Jesus: The Fruit Bearing Branch

Introduction

Israel (The Despised Branch)

The Church (Despised Branches)

Branches Bear Fruit

DISCIPLESHIP GROUP QUESTIONS

EQUIP

• Read aloud the passages referenced on Sunday (Matthew 2:19-23, Isaiah 11 and Isaiah 53). As you read through these verses again, why do you think that it is significant that Jesus was a despised individual? What is it about his lowly state that either draws you nearer to him, or maybe confuses you? Talk this through with your discipleship group.
• Have you ever noticed how the Scriptures constantly highlight the less fortunate and marginalized? Why do you think that is? (see Isaiah 61:1-3; Matt. 5:2-12). How might that relate to Jesus as described in Isaiah 53:1-3?

ENCOURAGE

• Where have you seen fruit bearing in one another’s lives? Be specific, even if it’s something small. Use this time to point out how you have seen growth in one another, and if there isn’t much, push each other on some of the commitments you might have previously made.

CHALLENGE

• In what ways have you been despised or rejected because of your faith in Christ? How are you a Nazarene? In what ways have you maybe chosen an easier path in order to not be seen as being acquainted with the Nazarene (see Luke 22:54-60)?
• What does it mean to bear fruit, and are you bearing fruit? Discuss this with your discipleship group, and share with one another areas where you are intentionally trying to mature as a follower of Jesus. Hold each other accountable, and pray for one another.