Anchor Verses:
John 15:4–10, Matthew 22:37, 1 John 2:24
Focus Statement:
When we try to produce spiritual fruit through effort, we repeat Israel’s pattern of rebellion and legalism. But Jesus invites us to stop striving and start abiding — allowing the Holy Spirit to bear fruit in and through us as evidence of true discipleship.
Introduction – The Story of Striving
- Israel’s pattern: rebellion → exile → legalism → Jesus calls them to abide.
- John 15:4 — “Abide in me, and I in you.”
- We’re not called to produce fruit by effort but to stay connected to the Source.
Manufactured vs. Spiritual Fruit
- John 15:8 — “By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit…”
- Fruit is proof of discipleship, not the price of it.
- We either manufacture fruit or cling to Jesus and let the Spirit work.
- True obedience flows from love (Matthew 22:37).
- Stay connected—He is the Vine; we are the branches.
When Relationship Becomes Rules
- 1 John 2:24 — “Let what you heard from the beginning abide in you.”
- Israel replaced relationship with rules; we often do the same.
- Pharisees had 613 laws + 1,500 Sabbath rules — we make our own lists too.
- But God wants mercy, not sacrifice (Matthew 9:13).
- Let the Spirit cultivate love, joy, and peace within you—not just good behavior.
Remain in Relationship
- 2 Timothy 2:15 — “Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved…”
- Abiding is daily — faithfulness over time.
- 1 Corinthians 9:24–27 — Run with purpose, stay disciplined.
- Abiding means we continue through pruning, waiting, and struggle.
- Keep your eyes on Jesus—“eye on your own paper.”
Walking it Out – Abide Beyond Sunday
- Identify where you’ve been doing for God instead of dwelling with Him.
- Cling to Jesus in prayer.
- Cultivate fruit by yielding to the Spirit.
- Continue walking with Him daily—presence over performance.
