John 15:8
What does John 15:8 mean?
A plain-English look at John 15:8 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.
What John 15:8 means
The ultimate purpose and result of believers bearing "much fruit" is the glorification of God the Father. This fruit, which comes from abiding in Christ, demonstrates God's power and character working through His people. Furthermore, bearing much fruit serves as evidence and confirmation of true discipleship. It's not merely an option but an essential characteristic that authenticates their identity as followers of Jesus, showing a life transformed by Him.
Parallel translations
WEB
World English Bible · 2000Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; and so shall ye be my disciples.
KJV
King James Version · 1611Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; so shall ye be my disciples.
ASV
American Standard Version · 1901Herein is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit; and so shall ye be my disciples.
BBE
Bible in Basic English · 1949Here is my Father's glory, in that you give much fruit and so are my true disciples.
YLT
Young's Literal Translation · 1862`In this was my Father glorified, that ye may bear much fruit, and ye shall become my disciples.
DRA
Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752In this is my Father glorified: that you bring forth very much fruit and become my disciples.
DBY
Darby Bible · 1890In this is my Father glorified, that ye bear much fruit, and ye shall become disciples of mine.
Context
This verse explains the ultimate purpose behind the call to bear fruit, linking it directly to the Father's glory. It follows the promise of answered prayer that comes from abiding, showing that these blessings are not for personal gain but for God's redemptive purposes. This verse acts as a bridge to the next section, which further defines the nature of this fruit: love.
Cross references
Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.
- Matthew 5:44
but I say unto you, Love your enemies, and pray for them that persecute you;
- Titus 2:10
not purloining, but showing all good fidelity; that they may adorn the doctrine of God our Saviour in all things.
- Isaiah 60:21
Thy people also shall be all righteous; they shall inherit the land for ever, the branch of my planting, the work of my hands, that I may be glorified.
- John 15:5
I am the vine, ye are the branches: He that abideth in me, and I in him, the same beareth much fruit: for apart from me ye can do nothing.
- Isaiah 61:3
to appoint unto them that mourn in Zion, to give unto them a garland for ashes, the oil of joy for mourning, the garment of praise for the spirit of heaviness; that they may be called trees of righteousness, the planting of Jehovah, that he may be glorified.
- 1 Corinthians 10:31
Whether therefore ye eat, or drink, or whatsoever ye do, do all to the glory of God.
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