“The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly.” —John 10:10 ESV Sin separated all mankind from a life of true abundance. But Jesus gives all mankind the opportunity to return to the “true vine” and thus live and receive life abundantly.

As a seed that is alone dies and becomes a tree with fruitbearing branches, so also did Christ die and become a risen Savior, providing forgiveness and restoration to each one of us. He is no longer alone because He receives us to Himself.

When we are mistreated or disappointed, it’s very easy to respond in anger with harsh, hurtful words. But that is not what Christ demonstrates, nor is it what we receive through abiding in Him.

We are continuing with our exploration of the Fruit of the Spirit, LOVE, we find kindness, goodness and faithfulness.

Jesus revealed truths concerning the vine and branches so that we might receive His joy to the fullest (John 14:27, 15:11). This week we will talk about Joy, Peace and Patience.

God desires that each of us bear “much fruit.” Through study and recognizing the unity of scripture, we find that the fruit God wants us to bear is the same Fruit of the Spirit identified in Galatians 5:22-23.

Nothing or no one in this world can fulfill our joy like abiding in Christ. It’s from this source of joy that we can all endure the trials of this world and bring glory to God the Father.

As born again branches with new positions in Christ and new roots because of His holiness, the believer now has a new purpose. This week we will discuss the true meaning of abiding in Christ.

Changing our character is not always easy. In this week's teaching, we will delve into the needed transformation that must take place.