15:1–17 The union of Christ the Mediator and His redeemed people is portrayed in Scripture in a variety of ways. These portrayals work together in explaining the nature of this relationship. There is: (a) the foundation and the building (1 Cor. 3:11; Eph. 2:20–22); (b) the vine and the branches (15:1–17; Rom. 6:5); (c) the head and the body (1 Cor. 6:15, 19; 12:12; Eph. 1:22, 23; 4:15, 16); (d) the husband and the wife (Rom. 7:4; Eph. 5:31, 32; Rev. 19:7); (e) Adam and his descendants (Rom. 5:12, 18–21; 1 Cor. 15:22, 45, 49). The comparison with vine and branches indicates an organic union and a relation of complete dependence.