Small Group Guide –Part 4 “Abiding in Christ” (John 15:1–11)

This is a discussion guide based on blog post: Part 4 “Abiding in Christ”

Key Passage: “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit.” — John 15:5 (NIV)

Opening Thought

Jesus doesn’t call us to strive—He calls us to abide. This passage isn’t about religious performance; it’s about relational presence. Our fruitfulness flows from connection, not effort. When we remain in Him, joy is the overflow.

Icebreaker

What’s something in your life that you’ve seen grow better when consistently cared for—maybe a plant, a friendship, or even a skill?

Read Together

• John 15:1–11
• Galatians 5:22–23 (Fruit of the Spirit)

Discussion Questions

1. Connection – Rooted in Relationship

• What does “abiding in Christ” look like in your current season?
• Are there rhythms or habits helping you stay connected to Him right now?

2. Dependence – Trusting the Pruner

• How do you usually respond to “pruning” seasons—when God removes something or redirects you?
• Can you think of a time when letting go of something led to growth?

3. Fruitfulness – The Evidence of Abiding

• In what ways can you tell when your spiritual life is connected or disconnected?
• Which fruit of the Spirit has been most evident in you lately? Least?

4. Joy – The Overflow of Intimacy

• Jesus promises full joy through abiding. What’s the difference between that kind of joy and temporary happiness?
• How can abiding in Christ help you cultivate joy, even in difficult seasons?

Practical Applications

• Daily Abide Time: Set aside a short, daily time—morning or night—to just be with Jesus. No agenda. Simply “remain.”
• Abiding Inventory: Evaluate your week. What feeds your connection to Christ? What subtly drains it?
• Spiritual Pruning Reflection: Journal or pray through this question: “Lord, what do You want to prune in me so I can bear more fruit?”
• Fruit Check-In: Midweek, ask someone close to you: “What fruit of the Spirit do you see in me lately?”

Closing Prayer Prompt

As a group, take a moment to be still. Invite each person to silently pray: “Jesus, I want to remain in You. Help me release control, welcome pruning, and bear fruit for Your glory.” Then close in a simple, unified prayer—maybe even aloud as one voice: “Lord, help us abide.”

amazon.com/author/stephenluckett