15:2

Jesus noted, "Every branch in Me that does not bear fruit, He takes away"

Elmer Town gives various interpretations and then his own conclusion.

"Theologians debate the identity of the unfruitful branch that is apparently cast away.

First some say it represents the true believer apostatizing. Armenians make reference to this passage to claim that Christians who do not abide in Christ are taken from Him, and their salvation is lost.

Second, those who believer in eternal security interpret the unfruitful branch as one who merely professes Christianity, but who was never truly united to Christ.

Third, others interpret this passage with a primary emphasis on fruit bearing, not salvation.

Fourth, the probable solution in seen in the word airei (takes away). This word is the root for resurrection (to take up). The focus here is fruit bearing; the vinedressser does not cut away a vine because it has no fruit but gently lifts it up to the sun so it has an opportunity to bear fruit. The first step of Christ in not judgment but encouragement."

The Gospel of John,Believe and Live, Elmer Towns p 150-151