As we read the Bible we need a proper context of each story. We may read one verse and get a different understanding if we did not consider the context of the verse. For instance, Jesus said, “I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. 2Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit.” (John 15:1-2).
Many people get very nervous about this verse. The whole goal of this passage is so that we bear more fruit and glorify God. If you want a plant to grow, you don’t cut it completely off, but you water it. Remember vines are not like trees. Trees have big trunks and branches, but vines are virtually all branches.
What does it mean when it says that God, “takes away” every branch that doesn’t bear fruit? Some would say this means that God would expose more sin in our lives, discipline us, or cause us to become sick so that we would repent. But what does the Bible say? The Greek word for, “takes away” is, “airó.” This word literally means, “To lift up.” This word was also used in the gospels. Four friends wanted their friend to be healed by Christ, so they lifted up (airó) their disabled friend and lowered him through a hole in the roof.
Vines don’t grow on the ground. Rather vines are always placed high, typically on a fence. This causes the vine to be away from the dirt and grow. When a vine drops to the ground, it needs to be lifted up from the dirt, cleaned, and placed up higher. This is what God does for us. He cleans us and lifts us up.
My friend if you feel that you are away from God and not bearing fruit your loving father is there to lift you up. He is never against you. He is always for you!
Courage With Grace Ministries 