John 15:5 - Staying Connected To The Source

I believe that there are certain Bible verses that every #ceo and #leader needs to know. One of those verses is John 15:5.

John 15:5 says, “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.”

This verse was recommended by Michael Sprague , Capitol Commission Chaplain.

This verse, spoken by Jesus, offers profound wisdom that applies to many areas of life, including business leadership. It serves as a reminder that, just as a branch cannot bear fruit unless it is connected to the vine, business leaders cannot achieve lasting success unless they remain connected to God. For Christian business leaders, John 15:5 presents the key to effective leadership, sustainable growth, and true success—staying rooted in Christ.

Here are several lessons and business concepts you can draw from John 15:5 and how they apply to leading organizations with purpose and faith.

1. Remain Connected to the Source of Wisdom

In business, leaders are often called upon to make decisions that impact the future of their companies. These decisions require wisdom, foresight, and discernment. John 15:5 teaches that the ultimate source of wisdom is not found in yourself, but in God. When Jesus says, “If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit,” He’s emphasizing the importance of staying connected to Him for guidance and wisdom.

As business leaders, you face pressures from all sides—markets, competition, stakeholders, and internal teams. The temptation is often to rely solely on your own experience and expertise. However, by remaining in Christ, you gain access to a higher level of wisdom, one that goes beyond human understanding.

Jon Gordon , a leadership expert, often discusses the importance of making great decisions. Gordon emphasizes that true leadership begins with humility and dependence on a set of values as the ultimate arbiter of decisions.

In moments of uncertainty, pause to seek God’s wisdom. Stay connected through prayer, Scripture, and reflection, allowing His guidance to direct your decisions. This connection will enable you to lead with clarity, insight, and confidence that goes beyond what the world offers.

2. Bear Fruit Through Kingdom Impact

The concept of bearing fruit in John 15:5 is a powerful one for business leaders. In the context of business, bearing fruit can refer to growth, profitability, innovation, and positive influence. However, this fruit must be sustainable and meaningful. Jesus makes it clear that true fruitfulness comes from being connected to Him, and the fruit that He speaks of has a Kingdom purpose.

For Christian business leaders, success is not just about financial gain or market share; it’s about creating a lasting impact for the Kingdom of God. Whether through ethical business practices, generosity, or investing in the development of employees, Kingdom-focused leaders are those who use their influence to advance God’s purposes.

David Green, the founder of Hobby Lobby, embodies this principle. Green consistently seeks to align his business with Kingdom values, whether by closing stores on Sundays to honor the Sabbath or by generously giving to charitable causes. His business bears fruit not just in terms of profitability but also in terms of eternal impact.

Consider what kind of fruit your business is bearing. Is it temporary, or does it have a lasting impact on the lives of your employees, customers, and community? Set goals that reflect not only financial growth but also Kingdom impact, and let that drive your leadership.

3. Watch the Danger of Self-Sufficiency

Jesus’ statement, “Apart from me, you can do nothing,” is a sobering reminder for business leaders who often feel the pressure to be self-sufficient. In a world that glorifies independence and self-reliance, this verse challenges the Christian leader to recognize their dependence on Christ.

Success in business can sometimes lead to pride and the false belief that you are the master of your own destiny. However, Jesus warns that without remaining connected to Him, your efforts will ultimately fail.

This truth is critical for CEOs and business owners who may feel the weight of the world on their shoulders. Running a company is demanding, and it’s easy to fall into the trap of thinking that the success of the organization depends solely on your leadership. However, John 15:5 reminds the Christian leader that real, lasting success is only possible when you are relying on Christ’s strength and not your own.

Reflect on areas in your business where you might be relying too much on your own understanding or effort. Surrender those areas to God and invite Him to be the center of your business decisions, strategies, and vision.

4. Collaboration with God

John 15:5 suggests a collaborative relationship between the branch and the vine. While you are dependent on Christ for everything, He also invites you to actively participate in His work. In business, this means that you are not passive recipients of God’s blessings; rather, you are called to co-labor with Him, applying the talents, skills, and opportunities He has given you.

As leaders, you must take responsibility for the work entrusted to you, while also acknowledging that it is God who ultimately brings the increase. This collaboration allows you to lead with both humility and confidence, knowing that we are working in partnership with the Creator of the universe.

CEO Experience (CXP) encourages CEOs to engage with God as a partner in their businesses. Our organization teaches that by inviting God into every area of leadership, CEOs can experience both divine guidance and personal fulfillment.

As you lead, consider how you can co-labor with God in your business. Recognize the gifts and talents He has given you and use them for His glory, while constantly seeking His direction and trusting Him for the results.

One More Second Step Comment

John 15:5 offers a foundational principle for Christian business leaders: remain connected to Christ, and you will bear much fruit. This connection enables you to access divine wisdom, bear Kingdom-oriented fruit, avoid the trap of self-sufficiency, and collaborate with God in your leadership roles. By staying rooted in Christ, you can lead your businesses with purpose, integrity, and a deep sense of fulfillment that goes beyond financial success.

As you reflect on your leadership journey, remember the truth of John 15:5: true success comes from abiding in Christ. Stay connected to the vine, and watch as God produces fruit in your business that will have a lasting impact on the world around you.

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