Thread: John 15:1-17

Originally Posted by cih1355

John 15:2 teaches that the Father takes away every branch in Christ that does not bear fruit. If these branches are not real Christians, why are they described as being in Christ?

What does it mean to abide in Christ? Does abiding in Christ come in degrees?

It is my understanding that the translation of "taking away" the branches that don't bear fruit can be better translated that He "lifts up" the branches that don't bear fruit. So that the passage would be saying that those who are bearing fruit get pruned/cleansed, while those not bearing fruit are lifted up and restored so that they may bear fruit.

It is interesting that this is the method that a vinedresser would use to encourage a fruitful vine, he would raise it up.