Life Group Resources: I Am The Vine

Life Group Guide: I Am The Vine

Opening Prayer: Begin with a prayer, asking God to open hearts and minds to the message of Jesus as the True Vine.

Key Takeaways:
Jesus is the true vine, and we are the branches.
Our connection to Jesus is essential for spiritual growth and bearing fruit.
God, as the gardener, prunes us to promote healthy growth and fruitfulness.
Pruning involves removing unhealthy behaviors, thoughts, and actions.
Abiding in Christ means centering our lives on His teachings and example.

Discussion Questions:
What stood out to you most from the sermon? Why?

Jesus says, "I am the vine; you are the branches." How does this imagery help you understand your relationship with Christ?

The sermon mentions that we can become a "tangled hot mess" when we focus too much on ourselves. Can you relate to this? Share an example.

How do you think God "prunes" us in our spiritual lives? Have you experienced this kind of pruning?

The pastor mentioned feeling convicted about impatient thoughts while driving. Can you share a recent moment when you felt the Holy Spirit convicting you about something?

What are some practical ways we can "abide" or "remain" in Christ in our daily lives?

How does our connection to Christ (the vine) affect our ability to bear spiritual fruit?

The sermon emphasizes the importance of extending our branches outward to others. What are some ways we can do this in our community?

Practical Applications:
Daily Vine Time: Commit to spending at least 10 minutes each day this week in prayer and Scripture reading to strengthen your connection to the True Vine.

Pruning Journal: Keep a journal this week, noting moments when you feel God may be "pruning" you. Reflect on what behaviors or attitudes He might be addressing.

Fruit Check: At the end of each day, ask yourself: "How did I bear fruit for God today?" If you struggle to answer, pray for opportunities to do so tomorrow.

Branch Out: Choose one person this week who needs encouragement. Reach out to them with a kind word, act of service, or invitation to share about God's love.

Group Accountability: Partner with another group member to check in midweek about how you're applying the lesson of abiding in Christ.

Closing Prayer: Close the session by praying for each other, asking God to help everyone remain connected to Jesus, the True Vine, and to bear much fruit in the coming week.