The Connection That Gives Life

Connections in this world are

They give resources, opportunities, and belonging, but only temporarily.

1. Israel’s Vine that (Psalm 80)
   • Israel had but no
   • Israel as the vine shows that their religious identity is . People need a deeper connection to God’s .
2. When Israel failed, Jesus declared, “I am the True Vine” (John 15:1-5)
   • Life and Fruitfulness flow only by in Him.
   • Disconnected Branches and die.

In Christ, we are not just “connected”, we His life!

1. Connected Branches are Pruned to make fruitfulness stronger (John 15:2)
   • Pruning feels like , but its really !

The “Fruit” is not just good deeds, its a changed life!

1. The Love of Christ binds us to the branch (John 15:9-11)
   • Our connection is a bond sealed in . He calls us and laid down His life for us!

The Secret to unshakeable Joy is this with Jesus!

1. Are you plugged in?
   • Are your connections rooted in temporary things or in the eternal Christ?
   • Do you resist pruning, or do you see it as God’s work for your own good?
   • Are you living as a cold servant to rules, or a friend of Christ abiding in love?

Life, Fruit, Joy come only by abiding in Christ!