John 15:5 I am the vine, you are the branches: He that stays in me, and I in him, the same brings forth much fruit… I. AS TO THE STUDY OF THE BIBLE. There is much in the Bible which all must understand and admire; but as to its moral spirit and purpose what can be done without Christ? How slow of heart to believe were the disciples till Christ opened their understandings (Luke 24:48). Of the Old Testament Christ said, "They are they which testify of Me." The first words of the New are, "The Book of the Generations of Jesus Christ;" and its last, "The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ," etc. He is the Alpha and Omega, and of the whole Bible John 20:31 may be said. II. AS TO RECONCILIATION WITH GOD. That man needs this is not to be questioned; but how is it to be effected? God cannot change; His laws cannot be set aside. Sin is eternal separation from God. How, then, can man be reconciled? Only through Christ (Romans 3:19-25; Colossians 1:21; 2 Corinthians 5:19: Romans 5:11). III. AS TO PROGRESS IN THE DIVINE LIFE. From first to last the Christian is dependent on Christ. His life is derived from, developed by, devoted to Christ. IV. AS TO SUCCESS IN EVANGELISTIC WORK. (W. Forsyth, M. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same bringeth forth much fruit: for without me ye can do nothing. |
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