2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. John 15:2-3
On one hand, Jesus says fruitless believers are cut off from the Vine. On the other hand, fruitful believers are PRUNED. So while fruitless (loveless), “cosmetic” believers are cut off, fruitful saints are pruned or cleansed (Greek kathairei). How does Jesus prune us?
Well, Jesus clearly states that it’s by means of His word (John 15:3). Yet many sincere believers and ministers hold that God uses problems to prune us. While I don’t deny that trials and tribulations can be used to develop endurance and character (James 1:2-4), in this passage that is NOT the primary method God uses to prune us!
Beloveds, there are issues in our lives that can only be uprooted by submission to the Word of God. Certain chains are only broken by knowing the truth that sets free indeed (John 8:32). Certain mental strongholds can only be demolished by means of divine revelation (see 2 Corinthians 10:4-5).
Therefore, if you want to be more fruitful in Christ, submit yourself to the cleansing power of the word of Christ daily. Let the divine detergent wash away your destructive thoughts, habits and burdens. Allow the word of God to renew your mind and transform your life. Then fruitfulness becomes automatic.
Pastor Josh