“branch” (klema) may imply that it refers to the person who did not abide in the vine at the outset (NIC, p. 671, n. 17). Possibly it could be a reference to Judas Iscariot (cf. John 17:12). The indefiniteness of subject that characterizes the passive verb exēranthē (“withers” NIV) and the use of the plural “branches” in the second part of the sentence indicate Jesus’ intent to show that fruitfulness is normal for believers. An absolutely fruitless life is prima facie evidence that one is not a believer.