Jesus likened Himself to the vine-stem, and the disciples to being branches.  A vineyard that produces no grapes is worthless, and branches which do not fruit well are useless to the farmer.  Without a strong connection between the branches and the vine, the harvest will fail.  The consequence is that branches which have demonstrated that they are not fit for purpose will be removed and burned.  This vivid picture is also used by Jesus to describe the eternal destiny of false prophets who do Jesus-things but do not know Jesus (Matthew 7:15-23); and all who willingly do evil (Matthew 13:37-42).

After Judas Iscariot left the Last Supper, Jesus impressed on the remaining disciples that they must stay close to Him.  He kept saying, “Remain in me”.  John used ‘remain’ 11 times in this chapter (John 15:4-16) and 40 times in this Gospel.  Why is it so important to remain close to Jesus?  Without being joined to Him in loving relationship, nothing of His life and power could go to them, they would never be able to produce spiritual fruit, and they would be eternally rejected from His kingdom.
 
Spiritually, some Christians think that they are independent adults and have a right to go their own way.  Not so!  We are always children of God and need to stay close to Him, not being forced by some discipline but drawn by a deep inner desire.  In order to demonstrate the love of Jesus, we must receive it daily.  The only people who can share the peace of Jesus are those who let His peace rule in their hearts (Colossians 3:15).  We cannot introduce people to Jesus if we are far away from Him.  

The fruit God is seeking for us is both a multiplication of believers and transformed characters.  These glorify God, also becoming attractive spiritual magnets which encourage others to seek Him as well.  Is that how you want to be?  It is certainly the Lord’s purpose for you!  So, if you are close to Him, do not allow yourself to drift away; and if your love for Him has grown weak, ask Him for a refreshed desire to be very close to Him again.  Then let Him do His work in you and through you.  It will glorify God, bless others and bring you much joy.