What is the purpose of purging mentioned in John 15:2?

The purpose of purging, as mentioned in John 15:2, primarily relates to fruit bearing. In this context, Jesus uses the metaphor of a vine and its branches to illustrate the relationship between Himself and His followers. The act of purging refers to the process of cleansing or trimming the branches so that they can produce more fruit. This signifies that God actively works in the lives of believers to remove anything that might hinder their spiritual productivity and growth.

The concept of purging emphasizes the idea that fruitfulness—spiritual outcomes such as love, joy, and good works—is essential in a believer's life. A branch that produces fruit is one that is actively connected to the vine (Jesus), and through purging, the quality and quantity of the fruit can improve. Thus, the focus on fruit bearing underscores God's desire for His followers to not only remain in Him but also to flourish and contribute positively to the Kingdom of God, which is central to the teaching found in this verse.