The Vine

Discussion Questions:

1. Read John 15:1-17 together 

What are the things that stand out to you in your initial reading of these passages?

2. Read John 15:1-2, 5, Psalm 80:8-11, & Isaiah 5:1-7.

Discuss what it means for Jesus to describe Himself as The Vine and us as the branches? How does this image speak to our relationship with Him? Share a personal story from your life of feeling connected to Christ or disconnected from Him and how it affected your spiritual life during that time.

3. Read John 15:4-7, Colossians 2:6-7, & Psalm 1:1-3.

How do we practically abide in Christ in our day-to-day lives? Discuss specific spiritual disciplines or habits that help us remain connected to Him. Discuss how you’ve personally seen spending time with Jesus through prayer, Bible reading, or worship impacts your day-to-day life.

4. Read John 15:8, Galatians 5:22-24, & Matthew 7:15-20.

What does it practically mean and look like to bear fruit as followers of Jesus? How can we recognize the fruit of the Spirit in our lives, and how does it impact those around us? Share a recent experience where you witnessed the fruit of the Spirit in your own life or someone else's.

5. Read John 15:2, Hebrews 12:10-11, & James 1:2-4.

How does God's pruning in our lives lead to more spiritual growth and fruitfulness? Share a time when you experienced pruning or trials that ultimately resulted in spiritual growth. How can you personally respond to difficult seasons with faith and trust in God's work of refining/pruning in your life?

6. Read John 15:5, 1 Corinthians 12:12-27, & Ephesians 4:15-16.

Discuss the importance of community and connection with other believers in bearing fruit for God's Kingdom. How can we as The Well community support and encourage one another in our spiritual growth and missional living? Share about how you are currently experiencing the power of Christian community in your life.

7. Read John 15:9-13, 1 John 4:7-12, & Romans 12:9-13.

How does abiding in Christ's love impact our relationships with other people? Discuss the ways we can love one another as Christ has loved us. Discuss practical examples of showing Christ-like love to someone, both inside and outside the walls of church community.

8. Read John 15:16, 1 Corinthians 3:11-15, & Revelation 22:1-5.

In what ways can we bear fruit that lasts for eternity? Discuss the significance of investing in God's Kingdom and making disciples who can make disciples. Share about a person who has had a lasting impact on your spiritual journey, and discuss ways we can make an impact in someone else’s spiritual journey.