The Promise of a New Relationship
“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.” John 15:1
Hello Bride of Christ,
Have you ever reached a point in a relationship where starting over felt like the only way to restore it? Sometimes, a fresh beginning turns things around and brings healthier results. Similarly, throughout history, God has sought to renew His relationship with us.
In the Garden of Eden, Adam and Eve enjoyed the privilege of walking with God in the cool of the day (Genesis 3:8). As time progressed, figures like Noah, Abram, Jacob, and Moses were visited by God and given profound promises (see Genesis 9:12-17, Genesis 12:1-3, Genesis 32:28, Exodus 3:8). From these encounters, God chose an entire nation—Israel (Exodus 19:5-6). Despite experiencing God's favor, provision, and presence (Deuteronomy 8:3, Psalm 105:4-5, Isaiah 41:10), God still envisioned a deeper relationship.
Fast forward to the Upper Room, where Jesus and His eleven remaining disciples gathered. With Judas having left to betray Him, Jesus offers His disciples 25 promises and 13 admonitions (A. Fruchtenbaum, Yeshua The Life of Messiah, 510). Among these promises is the promise of a new relationship with the Messiah—a relationship that transforms and renews.
“I am the vine, you are the branches; he who abides in Me and I in him, he bears much fruit, for apart from Me you can do nothing.” John 15:5
Jesus’ tenth promise to believers- Him being the vine and us being the branches, would offer a new relationship to the vine. This relationship of being IN Messiah.
How is this different? What does this new relationship offer?
No longer would God walk alongside mankind as He did in times past, but through the Holy Spirit, He would now dwell within the hearts of believers (John 14:17). Whereas once only Moses and Abraham were considered friends of God (Exodus 33:11 and James 2:23), now everyone who believes in Jesus as the Messiah is called a friend of God (John 15:15). A more intimate relationship with God awaits us!
Bride of Christ, here are some practical ways to abide in Jesus, the true vine, and bear fruit that glorifies the Father:
Set aside time to study the Word of God: Engage in personal and communal Bible study. Utilize online reading plans for individual study and attend your local congregation's services, whether on Sunday or Saturday.
Transform your commute into a praise session: Curate a playlist of your favorite worship music or tune into a local worship radio station to uplift your spirit while you travel.
Pray through your daily tasks: Use everyday moments, such as folding laundry or washing dishes, to converse with Jesus and the Father. Pray for those whose clothes you handle and thank God for His provision and presence in these routine tasks.
These small adjustments may seem minor, but they hold immeasurable eternal value. Jesus assures us that as we abide in Him, our joy will be complete (John 15:11). Therefore, choose today to embrace this promise, for Jesus is eagerly waiting for you.
