Unbroken Fellowship With the Father: A Study of Intimacy in Johnნიმუში

Life Redefined
Jesus links abiding to relational transformation: “As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Now remain in my love. My command is this: Love each other as I have loved you.” (John 15:9,12 NIV). Experiencing unbroken fellowship with God inevitably re-shapes how we see people. You cannot drink from an ocean of grace and then dole out teaspoons of bitterness.

The Gospel redefines some of our key relationships: our relationship with God, ourselves, our spouse, our Church, our friends, our neighbours, our enemies, those we work with, and creation itself.

But Jesus is blunt: remaining in love is conditional: “if you keep My commands” (John 15:10 NIV). This is not a threat of abandonment; rather, obedience is the pathway into experienced intimacy. When we harbour resentment or gossip, we block the flow of sap; we forfeit joy (v. 11). The quickest way to measure our abiding is to examine our loving.

How do we love? “Greater love has no one than this: to lay down one’s life for one’s friends.” (v. 13). Laying down life may look like initiating a hard conversation, forgiving first, honouring when misunderstood, serving without applause. These choices feel costly until we remember: we are branches drawing from an infinite Vine.

Next Step – “Relationship Redefinition Card”
On a card, write three headings: GOD / SOMEONE I LOVE / MYSELF. Under each, finish the sentence, “Because I abide in Christ, I will choose to …” (e.g., “pray before emails,” “speak blessing over my spouse,” “reject self-shame”). Place the card where you pray. Practice one choice each day, trusting the Vine to supply love.