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STop Striving, Start Abiding

April 19 | Discipleship Guide

Be Real Together:

Take a few minutes to catch up, tell stories, and laugh together.
If you’re launching a new Group, trust and friendship take time to build. Take turns each week having someone share a bit of their story.

Read Together: John 15:1–8 CSB

This week, we were reminded that the Christian life is not about striving harder, but staying connected to Jesus. He is the true vine, and we are the branches—completely dependent on Him for life and growth. Real spiritual fruit isn’t produced through effort or performance, but through abiding—remaining in close, daily connection with Christ. As we stay rooted in Him, His life naturally flows through us, producing fruit that glorifies God, transforms us, and blesses others.

The One Question:
If you only have time for one question, ask this one.

What is the difference between striving to be a “good Christian” and abiding in Jesus and why is that distinction so important?

Grow Together:
Use these questions to go deeper with your Group or for personal reflection.

  1. In John 15:1-8, what images or metaphors does Jesus use to describe Himself, God the Father, and us?
  2. What word or phrase is repeated most often in this passage? Why do you think that matters?
  3. In verse 5, what does Jesus say is the result of remaining in Him?
  4. Which of the fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22–23) do you most desire to see grow in your life right now? Why?
  5. Are there areas of your life where you’ve been focused more on outward behavior than inward connection with Jesus? What might it look like to shift your focus?
  6. What tends to distract you or pull you away from staying connected to Jesus throughout your day?
  7. Jesus talks about abiding not just individually, but as branches together. How has community helped you stay connected to Jesus—or where might you need to lean into it more?

Pray Together:

  • Thank Jesus that He is the true source of life and that we don’t have to strive to earn what He freely gives.
  • Ask the Holy Spirit to reveal areas where you’ve been relying on your own effort instead of staying connected to Him.
  • Pray for a deeper desire to abide in Jesus daily—through His Word, His presence, and His people.
  • Ask God to produce fruit in your life that reflects His character.
  • Pray for one another—that your lives would be rooted in Christ and marked by lasting fruit.

Next Steps:

  • Start your day with Jesus: Set aside 10 minutes each morning this week to sit quietly with John 15. Ask, “Jesus, what do You want to show me?”
  • Create space for connection: Identify one daily rhythm (morning, commute, lunch, or evening) where you can intentionally turn your attention to God.
  • Lean into community: Reach out to someone in your group this week to share what God is teaching you or to pray together.