"This is to my Father’s glory, that you bear much fruit, showing yourselves to be my disciples."

John 15:8 (NIV)

The Gospel of John was written to both Jews and Gentiles to show that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God, and that by believing, they may have life in His name

John 15 is part of Jesus' Farewell Discourse to His disciples, given during the Last Supper. In this chapter, Jesus uses the metaphor of the vine and the branches to describe the relationship between Himself, His followers, and God the Father. This teaching emphasizes the importance of remaining in Jesus to bear spiritual fruit.

Study

1. "This is to my Father’s glory":

• The ultimate purpose of bearing fruit is to glorify God. Everything believers do should point back to the greatness and goodness of God.
• Matthew 5:16: "In the same way, let your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven."
• 1 Corinthians 10:31: "So whether you eat or drink or whatever you do, do it all for the glory of God."

1. "That you bear much fruit":

• Bearing fruit refers to producing outcomes in one's life that reflect the character and mission of Jesus. This includes qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (Galatians 5:22-23), as well as leading others to faith and performing good works.
• Galatians 5:22-23: "But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, forbearance, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control. Against such things there is no law."
• Matthew 7:17: "Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit."

1. "Showing yourselves to be my disciples":

• Bearing fruit is evidence of true discipleship. Discipleship involves following Jesus' teachings and example, resulting in a transformed life that produces spiritual fruit.
• John 13:35: "By this everyone will know that you are my disciples, if you love one another."
• James 2:18: "But someone will say, 'You have faith; I have deeds.' Show me your faith without deeds, and I will show you my faith by my deeds."

Practical Application

1. Glorifying God:

• Reflect on how your actions and attitudes can bring glory to God. Consider ways to live that point others to His greatness.
• 1 Peter 4:11: "If anyone speaks, they should do so as one who speaks the very words of God. If anyone serves, they should do so with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised through Jesus Christ. To him be the glory and the power for ever and ever. Amen."

1. Bearing Fruit:

• Evaluate the spiritual fruit in your life. Are you growing in the characteristics of the Spirit? Are you influencing others for Christ? Seek opportunities to develop these areas through prayer, studying the Word, and practical application.
• Colossians 1:10: "So that you may live a life worthy of the Lord and please him in every way: bearing fruit in every good work, growing in the knowledge of God."

1. True Discipleship:

• Reflect on what it means to be a disciple of Jesus. How are you following His teachings and example in your daily life? Look for ways to demonstrate your faith through love and service to others.
• Luke 9:23: "Then he said to them all: 'Whoever wants to be my disciple must deny themselves and take up their cross daily and follow me.'"

Reflection Questions

1. How can I glorify God in my daily activities and relationships?
2. What specific fruits of the Spirit do I need to cultivate more in my life?
3. In what ways can I more effectively demonstrate my discipleship through my actions and interactions with others?

John 15:8 emphasizes that the primary goal of a believer's life is to bring glory to God through bearing much fruit. This fruitfulness is a testament to true discipleship and reflects the transforming power of remaining in Christ. By cultivating spiritual virtues and leading a life that honors God, believers can demonstrate their commitment to Jesus and positively impact the world around them. This passage challenges us to examine our lives, seek spiritual growth, and live in a way that continually points back to the glory of God.