There is a considerable amount of perplexity surrounding John 15 the Vinedresser and the branches.
I'll post excerpts from this excellent article breaking these issues down:
A superficial look at John 15:2a will direct us to look at John 15:6, but when we skip over the problems stemming from providing only one translation, as we should, then we can begin to appreciate the significance difference between the John 15:2a branches and 15:6 branches.
Two convincing contextual teachings prove John 15:2a branches are not the same ones as in John 15:6.
The branches in 15:2a, those that are lifted up (or taken away), are affirmed to be “
in Me.” Jesus claims them as His own. This is the very opposite to those in 15:6, “If anyone
does not abide in Me.” They do not belong to Him.
Anyone familiar with the Gospel of John or the epistles know that this phrase “in Me” or “in Christ” are potent theological phrases involved in God’s grand redemptive program. “
In Me” is used 24 times in the Gospel of John. Paul uses “In Christ” 14 times in Ephesians (10 times in Galatians). “In Him” (or into, Himself) is used 9 times in Ephesians.
By believing in Christ, one becomes in Christ and will never die. Just a sample of these “in Me” Johannine verses indicate a sure salvation, affirming what Jesus says in John 15:2.
“He who eats My flesh and drinks My blood abides in Me, and I in him” (John 6:56).
“I have come as Light into the world, so that everyone who believes in Me will not remain in darkness” (John 12:46).
Jesus said to her, “I am the resurrection and the life; he who believes in Me will live even if he dies, and everyone who lives and believes in Me
will never die. Do you believe this?” (John 11:25-26)
In Me — A Powerful theological New Testament Term
Enormous issues pop up once we assume those branches that do not bear fruit are the same as those taken away and burned up. Instead, Jesus in His pastoral role refers to those who are troubled, upset, self-focused, distracted, etc. They are not unbelievers, nor are they believers who lose their salvation. They are the disciples facing problems that need tending.
I will not debate the issue of the possibility of a believer to lose one’s salvation as that derives from the inappropriate translation “take away.” Jesus said and meant the exact opposite than the meaning “take away” lead by asserting those to believe in Him have eternal life. They are in Christ! This is why Jesus deals with them so gently here, that is, He lifts them up. He hopes for them to bear fruit.
Here is the entire article:
John 15:2 The Interpretation and Translation of “Lift up” over “Take away” | Biblical Foundations for Freedom
