Two Lessons in One Tree

Mt. 21:21-22

And Jesus answered them, "Truly, I say to you, if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what has been done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, 'Be taken up and thrown into the sea,' it will happen. And whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith."

While walking with His disciples toward Jerusalem, Jesus became hungry. Noticing a fig tree, He went to find figs but found only lush, thick, green leaves. Because of its lack of fruit, the tree was cursed and immediately withered and died. What did this mean? Why would he do this just as He was entering Jerusalem? Could it be that He was making a point about certain people (Pharisees and Scribes) who appear lush and full with righteousness, but actually have no true spiritual fruit. In essence, people like this are not fulfilling their God-given design and a certain judgment awaits them. This incident provides a warning to all to examine the condition of their spiritual tree. Am I fruitful? Am I satisfied with just looking as I think that I should without really having the fruit of abiding in Christ?

I notice in the account that the disciples did not even question the why but only the how. They were concerned with the power that could wither a tree instantly. To answer their question, Jesus said that it was dependent on faith without doubt. With this kind of faith trees could be withered and mountains moved...whatever you ask in prayer, you will receive, if you have faith. No doubt this was the lesson for them since they would be carrying on after Jesus was crucified, resurrected, and ascended back into heaven. How would they survive? How would they know what to do? It would only be through prayer, prayer based on and energized by faith. Where would this faith come? Faith is a gift of grace given by the Father to His children, and this Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God. Jesus would give His disciples the Holy Spirit who would bring all things to their remembrance. All that Jesus had said and taught them would come to them through the person of the Spirit. In fact, the Spirit would clarify and apply His words to their hearts and lives. He would grow their faith into a life that was fruitful and flourishing. 

Father,

Fill me with Your words so that I might produce much fruit and grow a faith that is honoring to You. Thank You for these gifts and for choosing me to be Your child.

In Jesus name,

Amen