Branching In

by Mike Hipsley | Jul 18, 2021 | Sermon, Spiritually Healthy

Spiritual health is impossible apart from discipleship. We can hardly say that, as Christians, we are spiritually healthy if we are not following the way of Jesus. The question is how do we follow Jesus in a healthy way? It is very easy for discipleship to become about “Do’s” and “Don’ts” and a list of rules. These things look like discipleship but fail to produce real-life and joy within us. This week we’ll look at some of what Jesus had to say about how to follow Him well.

Discussion Questions

Who are some of the people you follow in different areas of your life and interests? Why do you follow them?

In the ancient world being a “disciple” meant far more than following the teaching of a Rabbi or Master, it meant adopting their lifestyle. What insight does this give us into what it means to be Jesus’ disciple?

Read John 15:1 and 2. Jesus said that fruit-bearing branches would be pruned. Pruning is uncomfortable. Why would God make us uncomfortable? How could this be a benefit to us?

In what areas of your life is God making you uncomfortable right now?

Where are some places that you “abide” on a regular basis? Why do you abide there?

What are some ways that you abide in Jesus? What is one practice you could adopt to help you abide more deeply?

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