Jesus declares himself to be the true vine. It is an image that was very popular in the ancient world but was especially significant for the Jews. Why was this so? The vine was a common Old Testament image representing Israel. Here are a few examples from the Old Testament that illustrate Israel not only as a vine but also tracing the nation’s descent into degenerate status:
Psalm 80:8-9
You brought a vine out of Egypt; you drove out the nations and planted it. 9 You cleared the ground for it; it took deep root and filled the land.
Jeremiah 2:21
Yet I planted you a choice vine, wholly of pure seed.
How then have you turned degenerate and become a wild vine?
Hosea 10:1-2
Israel is a luxuriant vine
that yields its fruit.
The more his fruit increased,
the more altars he built;
as his country improved,
he improved his pillars.
2 Their heart is false;
now they must bear their guilt.
The Lord will break down their altars
and destroy their pillars.
Isaiah 5:6-7
I will make it a waste; it shall not be pruned or hoed, and briers and thorns shall grow up; I will also command the clouds that they rain no rain upon it. 7 For the vineyard of the Lord of hosts is the house of Israel, and the men of Judah are his pleasant planting; and he looked for justice, but behold, bloodshed; for righteousness, but behold, an outcry!
Israel was a vine that had become false. They were busy building additional altars to Baal and other pagan deities. They were awash in material wealth, that is to say, they were a “luxuriant” vine, but their hearts were far from God. And what kind of judgment did they face? One component of their judgement is that they would not be pruned. How amazing to read that Jesus is not only the true vine but that his Father is the vinedresser who prunes and cares for the entire plant. When we are pruned by the Father, we experience some discipline but it is for our own good that we might share in his holiness and might bear much fruit. (See Hebrews 12 and John 15) Have a blessed week and see many of you fairly soon.
Love in Christ,
Pastor Dale
