Notes from Tuesday study

"Each branch in Me that does not bear fruit, he takes away; and every branch that bears fruit, He prunes it so that it may bear more fruit." - John 15:2

Loving each other is a way we can bear fruit. 

Other ideas about fruit: Galatians 5 - Fruit of the Spirit; Matthew 7:16-23 - known by our fruit; Colossians 1:10 - good works are fruit.

If we are producing bad fruit, then part of us is not connected to the vine. We need to correct our problem with the source, and the behavioural problems will fall into line. We can not produce good fruit unless we abide in Jesus.

Sometimes it is necessary for God to take us back to a place we once were, so that we are not hanging on to dead "branches." 

Hebrews 12:10-12 - We will always go through times of testing, but afterward, we are able to produce more fruit.

How are my hobbies, interests and relationships fruitful?

Inspired by the Conestoga Valley CoC service

"Treat others in the same way you want them to treat you." - Luke 6:31

Christianity is pro-active. We are not called to just refrain from doing bad things, but we are to make a point to do good things.

When people treat us poorly, we can ignore them and not retaliate in a negative way. But that is not enough. We must go out of our way to do good even to those people. We must treat them in the same manner that we treat those who do good to us.

Inspired by Chaz's sermon

"But resist him, firm in your faith, knowing that the same experiences of suffering are being accomplished by your brethren who are in the world." - 1 Peter 5:9

When we think about the sufferings of others, we usually think physical things or spiritual persecution. But rarely do we think about struggles with our faith. We often believe that our faltering is an uncommon struggle with those who are strong in their faith. But in actuality, it is usually the most common struggle we go through. None of us are strong enough on our own, yet our pride always fools us into believing it, even if for a little while. We must remember that doubt is not a weakness, but a time for renewal. Because in our questioning we find answers, if we are willing to search for them.