A study of John 15:7-11 reveals Jesus saying to ask for whatever we wish, how to abide in Jesus’ love, and the way to full joy.
A study of John 15:7-11 reveals Jesus saying “ask whatever you wish and it will be done for you”
If you abide in me, and my words abide in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you. (ESV, John 15:7)
Our eyes grow big reading this sentence. And we maybe even compile a list of requests. God gives us anything we wish? Like beach vacations, new cars, and a six figure income? And God is the celestial genie who delivers our wish fulfillment? Wow! Makes Christianity sound like a pretty good gig. But wait. Let’s re-read the first half of the sentence. Because there’s an “IF” that qualifies the second half.
What is abiding in Christ?
If you abide in me. We looked at abiding in Christ in V.1-6. Jesus framed it in the metaphor of growing a vineyard. God is the gardener, Jesus the vine, and his disciples the branches. And as we the branches, abide in Jesus the vine, we produce spiritual fruit. Unfortunately, no beach vacation is mentioned. The next words add another complication. And my words abide in you.
When you study all the words that Jesus spoke along with the rest of scripture, there are no guarantees of material wealth. On the contrary, Jesus frequently warned against loving money and the things of this world. Furthermore, our wishes should conform to his word. Therefore, when Christ’s words abide in us, our desire is to glorify the father. And our prayers that flow from abiding in Christ align with his will. Furthermore, just because we ask doesn’t mean the answer is always yes. That might mean no new car either.
A study of John 15:7-11 reveals how to abide in Jesus’ love.
By this my Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit and so prove to be my disciples. As the Father has loved me, so have I loved you. Abide in my love.(ESV, John 15:8-9)
Disciples who follow God’s word, pursue an ongoing relationship with Christ, and seek to glorify God, bear much fruit. It is the visible produce of branches attached to the Vine. Scripture mentions some specific ones like Christ-like character, obedience, witness, and good works. But rather than creating a spiritual fruits checklist to cross off, think of fruit as the entire life and ministry of those who follow Jesus’ teaching and experience his presence in their lives. And the fruit we produce in our union with Christ is another way that Jesus brings glory to his father.
What does abiding in Jesus’ love look like?
Abiding in Jesus’ love is not a luxurious soaking in emotional feeling. The Greek word used for “love” is agape. The New Testament’s primary term for the highest, purest form of love. Agape is a deliberate, self-giving, commitment of will that seeks the highest good of its object. And expressed regardless of merit, emotion, or reciprocation. It defines God’s love for us and how disciples should love others. Agape does not equate with our modern view of love as affection, romantic passion, or even the bonding love of family. Instead, it is holy, resolute, sacrificial and demonstrated through action. Jesus describes the action he expects from disciples in the next verse.
If you keep my commandments, you will abide in my love, just as I have kept my Father’s commandments and abide in his love.(ESV, John 15:10)
Jesus kept his father’s commandments. And we are to follow his example and abide in his love by keeping his commandments. Why? Because Jesus is a control freak? A power hungry tyrant? No. Jesus’ commandments and teachings are for our own good. Following them leads us into a life of purpose, meaning, and an eternal destiny.
A study of John 15:7-11 reveals the way to full joy.
These things I have spoken to you, that my joy may be in you, and that your joy may be full. (ESV, John 15:11)
As we abide in Christ and keep his commandments, the result is full joy. Jesus calls it my joy since he imparts to us what he possesses as the obedient Son. The Greek word for “full” is plērŏō, which also means complete, perfect, and satisfy. And the Greek word for “joy” is chara, which also means deep gladness, delight, or rejoicing.
It is a complete joy that goes beyond the fleeting emotions of joyful occasions like weddings and welcomed births of new family members. Rather, it is Spirit produced rejoicing that is rooted in the saving work and ongoing presence of Christ. And it endures in the midst of sorrow, sickness, and difficult circumstances. Because it is settled, overflowing gladness that flows from God Himself.
Jesus remained in the father’s love by perfect obedience and we remain in Jesus’ love by keeping his commandments. They are not a burden we bear, but the willing submission to our Lord in order to please him.
About Chip Tudor:
Chip Tudor is a Christian author, and blogger who publishes Christian non-fiction and fiction books, humorous drama, and scripturally centered, thought-provoking blog posts from a Christian worldview. To learn more visit: www.chiptudor.com.
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