Prince of Peace: Cultivators of Peace
John 15:4-13
4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. 12 “This is my commandment, that you love one another as I have loved you. 13 Greater love has no one than this, that someone lay down his life for his friends.
Questions for Reflection:
- The word “abide” means to stay, remain, or dwell. In the context of this passage, what does Jesus mean when He urges His followers to “abide” in Him?
- What makes it difficult for you to abide in Christ?
- What habits can we cultivate in our personal lives to make it easier for us to abide in Christ?
- What practices can we cultivate in our families and friend groups to make it easier for others to abide in Christ?
