John 15

Jesus Is the True Vine

An electric appliance or tool is worthless unless it is plugged into a power source. Jesus Christ told His disciples a parable that taught a similar concept. As you read John 15, ponder why you must—and how you can—“plug into” the Savior’s life, light, and power.

Understanding the Scriptures

John 15

Husbandman (v. 1)Gardener

Abide (vv. 4–7, 10)Continue

Cast forth (v. 6)Cut off

John 15:3—How Can “the Word” Make You Clean?

The “word” of the Lord is His gospel, which includes His commandments. Elder Joseph B. Wirthlin, an Apostle, said, “Through the marvelous power of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, a power activated by our obedience to His commandments, we can be washed clean of our sins” (in Conference Report, Oct. 1996, 98; or Ensign, Nov. 1996, 72).

John 15:22–24—“No Cloke for Their Sin”

Would it be right to condemn a person for breaking a law he or she had no idea even existed? The Book of Mormon prophet Jacob taught, “Where there is no law given there is no punishment” (2 Nephi 9:25). But those whom the Savior had taught had no “cloke” or excuse for their sins and would be held accountable for living what they had received (see D&C 82:3–4).

Studying the Scriptures

Do two of the following activities (A–D) as you study John 15.

1. Draw a Picture

   1. Draw a tree with a branch missing. Draw the branch as if it had been cut from the tree.

   2. What would happen in time to the branch cut from the tree?

   3. What would happen to the fruit on that branch?

   4. On the branches of the healthy side of the tree, write the ways Jesus taught we can have life and be fruitful branches of the Lord (see John 15:2–8, 16).

2. If …

   In John 15:6–20 is recorded eight “if” clauses given by the Savior. “If” clauses are cause and effect statements. For example, if you keep the commandments, you will be blessed. List each of the eight “if” clauses, along with its effect.

3. Are You a Friend of the Lord or of the World?

   Compare John 15:9–14 with John 15:18–19, 23–25 and answer the following questions:

   1. What is that greater love, and how does it apply to true friendship?

   2. Why do you think the world, or those who are “of the world,” hate the things of God?

   3. What can you do to be a friend to the Lord?

4. Missionary Journal

   Imagine you are a missionary and that earlier in the day you and your companion taught a family about baptism. One of them explained that they had already been baptized by immersion by their minister. Some ministers claim they have authority simply because they teach the Bible. Write a journal entry about how you used John 15:16 to teach the family the truth about the proper authority to baptize.