Abiding in Christ, Proclaiming Christ - A devotion by Jeya

John 15:5 , 1 Corinthians 3:12-13 

 

“I am the vine; you are the branches. Whoever abides in me and I in him, he it is that bears much fruit, for apart from me you can do nothing.” - John 15:5 ESV

 

Jesus never called His followers to a private or comfortable faith. From the beginning, His invitation carried an outward focus, one that reaches lost people with the hope of the gospel. Evangelism was never meant to be driven by pressure, fear, or human ability alone. It flows from a living, daily relationship with Christ and results in work that lasts for eternity. 

 

John 15:5 and 1 Corinthians 3:12–13 together show us both the power source and the eternal purpose behind sharing the gospel.

 

Evangelism that flows from abiding

 

In John 15:5, Jesus declares, “I am the vine; you are the branches.” This picture reminds us that spiritual fruit, including the fruit of changed lives, does not come from striving harder, but from staying connected to Him. 

 

A branch doesn’t produce fruit by effort; it produces fruit by remaining in the vine. In the same way, effective evangelism is not rooted in personality, persuasive words, or methods, but in abiding in Christ.

 

When we spend time with Jesus, listen to His Word, and rely on the Holy Spirit, our lives begin to reflect Him. That transformed life becomes a powerful testimony. Our love, patience, humility, and courage open doors for the gospel. Evangelism becomes a natural overflow of who Christ is in us, not a forced task a check off  list.

 

Jesus’ words, “Apart from me you can do nothing,” redirect us away from self-reliance. We may speak often, serve faithfully, or reach many people, but without Christ as the source, our efforts lack eternal impact. True gospel witness begins with abiding before it ever begins with going.

 

Building gospel work that lasts

 

Paul echoes this truth in 1 Corinthians 3:12–13 by reminding believers that while Christ is the foundation, we are responsible for how we build upon it. In evangelism, this matters deeply. Sharing the gospel with sincerity, love, and faith builds with gold, silver, and precious stones.

Rushed words, prideful motives, or a desire for recognition build with wood, hay, and straw.

 

God’s refining fire will one day reveal whether our gospel work was rooted in obedience and love or driven by appearances and results. 

 

Evangelism/ mission is not just about how many hear, but how faithfully we represent Christ. Taking time to listen, pray, disciple, and walk with people often feels slow, but this is the kind of work that endures.

 

When we abide in Christ and share the gospel with eternal purpose, our witness becomes more than words, it becomes a reflection of Jesus Himself.  God uses such faithful lives to reach hearts, transform families, and shape generations far beyond what we can see.

 

Reflection Questions

 

1) How does your daily relationship with Christ shape the way you share the gospel with others?

2) Are there areas where you rely more on your own ability than on the Holy Spirit in evangelism?

3) What “building materials” are evident in your witness—faithful obedience or rushed effort?

4) Who has God placed in your life right now that He may be calling you to reach with His love?

 

Prayer

 

Lord Jesus, thank You for being the true vine and the source of all life and fruit. Teach me to abide in You daily, not just for my own growth, but so that others may see You through me. Remove any fear, pride, or self-reliance that keeps me from sharing the gospel faithfully.  Help me build Your kingdom with love, patience, and obedience that will last for eternity.  Use my words, my actions, and my life to point others to You. 

 

I trust You to bring the fruit. 

 

Jesus In your precious name, Amen.