“I am the true vine, and My Father is the vinedresser.”
John 15:1
The Old Testament repeatedly refers to Israel as a vine. After taking it out of Egypt and transplanting it in Canaan, God labored to enable His tender plant to grow (Psalm 80:8,9). However, the experience was disappointing. Instead of something worthwhile, the vine produced only wild grapes (Isaiah 5:2). The seed was good. God started with only the best, but somehow it degenerated into an alien plant that had to be rejected (Jeremiah 2:21).
Today, not everyone will understand the depth of meaning in this imagery, but it was clear to the people in Bible times who were very familiar with vineyards. They knew that grape production was a labor-intensive industry and a worthless harvest after years of effort would be more than a little disappointing.
For centuries, God nurtured and cared for Israel. He called the nation His, giving it not only His blessing and protection, but also His law, His prophets, and many works of wonder. Yet for all this expense of concern, Israel’s fruit was bitter and useless to the owner. Every new effort to produce a crop of faithfulness resulted in new regrets. Finally, it came time to uproot and cast off the wild hybrid vine and replace it with something true and productive.
Jesus is the True Vine, and the Father will never be disappointed in Him. He is the perfect fulfillment of the plans and purposes of God.
When Israel sought life through law-keeping and ceremony, they found none there. They became withered and worthless. However, Christ Himself is the True Vine. He is the source of life and grace so that all those who abide in Him can expect to live a life that is fruitful and productive.
August 19
