Note 46 at Joh 15:1: This parable repeats a familiar theme of growth common to many of Jesus' teachings (see note 1 at Mt 13:31 and note 2 at Mr 4:31). Joh 15:2 speaks of "fruit," then "more fruit," and finally in Joh 15:5 and 8, "much fruit." There is no shortcut to bearing much fruit. We must grow (1Pe 2:2).