2026-05-10, "Becoming Fruitful"

Main message: Christians are called to bear fruit by remaining connected to Jesus (the true vine); that fruit is both making disciples and growing Christlike character, and God will prune our lives—removing dead wood, wasted time, and even good-but-misdirected things—so we can be more fruitful.

Key points:

• Jesus’ vine/branches image (John 15) teaches that apart from remaining in him we can do nothing and our fruit will wither.
• Fruit includes making disciples (spiritual offspring) and the Christlike character produced by the Spirit.
• Galatians 5:22–23 is presented as the kind of inner fruit (love, joy, peace, etc.) Jesus grows in us.
• Pruning by the Father (the gardener) is necessary: cut away dead habits, time-wasting activities, and some good things that distract from your calling.
• Practical application: evaluate your connection to Christ, ask God to prune what’s needed, and respond (including the invitation to begin or renew faith).

Scriptures mentioned: John 15:1-6, Galatians 5:22-23, Matthew, Mark, Luke, John