John 15 - NIV God’s Justice Bible

15:12–17 Chosen to Bear Fruit Jesus’ love for his disciples is expressed in two ways: he chooses them and he lays down his life for them. Jesus’ choice does not indicate that they gain an elite status, but rather that they have the responsibility to bear fruit. That fruit, as the rest of the passage indicates, refers to all in the life of a disciple that expresses loving obedience to God, glorifies him and depends on prayer. It relates to one’s character, how one relates to others and how through one’s life others are drawn to Jesus.

15:18–16:4 Be Warned Jesus’ followers will experience the same hatred previously directed against him. The antagonism stems from a refusal to know God as revealed in his Son. This opposition is no surprise to Jesus, nor should it be to his disciples. Why does it surprise us today? Opposition will not be eliminated. The disciples are told in advance so their faith is not shaken by it.