Jun 23, 2020
A “vine” has long been a symbol of the Messiah for the nation of Israel, both in the Hebrew Bible and for Judaism to this day. Vine images have appeared on Jewish coinage and also by the door of the Holy Place was a golden vine. Here now is the 7th “I Am” saying of Jesus. Jesus is the “true” vine, and the Father is the vinedresser, thus the one who planted and tends the vine to make it fruitful. By abiding in the vine, a branch brings forth fruit, and Jesus’ disciples are the fruit. And, then by being in Jesus, the disciples, followers of Jesus, also bring forth fruit by abiding in Him. Again, Jesus restates His great commandment, that is to love one another as He has loved them.