Every branch] refers primarily to individual Christians; yet what is said applies also to Churches (Revelation 2:5; Revelation 3:16). Taketh away] yet not finally till the Last Judgment. Purgeth] RV 'cleanseth,' or, still better, 'pruneth.' The reference is (1) to the disciphne of sorrow, disappointment, temptation, and trial, by which the saints are perfected (Hebrews 12:6; Revelation 3:19 cp. Hebrews 5:8); (2) to the cutting off of the superfluities, ambitions, luxuries, and worldly pleasures and lusts, which hinder the Christian life (Galatians 5:24; Galatians 6:14; James 1:21).

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