In John 15, Jesus describes himself as the true vine and the Father as the gardener. No branch can bear fruit on its own, it must stay connected to the vine. Therefore, Jesus encourages the disciples to remain in him and promises He will remain in them.
5 I am the vine; you are the branches. If a man remains in me and I in him, he will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
Jesus continues by proclaiming his love for the disciples and commanding them to “love each other as I have loved you”.
16 You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last.
Jesus has handpicked the disciples for this special mission to bear fruit that will last. Just as the disciples must remain in Jesus’ love to do this, we must remain in God’s love for our sole source of nourishment so we can water His seeds.
