This word is figuratively used of Christ (Zech. 3:8), of Israel (Isa. 60:21; Rom. 11:17), the king of Babylon (Satan) (Isa. 14:19), the righteous (Prov. 11:28), and outward disciples of Christ, both true and false (John 15). The figure in John denotes profession, an outward relationship on earth conditional on fruit bearing, not union with Christ (which is in heaven, where there is neither pruning nor purging). The “branch” may or may not have eternal life, the proof on earth is the fruit. In Rom. 11 The figure is used dispensationally as to Jew and Gentile, the former being cut off, and the latter grafted in, who will, however, in their turn be cut off if they continue not in God’s goodness.