Dear Explorer,
Read Matthew 21:18-20
And
Read Mark 11:12-14
And
Read Mark 11:20-21
So, what's the story in your own words?
Jesus was hungry and went to a fig tree that had leaves but no fruit. He cursed it and it died. Short story!
Every time I have heard this passage taught, the emphasis has been on the next verses, and not this part. But I want us to stop and ask some questions. Why did Jesus curse the fig tree in the first place?
Because it wasn't bearing fruit.
Does that have anything to say to us?
I think so. There are other parables that we have looked at that says if you are not bearing fruit, you will be pulled up and tossed away. Does Jesus take seriously what He teaches? Yes! Essentially, He was saying if you are not bearing fruit, then why are you taking up space and water and sunshine and nutrients? You have no purpose for existence if you are not doing what God has called you to do.
Do you remember a few days ago, we talked about Jesus cleansing the temple AGAIN and the fact that the Jewish leaders had not changed after 3 years of Jesus' teaching and ministry? I want to say clearly that if you are not growing and changing and becoming more like Jesus – you need to check and see if you are “alive”. When Jesus is in control of our lives, there will be change and growth and life.
What does “bearing fruit” for a follower of Jesus mean to you?
Some followers would say it is leading others to Jesus. And I agree. But I believe that it is bigger than that. Bearing fruit for me means making sure that my roots are drawing up nourishment from God's Word (the Bible). It means walking in obedience to what the Holy Spirit is instructing and teaching me and saying no to SELF. I believe that fruit is being produced in my life when I chose to do what's right and refuse to do what's wrong. I believe that fruit is being produced when others can see a change in my behavior. I believe that fruit is being produced in me when I grow and become what God has planned for me. And I believe that fruit is produced when I can encourage and love all people. And Galatians 5:22-23 gives us a list of fruit that we should see in our lives when the Holy Spirit is in charge.
Are you producing fruit?