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Stand Alone Messages

The Abiding Life of Christ | John 15:1-11

April 26, 2026Pastor Dale Cunningham

John 15:1-11

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. 9 As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love. 10 If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love. 11 These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full.

Discussion Guide

Small Group Discussion Questions

  1. Identity & Dependence
    Jesus says, “I am the vine… you are the branches” (John 15:5).
    • What does this imagery teach us about our role versus Christ’s role in the Christian life?
    • Where are you most tempted to rely on yourself instead of depending on Him?
  1. Christ Living Through You
    The sermon emphasized that Christ not only died for you but lives in you.
    • How does this change the way you think about trying to “live the Christian life”?
    • What’s the difference between striving and abiding?
  1. Understanding Your Position “In Christ”
    • Why is it important to distinguish between your unchanging position in Christ and your daily spiritual condition?
    • How might forgetting this truth affect your walk with God?
  1. Fruit and Growth
    Jesus describes different levels: no fruit, fruit, more fruit, much fruit.
    • What kind of “fruit” do you see growing in your life right now?
    • What might God be doing (or pruning) to produce more fruit in you?
  1. Abiding Practically
    The sermon described abiding as allowing nothing in your life that separates you from Christ.
    • What are some practical ways you can “abide” in Christ daily?
    • Is there anything currently hindering your closeness with Him?
  1. Surrender and Dependence
    • What does it look like for you personally to surrender to Christ “moment by moment”?
    • Why is dependence on Christ often harder than independence?
  1. Christ in Your Relationships (Marriage, Family, Others)
    • How would your relationships change if you truly allowed Christ to live His life through you?
    • What is one specific way you can reflect Christ (love, patience, humility, etc.) this week?

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