Podcasts about vinedresser

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This is another awesome example of scripture that testifies of Yeshua HaMashiach, Jesus the Messiah, Jesus the Christ.  We will study the event of the Golden Calf and God will teach us in His TORAH, His instructions, that He had a plan for Israel.  He had an awesome purpose for His treasured possession (Exod. 19:5)  It all relates to John 3:16 and the love the Lord has for all, the whole world.  But, the Hebrews failed and chose another god, a god of gold, a bull calf.  They didn't give up on the one true God, they just disobeyed Him in making an animal to represent the one God, the only God, יהוה Yahvay (I pronounce His name Yahvay and not Yahway since  Hebrew has no W sound so it is an error to say Yahway for His name).  Yahvay put this in His Ten Statements, His Ten Commandments, that we are not to make an image to represent the Lord.  The Hebrews  did.  And they did not follow His commands and went their own way. Once again, I brought up the likelihood that the Hebrews had assimilated into the Egyptian culture.  The Hebrews cried out in Exod. 2:23.  But, it is more than cried out.  The Hebrew word is za'aka זעק H2199 which is shriek or scream in deep anguish or terror.  On top of that the Hebrews cried out to no one!  In Exod. 2:23 they cried out - to who?  God heard them but they did not cry out, shriek in deep pain, to the Lord.  Later, at the sea before they crossed over, one they were reintroduced to the God of Abraham, we read in Exod. 14:10 that Israel cried out TO THE LORD.  We miss that.  We think they cried out to the Lord in Exod. 2:23.  That is putting words in the Bible that aren't there.  They didn't know the God of their fathers anymore.  What happened?  What's going on?  The answer - they had assimilated into the Egyptian culture.  The Bible proves it yet we missed it.  All they knew were the gods of Egypt.  It is easy to get Israel out of Egypt but it is nigh impossible to get Egypt out of Israel.   The Hebrews after hundreds of years were deeply imbedded into the Egyptian culture and ways.  Here's the link to study that the Hebrews assimilated into Egypt – https://halakhaoftheday.org/2023/03/29/from-propsperty-to-assimilationn/ Here' a link to lesson 4 part 2 in this series where we study this idea.  It is seemingly proven from the very word of God.  Here's the link - https://youtu.be/9tY5N0mAJ2I?si=BQ2ID2W8eVXZT1xb I did an “AI” search (artificial intelligence) of the Apis Bull in ancient Egypt.  I came up with the following.  I know a lot about the Apis Bull from my days traveling and doing research in Egypt plus my own personal study.  The “AI” material is right on.  So here it is in its entirety.  I do this just in case you want to expand your study to learn more about the Apis Bull and ancient Egypt. AI SEARCH ON THE APIS BULL – MAY 2026 The Apis bull was a sacred animal in ancient Egypt, serving as a living manifestation of the god Ptah and, during its life, a powerful symbol of the pharaoh's vitality, strength, and divine right to rule. As a direct connection between the gods and the kingdom, the Apis bull reinforced the legitimacy of the monarch and was frequently referred to as the "strong bull" in royal inscriptions. [1, 2, 3, 4] Connection to the Pharaoh Symbol of Power: The Apis bull directly symbolized the fertility, power, and vitality of the pharaoh. "Strong Bull" Titles: Pharaohs often used titles such as "Strong Bull of His Mother" to equate themselves with the sacred animal. Ritual Union: During the Sed festival (rejuvenation ceremony), the pharaoh participated in rituals with the bull to absorb its divine power, often described as running or walking with the Apis. Divine Manifestation: The bull was considered an earthly avatar of Ptah (creator god) and, upon death, united with Osiris to become Osiris-Apis. [1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7] Worship and Life Selection: Priests selected the bull based on strict, specific markings, including a black coat, a white triangle on the forehead, an eagle-shaped mark on the back, and a beetle-shaped mark under the tongue. Royal Treatment: Once selected, the Apis lived in a specialized "House of Apis" in Memphis, treating the bull with the same reverence and luxury as a pharaoh. Afterlife: When the Apis died, it was mummified and buried with immense fanfare in a dedicated cemetery known as the Serapeum at Saqqara. [2, 8, 9, 10] [1] https://www.ancientegyptblog.com/?p=3313 [2] https://www.facebook.com/Egypt.Culture/posts/the-sacred-bull-apis-was-one-of-the-greatest-religious-symbols-in-ancient-egypt-/930050865826543/ [3] https://www.magellantv.com/articles/by-the-horns-of-apis-ancient-egypts-noble-bullgod [4] https://egyptatours.com/what-is-apis-bull/ [5] https://australian.museum/learn/cultures/international-collection/ancient-egyptian/bull-apis-e39829/ [6] https://templeofathena.blog/2016/08/18/god-of-the-month-club-apis-the-living-bull-god-of-egypt/ [7] https://www.livius.org/articles/religion/apis/ [8] https://www.facebook.com/Tresuresofancientegypt/posts/a-sacred-bull-apis-egypt-with-ahmed-graeco-roman-museum-of-alexandria/833234285657958/ [9] https://egypt-museum.com/cows-bulls-in-ancient-egypt/ [10] https://x.com/archeohistories/status/1939677557500293212 In this lesson the Bible supports the idea that Aaron was complicit in the event of the Golden Bull Calf.  Orthodix Jewish Rabbis, however, stick up for Aaron and try to argue he is totally innocent with regards to the Golden Bull Calf incident.  Their views are merely opinion not based upon God's word and in fact are dismissive of the word when it says that Aaron is guilty and the Lord will destroy him along with all Israel.  Their views are totally unacceptable and in great error. Aaron may not have participated in the worship of the Golden Bull Calf, but he made the molten image and thus got all Israel to sin grievously against the Lord.  That Aaron was found guilty is clear in the very words of God Himself and God wanted to destroy all Israel and AARON!!  "The LORD spoke further to me, saying, 'I have seen this people, and indeed, it is a stubborn people. 'Let Me alone, that I may destroy them and blot out their name from under heaven; and I will make of you a nation mightier and greater than they.' "(Deu 9:13-14) "The LORD was angry enough with Aaron to destroy him; so I also prayed for Aaron at the same time."  (Deu 9:20) Here's some links that will add to your study with regards to Aaron's guilt in this terrible event of the Golden Bull Calf. ARTICLE ON AARON'S GUILT FROM CHABAD – AN ORTHODIX JEWISH SITE - https://www.chabad.org/parshah/article_cdo/aid/860977/jewish/Why-Did-Aaron-Make-the-Golden-Calf.htm ARTICLE ON AARON'S GUILT FROM www.GotQuestions.org - https://www.gotquestions.org/Aaron-golden-calf.html In this lesson we hear God say, "They have quickly turned aside from the way which I commanded them ..." (Exo 32:8) What is God's WAY that He wanted the Hebrews to follow?  The Hebrew word for the word WAY is derekh (דֶּרֶךְ).  It is the word used in Genesis 3 when the Lord shows the WAY back to the Garden was closed and guarded by two mighty Khrooveem (not cherubs).  The WAY to the Father was blocked.  Now in Exodus 32 God talks about His WAY, His derekh (דֶּרֶךְ) He wants the Hebrews to follow.  Later, the Lord comes to us and He says in John 14 that, "I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father but through Me." (Joh 14:6)  So, what might he Lord be getting at?  What is the lesson?   I suggest it seems to be summed up in the first verses of Psalm 119. How blessed are those whose way is blameless, Who walk in the law of the LORD. How blessed are those who observe His testimonies, Who seek Him with all their heart. They also do no unrighteousness; They walk in His ways. You have ordained Your precepts, That we should keep them diligently. Oh that my ways may be established To keep Your statutes!   (Psa 119:1-6) In TORAH the Lord gives us His intruction to live as His people, His chosen ones.  We are to liv in such a way that our lives show we are lovng the Lord God and serving Him by living as per His word, the Written Word.  But then He came to us.  Yeshua.  He is the Living Word.  In John 14 we read that Yeshua says if we are His true disciples He is in us and we in Him.  We abide together.  And as true branches of the "true vine" that is Yeshua we are to be fruitful so that our work in Yeshua keeps until the final harvest of the Vinedresser, the Father, and show ourselves to be His disciples.  We live to be His People of THE WAY,  derekh (דֶּרֶךְ). Rev. Ferret - who is this guy?  (Ferret - somewhere on the Jordan River in northern Galilee) What's his background?  Why should I listen to him?  Check his background at this link - https://www.dropbox.com/s/ortnret3oxcicu4/BackgrndTeacher%20mar%2025%202020.pdf?dl=0  

John 15:6 If anyone does not abide in Me, he is thrown away as a branch and dries up; and they gather them, and cast them into the fire and they are burned. What would you think about a vinedresser that left dead branches on the vine or when removed left an unsightly pile of dried up branches in his vineyard? Would you consider him lazy or sloppy? You certainly wouldn't think well of him. Would you not consider it to his credit and praise that he remove them and take them to a burn pile? What else does he do with dead, dried up branches? Why did Jesus think it was important to give this information to His disciples? It's because the Father gave it to Him to give to them because that information is for their highest good. It also is what a responsible vinedresser does, and certainly they knew it. It is highly possible, knowing Jesus, that such a burn pile was in sight. According to Jonathan Edwards, God glorifies Himself even in the destruction of the wicked who do not bear fruit. It is reasonable and it is the branch's purpose to bear fruit, the fruit of His love. In fruit-bearing both the Father and the Son are glorified. However, a dead, dried up branch brings no glory to the Son, the vine. So there is only one reasonable and expected way that remains for the Father, the vinedresser, to receive glory as far as they are concerned, and that is in the destruction of those who fall short of the glory of God (Rom. 3:23). The destruction of the wicked in hell is neither unjust nor unloving. Contrary to popular opinion, it is what love for the Vine and the vineyard looks like. For God, The Vinedresser, to not have a burn pile would be to fall short of the glory of God. Let us bear fruit today by living to love with Jesus. Acknowledgment: Music from “Carried by the Father” by Eric Terlizzi. www.ericterlizzi.com

Jesus is the Vine, the Father is the Vinedresser, we are the branches. Abide in Christ, ask in Jesus' Name and love as He's loved us.

In John 15:1–2, Jesus reveals the heart of the Father as the Vinedresser who is actively at work in our lives. His goal is simple: that we would bear fruit. And He accomplishes that in two ways—He lifts us when we're weak and not producing, and He prunes us when we are growing so we can bear even more fruit. What often feels like loss or hardship may actually be God's loving care, shaping us and drawing us deeper into dependence on Jesus. This message reframes both struggle and growth through the lens of God's goodness, reminding us that as we remain connected to Christ, we can trust the Father to do whatever is necessary to produce a life marked by love, joy, peace, and true spiritual fruit.

In John 15:1–2, Jesus reveals the heart of the Father as the Vinedresser who is actively at work in our lives. His goal is simple: that we would bear fruit. And He accomplishes that in two ways—He lifts us when we're weak and not producing, and He prunes us when we are growing so we can bear even more fruit. What often feels like loss or hardship may actually be God's loving care, shaping us and drawing us deeper into dependence on Jesus. This message reframes both struggle and growth through the lens of God's goodness, reminding us that as we remain connected to Christ, we can trust the Father to do whatever is necessary to produce a life marked by love, joy, peace, and true spiritual fruit.

John 15:1-8  -  Richard White 

What does it mean for God to prune the people He loves, and how do you respond when spiritual growth feels uncomfortable? In John 15, Jesus describes the Father as the vinedresser, actively tending the branches so they can bear more fruit, but that process is often deeper and more personal than we expect.In this episode of Kitchen Table Theology, Jeff and Tiffany continue their conversation on Jesus' teaching about the vine and the branches by focusing on the Father's role as the vinedresser. They unpack what pruning really means, how God uses both His Word and loving discipline to shape believers, and why fruitfulness matters so much in the Christian life. This episode offers a practical and encouraging look at abiding in Christ, submitting to God's work, and growing in Christlikeness through every season.What We Discussed03:00 Who the Vinedresser Is in John 15Jeff and Tiffany explain that in Jesus' vine-and-branches teaching, God the Father is the vinedresser, the one who tends, cultivates, and prunes the branches so they can bear more fruit.05:00 Why Pruning Is Part of the Christian LifePruning is not proof that something is wrong. Jesus teaches that even fruitful branches are pruned so they can become even more fruitful.06:00 The First Way God Prunes Us: Through His WordThe gentler form of pruning happens through Scripture. As believers read and obey God's Word, He exposes attitudes, habits, and patterns that need to be removed.10:00 The Second Way God Prunes Us: Through Loving DisciplineWhen God's Word is ignored, the Father may use correction and discipline to bring His children back. This is not rejection, but loving intervention.12:00 What Jesus Means by Branches Being Cut OffJeff addresses the serious warning in John 15 and explains that this passage is not about losing salvation, but about the seriousness of refusing to abide in Christ and bear fruit.15:00 What Spiritual Fruit Really IsThe fruit God wants is not mere productivity or religious activity. It is Christlikeness, the life of Jesus being expressed in the believer through love, humility, obedience, and righteousness.16:00 Abiding in Christ Is the Source of FruitfulnessJesus makes it clear that fruit does not come from trying harder. It comes from remaining connected to Him, depending on Him, and drawing life from Him daily.18:00 God's Goal Is Fruitfulness, Not ComfortJeff and Tiffany remind listeners that the Father's pruning may feel weighty, but it is never hopeless. God is a good gardener, and His purpose is to make His people more like Christ.“His goal is not our comfort. His goal is our fruitfulness.” - Pastor Jeff Cranston

In this episode, Peter teaches from John 15 on the fullness of joy that we should feel when we hear Jesus give these words: "I am the Vine and you are the branches." It's a joy that fills every low place in our lives and teaches us to enjoy the pruning from our Vinedresser. Wherever you're listening from today, we implore you to consider the Covenant God made with you and abide by it. Join us in Dallas on April 24th for Gospel Night! Visit our site to RSVP. Send us Fan MailSupport the show

The Scripture readings for tonight's service are Psalm 92:12-15; Isaiah 5:1-7; Galatians 5:16-26; and John 15:1-8. Jesus is the True Vine; His Father is the Vinedresser; we are the branches. Being pruned hurts, but every cut is purposeful, and Christ feels it with us. Abide in Him and bear fruit that lasts.

If you have ever felt "in the mud" or feared that your lack of fruit would lead to being cut off, this message reveals the true heart of the Father as the Vinedresser who reaches down to lift you up. By exploring the original Greek context of John 15, we discover that our relationship with Jesus isn't about the pressure of "trying harder," but about resting in a ONE-ness that transforms us from servants into appointed Friends and Ambassadors. Watch to learn how the "fresh sap" of God's word can wash you clean, align your heart with His, and empower you to bear the “much fruit” you were created for.

Series - ABIDE: Growing a Life That Bears Fruit - Pastor Russ Atter

We are inescapably spiritual beings. Just as we draw in physical life from food and drink, we draw sustenance from Christ. In this message from John 15, Pastor Philip Miller explores Jesus' vivid metaphor from the Vine to the Vinedresser, the Branches, the Fruit, and the Sap. When we try to find life in anything else, it never really satisfies. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.  Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Moody Church Hour," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives.  Dr. Philip Miller is the 17th Senior Pastor of The Moody Church. He is the featured speaker on "Living Hope" and "Moody Church Hour," with programs broadcasting on 700 outlets in the U.S. He and his wife Krista live in Chicago with their four children. Pastor Philip is passionate about proclaiming God's Word, cultivating healthy ministry, and investing in future leaders.  SUPPORT:  Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/  Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/    SUBSCRIBE:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia  Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/ 

We are inescapably spiritual beings. Just as we draw in physical life from food and drink, we draw sustenance from Christ. In this message from John 15, Pastor Philip Miller explores Jesus' vivid metaphor from the Vine to the Vinedresser, the Branches, the Fruit, and the Sap. When we try to find life in anything else, it never really satisfies. This month's special offer is available for a donation of any amount. Get yours at https://moodyoffer.com or call us at 1-800-215-5001.  Moody Church Media [https://www.moodymedia.org/], home of "Moody Church Hour," exists to bring glory to God through the transformation of lives.  Dr. Philip Miller is the 17th Senior Pastor of The Moody Church. He is the featured speaker on "Living Hope" and "Moody Church Hour," with programs broadcasting on 700 outlets in the U.S. He and his wife Krista live in Chicago with their four children. Pastor Philip is passionate about proclaiming God's Word, cultivating healthy ministry, and investing in future leaders.  SUPPORT:  Tax Deductible Support: https://www.moodymedia.org/donate/  Become an Endurance Partner: https://endurancepartners.org/    SUBSCRIBE:   YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@MoodyChurchMedia  Daily Devotional and Weekly Digest: https://www.moodymedia.org/newsletters/subscription/

We are inescapably spiritual beings. Just as we draw in physical life from food and drink, we draw sustenance from Christ. In this message from John 15, Pastor Philip Miller explores Jesus' vivid metaphor from the Vine to the Vinedresser, the Branches, the Fruit, and the Sap. When we try to find life in anything else, it never really satisfies. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29?v=20251111

We are inescapably spiritual beings. Just as we draw in physical life from food and drink, we draw sustenance from Christ. In this message from John 15, Pastor Philip Miller explores Jesus' vivid metaphor from the Vine to the Vinedresser, the Branches, the Fruit, and the Sap. When we try to find life in anything else, it never really satisfies. To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/173/29?v=20251111

John 15:1-11 & Hebrews 12

As branches in The Vine of Christ we must not only understand that we are to abide in Him and bear fruit but we must submit to the work of God the Father who is The Vinedresser in order to truly be fruitful for His Kingdom...or be cast away. Share. Make it a great day in the Love & Lordship of Christ (Mark 12:29-31)!

Series: Signs & GloryTitle: How do I live as a disciple of Jesus today?Subtitle: Part 1Scripture: John 15:1-6 NIV, Isaiah 5, Psalm 80Bottom Line: A disciple of Jesus today is growing to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same.INTRODUCTIONCONTEXTSERMON OUTLINECONCLUSIONNOTESQUESTIONS TO CONSIDER DISCUSSION QUESTIONSMAIN REFERENCES USEDOpening prayer: Lord God, help us grow to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him and leading others to do the same. INTRODUCTION"(Jesus said from the cross), 'Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.' That young man—I forgive him. I forgive him, because it is what Christ did, and it is what Charlie would do." Erika KirkCf. Members of Mother Emmanuel AME Church in Charleston forgave the murderer of their family members (Dylan Roof). (2015)Cf. Tim Allen forgiving his father after hearing Erika Kirk forgiving the young man who assassinated her husband Charlie.Jesus loved and forgave his enemies as they were executing him.What does a disciple of Jesus look like today? Well, these examples are a good place to start. They loved their enemies and forgave them.Bottom Line: A disciple of Jesus today is growing to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same.Draw the matrix showing that high or Christlike character and high competency results in spiritual fruitfulness forever.CONTEXTJesus's disciples are deeply troubled because they have just heard 3 things:One of them will betray Jesus,Jesus is about to leave them and go where they cannot go, and Peter will deny Jesus 3 times that night.He's taught them again to love each other as he has loved themHe's told them his spirit will come and empower them to do all that he's taught them to doHe's coming back (resurrected, as his spirit, second coming)They leave the upper room where they've had their feet washed, heard all of this, and now they're heading to the garden of gethsamene to pray and be arrested.OUTLINE (w/ help from Matt Carter & ChatGPT)Bottom Line: A disciple of Jesus today is growing to be and do like Jesus, while abiding in him, and leading others to do the same.Transition: This passage breaks down into 2 sections: 1) True disciples bear fruit, and 2) What that fruit looks like. We'll follow that with how we bear this spiritual fruit that lasts.I. True Disciples of Jesus Today Bear Spiritual Fruit that will last. (15:-1-6)7th of 7 "I am" statementsI am the bread of lifeI am the light of the worldI am the gateI am the good shepherdI am the resurrection and the lifeI am the way, the truth and the lifeI am the true vineNot "a" but "the""True vine" implies that there are "false vines"While the vineyard was a picture of Israel (Isaiah 5, Psalm 80), Jesus says it's a false vine because they produced "sour, inedible grapes". Jesus is the True Vine.Jesus is also the true Israel or God and man in fellowship through Jesus Christ. -JohnstonFruitfulness = Living to our God-given potential out of the overflow of our relationship with Jesus.God calls Adam and Eve to be fruitful and multiply. (Genesis 1:28) "The fruitfulness that was lost thorugh the Fall, is recovered through Christ and his redemption." -Johnston"The recovery of true fruitfulness in life is bound up in the recovery of fellowship with God through Jesus Christ." -JohnstonJesus connects fruitfulness to fellowship. We are Grace Christian FELLOWSHIP. That is we are a people connected in fellowship to one another through our fellowship with Jesus Christ. The Point: "The path to God doesn't go through the nation of Israel; it goes through Jesus." -CarterIt's about union with Jesus. (Connection to the true vine)Jesus is the True Vine, Father is the Vinedresser, we are the branches.2 types of disciples:Living and (alive in Christ)Dead (never exercised saving faith; Ex. Judas Iscariot); "They hang around Jesus without a genuine, life-giving relationship with him." False disciples will be cut off and burned in judgment.If you are alive in Christ, God will do his part to insure you are fruitful--pruning is key:Dead woodGood wood that will decrease fruitfulness if not removedGod's commitment to your fruit-bearing > Your commitment to comfort"God will do whatever it takes for you to bear fruit. John Newton, the great eighteenth-century English pastor and songwriter, began a letter this way:'At length, and without further apology for my silence, I sit down to ask you how you fare. Afflictions I hear have been your lot; and if I had not heard so, I should have taken it for granted: for I believe the Lord loves you, and as many as He loves He chastens.I think you can say, afflictions have been good for you, and I doubt not but you have found strength according to your day; so that, though you may have been sharply tried, you have not been overpowered.'" -Newton, Amazing Works, 156-57True disciples abide or remain connected to Jesus. Ex. Like a branch drawing life-giving sap from the vine is essential to life and fruit-bearing.“Here Jesus introduced that rich word abide, which has to do with remaining close to Him. Jesus declared that our productivity, our fruitfulness, is directly linked to our abiding in Him. As Christians, we will bear fruit, but it will vary in degree. The closer we stay to Christ, the more fruit we will bear. The more we wander out from the center and neglect the means of grace that He has given to us, the less fruit we will produce” -RC Sproul"People who claim to be Christians but do not show evidence of his life flowing through them will be cut off, gathered up nd burned." V. 6"A fruitless disciple is not a disciple at all."- CarterHow does God cause us to bear spiritual fruit? Through his word.II. Spiritual Fruit in a Disciple of Jesus today looks like this: (15:7-17)A. Answered prayer--this happens because of the union with Jesus. The "sap" is the back and forth communication. "My words remain in you" (7)Jesus speaks through his word. God prunes and cleans through his word (3).We respond in prayer. Where there is prayer, there are answers. God listens to his people. It looks like breathing. "When the Holy Spirit is pulsing through you, you pray without thinking. You just talk to God." -CarterPrayer is as important to the soul as breathing to the body.B. Obedient love--we obey because we love. Our love flows from our obedience. Obedience is the evidence of love.A persistently, willfully, disobedient person is not a Christian.What's cool here is that even though Jesus is our King and has every right to demand our obedience, he doesn't treat us like slaves. He sees us as friends. Slaves are given commands without explanation. Jesus invites us into his inner circle. He shares his friendship and explains what he's doing. Not always as much as we'd like but he tells us what the Father says to him. (14-15)C. Inexhaustible joy--Jesus, who fills our Dixie cup/cone cup with joy, immerses our Dixie cup of joy into his ocean of joy.Happiness is dependent on your circumstances. Joy transcends your circumstances.ExamplesPaul in Prison (Philippians 1:12–21; 4:4)Happiness: No one would be happy about being chained up, falsely accused, and awaiting trial. His circumstances were bleak.Joy: Paul still wrote, “Rejoice in the Lord always; again I will say, rejoice” (Phil. 4:4). His joy was rooted in Christ being proclaimed and in knowing that “to live is Christ, and to die is gain.” His joy transcended his imprisonment.The Apostles Beaten (Acts 5:40–42)Happiness: After being flogged by the Sanhedrin, they weren't happy about the pain or humiliation.Joy: They “rejoiced that they were counted worthy to suffer dishonor for the name.” Joy came from sharing in Christ's sufferings and being faithful witnesses.Jesus on the Cross (Hebrews 12:2)Happiness: The cross was excruciating, shameful, and horrific—nothing about it was happy.Joy: Yet Hebrews says Jesus endured it “for the joy set before him”—the joy of redeeming us, glorifying the Father, and sitting down at His right hand.Job LossHappiness: Losing your job doesn't make you happy. The stress, loss of income, and uncertainty feel heavy.Joy: A believer can still have joy by trusting God's provision, remembering His past faithfulness, and resting in His promises. Joy looks like saying, “This is hard, but I know God is still with me and will provide,” even while updating your résumé.It's no coincidence that Jesus follows, "If you keep my commands, you will remain in my love" (10) with, "I have told you this so that my joy may be in your and that your joy may be complete." (11) "Joy comes through obedience." -Carter

For many of us, faith has been shaped by pressure to perform and produce. But in John 15, Jesus gives us another way: abiding in the True Vine. In this episode, Gem Fadling sits down with artist and author Bette Dickinson to explore how God as the loving Vinedresser leads us not toward exhaustion, but toward flourishing. If you’ve felt weighed down by striving or longed for a slower, more organic spirituality, this conversation will help you rediscover a rooted, fruitful faith. In This Episode, You’ll Learn: Why God’s primary concern isn’t productivity but flourishing The difference between an industrial approach to faith and an organic one How natural seasons reflect Jesus’ life, death, and resurrection The meaning of abiding as our place of belonging and identity in Christ How to trust fruit will emerge over time without forced busyness Resources & References Mentioned: The Art of Vinemaking: Flourishing in a Productivity-Driven Culture Making Room in Advent by Bette Dickinson John 15: The Vine and the Branches About Today’s Guest – Bette DickinsonBette Dickinson is a prophetic artist, author, and contemplative guide. Through her writing, artwork, and teaching, she invites others to encounter God’s presence in embodied and imaginative ways. She is the author of The Art of Vinemaking and Making Room in Advent: 25 Devotions for a Season of Wonder. ______________________________________________________ Connect with Gem on Instagram and learn more on the Unhurried Living website and her new book, Hold That Thought: Sorting Through the Voices in Our Heads Learn about PACE: Certificate in Leadership and Soul Care Discover more Christian podcasts at lifeaudio.com and inquire about advertising opportunities at lifeaudio.com/contact-us.

The Parable of the Vineyard and the Vinedresser - Fr. Mark Hanna by Saint Mary Coptic Orthodox Church, East Brunswick, NJ

THE BLESSING OF ABIDING - John 15:1-11  I. The Vine and The Vinedresser; vs.1-3 II. The Vine and The Branch; vs.4 III. The Fruitless Branch; vs.5-6 IV. The Fruitful Branch; vs.7-8 V. The Chief Fruit; vs.9-11

The teaching Jesus gave to his apostles the night before his crucifixion about him being 'the way, the truth, and the life' was a profound foundation that described the path of every true Christian. Jesus as 'the way' opened up the opportunity for average, sinful individuals to become acceptable to God through the merit of Jesus' sacrifice. He was and is the path we are to follow. As we walk this path, we can recognize Jesus as 'the truth' by accepting that his actions, teachings and example were always a direct reflection of the ultimate and pure truth that comes directly from the Father. Being on the path, following Jesus' example and absorbing the truth of God's words spoken through Jesus, we now can begin to open ourselves to understanding Jesus as 'the life.' At the beginning of John 15, Jesus taught us about how he is 'the life' in a rich metaphor of spiritual vitality. He called himself 'the true vine,' labeled God as the “Vinedresser” and his disciples as "branches." These relationships highlight spiritual nourishment and fruitful discipleship rooted in obedience and love. Here are just a few takeaways from this vital teaching: • Jesus as the 'true vine' shows us that his disciples must remain connected to him in order to bear fruit. God nurtures and prunes these branches to increase spiritual growth. • Any and all fruitfulness comes as a result of his disciples abiding in Christ, receiving cleansing through his words as well as yielding to the loving discipline of God. • Selfless love is central to bearing fruit, and Jesus openly modeled this specific kind of love through crystal clear obedience to his Father's will. His disciples were commanded to love one another sacrificially by following his example. His sacrifice IS life to us! Lazarus, come forth! As we look beyond this beautiful vine and branches teaching for just one other example of Jesus being 'the life,' the resurrection of Lazarus comes to mind. Lazarus had been dead for four days. As Jesus proclaimed himself to be 'the resurrection and the life,' he demonstrated God's power through him to miraculously reverse death and even decay. This incredible event foreshadowed the final resurrection and restoration of all humanity. Ultimately, Jesus is 'the life' because through him, death is overturned and eternal connection with the Father becomes possible. His life defines our purpose and our spiritual fruitfulness. Marked by love, it proves we truly "abide" in him.

Pastor Kurt takes a deep dive in John 15:1–17 where there is a calls to remain rooted in the character of Christ so that His love can flow through us and bear fruit in the lives of others.

Please join us with Tim Irving for discussion of the Parable of the Vinedresser as delivered in Luke 20

Title: Jesus Is the True VineMain Text: John 15:1-11Key Points:The Vine, the Vinedresser, and the BranchesJesus is the true vine, the Father is the gardener, and we are the branches.True believers bear fruit. Fruit doesn't lead to salvation—it proves salvation.There are two types of branches: those that bear fruit and are pruned, and those that bear no fruit and are cut off.Dead Branches: Divine JudgmentBranches that don't remain in Christ are thrown away, wither, and are burned (John 15:6).Dead branches drain life, invite disease, and block light and growth—for themselves and others.Judgment is not passive—it's just, and it reveals true spiritual condition.Fruitful Branches: Divine DisciplineGod prunes fruitful branches so they bear even more fruit.Pruning is painful, but it's an act of love that draws us deeper into dependence on Christ (Hebrews 12:6, 2 Corinthians 1:8-9).Spiritual growth often comes through trials.Abide in the VineRemain. Abide. Stay close. Jesus says, “Apart from me you can do nothing.”Remaining doesn't make you a disciple—it proves that you are one.If you were hurt in community, healing happens in community.Fruit = LoveJesus' command is clear: “Love one another as I have loved you.”His joy becomes our joy when we obey His commands and live a life marked by sacrifice and love.Final Question:Are you bearing fruit? What season are you in? The goal isn't to force fruit—it's to stay close to the vine.

Today, I'm reflecting on something we rarely think about—our eyes. Ever notice how they're designed to look outward, not inward? It's almost like we were made to focus on others—their needs, their goodness, and the beauty of God's creation. But too often, we get caught up in something else: seeing others' faults instead of our own. In today's episode, we wrestle with this tough reality and dive into Jesus' words that turn the mirror back on us. He calls us not to judge others, but to repent—to see our own sin, our own shortcomings, and our deep need for His mercy. But here's the good news: we are not cut down. Jesus, the true vine, took our place. He was cut down on the cross so that we might live, grow, and bear fruit in Him. So let's talk about what true repentance looks like—not just regret, but a life transformed. A life where we see others with compassion, where we trust in God's grace, and where we praise Him not just with words, but with lives of forgiveness and love.

In this powerful Lenten sermon on Luke 13:1-9, we explore Jesus' urgent call to repentance and the fruit that true repentance produces in our lives. As we journey through the Third Sunday in Lent, Christ reminds us that suffering is not always a sign of greater sin but a call for all to turn to Him in faith. The parable of the barren fig tree reveals God's patience and mercy, urging us not to delay in seeking forgiveness and renewal.Join us as we uncover how repentance is more than regret—it is a transformation that bears fruit in our daily lives. What does it mean to bear the fruit of repentance? How does Christ, our true Vinedresser, nourish and strengthen us through His Word and Sacraments? Discover the grace of God in the Lord's Supper and how we are called to live as faithful disciples in a fallen world.

How can we practice the presence of God? By abiding in the vine.The sermon today is titled "The Habit of Abiding in God." It is the sixth installment in our series "Follow Me", and the second in the sub-series "Be With Jesus." The Scripture reading is from John 15:1-11 (ESV). Originally preached at the West Side Church of Christ (Searcy, AR) on March 9, 2025. All lessons fit under one of 6 broad categories: Begin, Instill, Discover, Grow, Learn, and Serve. This sermon is filed under GROW: Spiritual Formation.Click here if you would like to watch the sermon or read a transcript.Podcast Notes (resources used or referenced):John Mark Comer, Practicing the Way.Brother Lawrence, The Practice of the Presence of God.Tim Keller, "Grow in Grace" (Jan 5, 1992).Tim Keller, "The Vinedresser" (Jan 12, 1992).Richard Foster, Celebration of Discipline.Jonathan Storment, "Rise & Shine" (notes from this sermon), preached at Pleasant Valley Church of Christ; generously provided by Jonathan; used with permission.I'd love to connect with you!Watch sermons and find transcripts at nathanguy.com.Follow along each Sunday through YouTube livestream and find a study guide on the sermon notes page.Follow me @nathanpguy (facebook/instagram/twitter)Subscribe to my email newsletter on substack.

Rob Duff delivers a message on how God is preparing our lives to bear good fruit. Recorded live in Liberty Church on 16 March 2025

Jesus' words in John 15:1-8 provide a powerful metaphor for the believer's relationship with Him. He calls Himself the True Vine, His Father the Vinedresser, and His followers the branches.

Jesus' words in John 15:1-8 provide a powerful metaphor for the believer's relationship with Him. He calls Himself the True Vine, His Father the Vinedresser, and His followers the branches.

Abide: The Vinedresser John 15:1-11 (CSB) Pastor Thomas Hwang

Abide: The Vinedresser John 15:1-11 (CSB) Pastor Thomas Hwang

“I am the TRUE vine, and My Father is the Vinedresser.”John 15:1I believe that there is a grievous misunderstanding within the body at large about the reason our Messiah was sent here. Without this understanding, we can't truly know what it means to ”abide” in Him the way He instructs His disciples to as we continue to read through that passage in John 15. This deserves our attention, because He warns us that if we don't “abide” in Him, we will be likened to a branch that gets cut off and cast away. This is why we must understand how the branches were broken off to begin with. Broken branches in Scripture is symbolic to a broken covenant. Without this understanding, we cannot understand how the covenant was renewed through our Messiah. He didn't replace His Father's covenant—He renewed it. He came to atone for sin, yes, but the true gospel message is SO much deeper than that. He came to renew the covenant, in which He made a way for both natural and wild branches to be restored. This is why He says “I am the TRUE Vine” now. But out of all things, why would our Messiah use the imagery of a vine and a vineyard in His instructions and parables? Because He was/is teaching from the Scriptures. He is bringing to mind the prophecy that points us to Him. If you are wondering, “what prophecy?” then I encourage you to tap in to Episode 27. In order to understand the back of the Book, we have to have a foundation in the Tanakh—what people refer to as “Old” Testament. It is truly amazing how much Scripture can bring so much revelation and clarity to just one short verse in John 15:1. Episode 27 Transcript Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/ @ThePromisePerspective Subscribe on Rumble: https://rumble.com/user/the_promise_perspectiveVisit my website: www.promise-perspective.comFollow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_promise_perspective/Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/promiseperspectiveDonate on Venmo: https://venmo.com/u/stephanie-green0611Donate on PayPal: http://paypal.me/stephaniegreentppDonate on Patreon: http://patreon.com/ThePromisePerspectiveYour support is greatly appreciated ❤️Contact me: stephanie@promise-perspective.com Support the show

Our wise and loving Father knows precisely what to prune, when to prune, and how to prune things from our lives so that we can bear just the right amount and type of fruit He intends.

The parable of the barren fig tree captures the attributes of our Vinedresser Father.  He is focused, patient, determined, protective, and longsuffering, willing to do all He can so that we'll bear fruit.  

Luke 13:1-9 Lead Pastor Tim Davis @ Christ The King Church. A non-denominational Christian Church located in Canby, OR. (www.ctkcanby.com)

The most important thing we can do in our relationship with Jesus is abide in Him. Tune in this week as Pastor Westley starts our new series on John 15, highlighting the importance of intimacy with God. If you would like to partner with BLVD Church and what we are doing in the community, you can make an investment of support at https://blvd.church/give

This week Margaux's friend and fellow podcaster, Megan Nilsen, is joining us for a live dream interpretation, where God emphasizes a common theme through a series of curious dreams. These dreams highlight God's preeminence and power, accentuating that He is the one who goes before all things, providing the grace needed for 'impossible' situations and miracles.If you've been tracking with us for any length of time, you've likely heard us go through these key questions while interpreting a dream: When did you have the dream? Title of the dream, if you were to give it one. Emotions: mostly positive or negative?As we interpret the dreams, Megan also shares her metamorphosis—from living one way to discovering what it truly means to yield to God as the Vinedresser and experience the fruit of His handiwork. Check out the full episode to hear Megan's powerful story of letting go of the flesh and embracing the joy and whimsy of the Spirit—and discover how you can experience your own transformation!*Scripture References: Luke 2:52; Isaiah 43:19; John 15:1-8; Zechariah 4:6“The Spirit of God is the X Factor that you can't predict; you can prophesy it, but you can't micromanage it. It happens or it doesn't happen.”“When we're processing our own dream, God is speaking to us about our life. We don't need someone else to be an expert on our life, no one else can be. Sometimes another person coming in helps break patterns we get into in our minds…having someone else come in and ask those questions gives more space and permission for you to dig into what's happening.”Megan's Website: https://meganbnilsen.com/Healing The Soul Through God Encounters LINKMore on Breathing Underwater Membership HERENeed help discerning God's voice? Book a dream appointment HEREJoin the Community and Newsletter HERE Email: margaux@permissiontoreign.comInstagram: @permission_to_reignIntro Music by Coma-Media from PixabayPromo Music Oleksii Kaplunskyi, PixabayImage by Claire Fischer from Unsplash

I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser. – John 15:1

Jesus' blood is stronger than sin! When we repent and allow the compassionate Vinedresser to lift us into the light, we begin to bear much fruit. He knows the best conditions for us to walk in fruitfulness, and it's our joy to submit to His leadership and allow Him to prune our lives!Josh Krehbiel // ABIDE PT 3