November 15 John 15-17 Living on the Vine

John 13-17 is sacred ground in the sacred Bible. When we read this section of Scripture, we should want to take off our shoes as we are in truly sacred territory between Jesus and His closest disciples. We see the tenderness between God and His people - and the harsh realities of kingdom living here on earth. 

Jesus said that those who hate Him, hate God the Father Himself. Those who reject Jesus, reject the One true and living God of the Bible. Those that reject Jesus as the God-man, bristle at this truth - yet it is still truth no matter how mad it makes someone.

In this world, we must stay on the vine to bear kingdom fruit. Jesus says that no connection means no fruit. I take this to mean a personal connection to God and to God's people (church). 

Jesus also makes it clear that a strong connection the God of the Bible and His people will make unbelievers hate us. That's bad news for people pleasers.

We all have a fundamental decision in our life - to be recommitted to everyday - to live to produce fruit for the kingdom - to please God - OR - live to please others - to live fruitless lives.