‘meno’ according to the New American Standard New Testament Greek Lexicon is a verb meaning remain, abide or stay with... In Matthew 10:11, Jesus tells His disciples "And whatever city or village you enter, inquire who is worthy in it, and stay at his house until you leave that city.” It means connect perpetually to the source of survival, well being and relevance. In order word, believer is to permanently stay in, abide and connect to Christ Jesus in their daily relationship. You must keep deriving inspiration from Jesus Christ for whatever you do or say.

3 Reasons for Connection

1. It is the essence of our creation. You are an extension of God’s kingdom. He created us in His image and breathed a breath of live into us. Gen. 1: 26-28. Before Jesus ascended to heaven, he breathed on the disciples too. And when He had said this, He breathed on them, and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. John 20:22. For you to belong and remain in the body of Christ you must get connected. Colossians 2:19; Romans 12:5; Ephesians 4:16; Colossians 1:17

2. For sustainability you must get connected. A branch can only derive IT’S livelihood from the tree. The branches that are taken away were never properly abiding in the vine. When a branch is removed from the tree, it can be thrown around and dragged into the fire or dumped in the refuse bin. Psalm 121:1, 2

3. For productivity or fruitfulness a branch must get connected. Jesus mentioned the word ‘fruit’ in the chapter 7 times. In order word, you are in Christ if only you are productive. You are a Christian if only your life keeps reflecting Jesus character and virtues. He desires and commands us to produce abiding fruits.

Conclusion

You are not special because of the dresses or cosmetics you put on. Your religiosity cannot make you special unless you are genuinely and consistently connected to Jesus Christ. You must be chosen and established by Jesus to be connected and fruitful. Submit your whole life to Him and you will never remain the same in Jesus name.

Reference

Thayer and Smith. "Greek Lexicon entry for Meno". "The NAS New Testament Greek Lexicon". . 1999. https://www.biblestudytools.com/lexicons/greek/nas/meno.html