There are many things we have learned so far in this brief passage.  First, notice that the purpose of the vine is to bear fruit.  Our purpose as Christians is to abide in Christ so that we might bear fruit. Just what is the “fruit” which is either absent or present? What is the difference between a “fruitful” branch and an “unfruitful” branch? Some think that the “fruit” our Lord referred to here is the “fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23). Others think of the “fruit” as new converts—those who have been saved as a result of the witness of the branches. I understand the term fruit a bit more broadly. I believe that as we abide in Christ, He abides in us, and when He abides in us, Jesus Christ becomes evident in and through us. The “fruit” then, is any sign of being Christ-like. Do you see Jesus’ life moving through you?  Do you feel His nudging?