Jesus is the Vine

A Word of Truth #042  

Jesus says: “I am the Vine, you are the branches. He who abides in Me, and I in him, bears much fruit; for without me You can do nothing” (John 15:5).

If we are separated from Christ we are cut off from our life-source. Such a separation is always of our own doing because Jesus promises that He will never leave nor forsake us (cf. Hebrews 13:5). Such a separation occurs if we cease to trust in Him for the forgiveness of sins and no longer turn to His Word for our souls. Separation from Christ, the Vine, means we can bear no fruit. Even our best deeds will still be sinful and wicked in God’s eyes.

Joined to the Vine, we have a steady supply of spiritual nourishment for life and strength, our sins are washed away, and the things we do out of love for Christ are “fruits of faith” and pleasing to God.

A branch cut from its vine will die quickly, but when joined to our Life-source we will live eternally!

Grace Alone

A Word of Truth #043  

God’s grace—what is it? Simply put, it is God’s love for all human beings—a love we do not deserve in view of our sins. St. Paul speaks of grace, when he writes, “All have sinned and fall short of the glory of God, being justified freely by His grace through the redemption that is in Christ Jesus.” (Romans 3:23-24).

God’s grace brings the Christian both joy and confidence. By grace God has saved us in Christ Jesus. By grace God forgives us, as we are led to repent of our sins. By grace God bestows upon us the gift of eternal life. By grace God promises to protect and preserve us in faith unto life’s end. If your heart is filled with fear and doubt about your relationship with God, look to His grace and rejoice.