Bible Question: John 15:6 - what is this verse actually saying? Most people who are advocates of "conditional security" rather than "eternal security" use this verse among many others. Can anyone please explain the matter of "thrown into the fire..." and "burned." |
Bible Answer: John 15:2 2 Every branch in me that beareth not fruit he taketh away: and every branch that beareth fruit, he purgeth it, that it may bring forth more fruit. (KJV) John 15:6 6 If a man abide not in me, he is cast forth as a branch, and is withered; and men gather them, and cast them into the fire, and they are burned. (KJV) Jesus speaks of three different kinds of people. In verse 2, he speaks of two of them. They are branches in him meaning they are saved. Some bear fruit and are pruned to bear more fruit. The others bear no fruit and are taken away. They might be backslid or spiritually immature,but they bear no fruit. This goes along with the parable of the sower (Matt. 13:1-9). Some seed grew on stony ground and could not withstand the elements because it had no deep roots (spiritually immature). Some seed grew in the thorns and the thorns choked it (backslid). Some seed grew on good soil and bore much fruit ("branch that beareth fruit"). The group in verse 6, describes the seed that fell by the wayside and the fowls devoured them. They never grew and never became branches.....they were cast forth LIKE branches. They were never attached to the vine at any time. If they had been, they would not have withered. Since they have no value, and no one wants them, then they must be burned (Hell). In verses 2-5, Jesus talks about abiding in me that you might bear fruit. In verse 6, he says abide in me or you will be burned meaning that you are not his...... Matt 7:22-23 22 Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? 23 And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity. (KJV) |