Sunday, September 22 AM
THE VINE INTERVENTION: God’s Unexpected Plan for Spiritual Growth
Trent Griffith
1 “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vinedresser. 2 Every branch in me that does not bear fruit he takes away, and every branch that does bear fruit he prunes, that it may bear more fruit. 3 Already you are clean because of the word that I have spoken to you. 4 Abide in me, and I in you. As the branch cannot bear fruit by itself, unless it abides in the vine, neither can you, unless you abide in me. 5 I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing. 6 If anyone does not abide in me he is thrown away like a branch and withers; and the branches are gathered, thrown into the fire, and burned. 7 If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. 8 By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. —John 15:1-8
THE PREREQUISITE FOR GROWTH:
Remaining
Uniting
Depending
THE PROCESS OF GROWTH:
Pruning is essential for growth.
Pruning changes my perspective on pain.
“My son, do not regard lightly the discipline of the Lord, nor be weary when reproved by him.
For the Lord disciplines the one he loves, and chastises every son whom he receives.” —Hebrews 12:5–667y
Discipline
God’s response to sin.
I’m doing something wrong, and God wants less of it.
Stops when the sin stops.
Proves God loves me.
Pruning
God’s response to abiding
I’m doing something right, and God wants more of it.
Continues for a lifetime.
Proves God is growing me.
THE PURPOSE OF GROWTH:
Give God access to every branch.
Trust God’s tools and timing.
Point to God’s purpose in your pain.