Notes on John 15: 1 – 11

We saw a link to Isaiah 11 in this passage but, where the “root of Jesse” in Isaiah stands alone, this passage shows Jesus being more inclusive. All followers of Jesus are branches and can produce fruit to God’s glory so long as they remain in Jesus’ company.

In verses 1 and 2 Jesus appears to be talking about himself. As a human, Jesus has apparently undergone the same pruning and cleansing process that he advocates for followers. (Note: the Greek word for prunes also means cleanse). We thought that the branches which were cut off were those qualities which we possess but which are not conducive to being a Christian. We thought that Jesus went through this process when he was in the desert. This is what allowed him to resist temptation. Because Jesus spoke in the present tense it implies he still continued to be pruned.

Those people who have listened to Jesus and become followers have begun the cleansing process. But it is our choice. It may take many years to cleanse us in this way. If however we resist, then we cannot bear fruit. After the cutting away, comes the regular pruning, this can only happen if we remain as followers of Jesus.

Verse 6- those who turn away are likened to branches which wither and are burnt. The writer does not say that will happen.

Verse 7- if we choose to remain in Jesus we will ask for things which accord with God’s will. In this way the answer will glorify God not us.

Verse 11 – we included this verse because it seemed like the culmination of the passage, but strangely it is not included the lectionary. However, we felt that the joy was the fulfilment the completeness of being with Jesus. When we have been completely cleansed and pruned we will be fulfilled and joyful.