Word@Work 128 - Mark 11:12-14
Published: Wed, 05/21/08
Word@Work from BeaconLight
Read Mark 11:12-14 The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig-tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. Then he said to the tree, "May no-one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard him say it. (NIV)
This episode is in two parts. We read the first bit today; and its sequel is in verses 20-21, sandwiching (and amplifying) the account of the cleansing of the temple. It is really a parable, acted out, to show Jesus' power and authority to judge. Just before Passover, in March/April, fig trees should have green edible buds: these were not the figs that would be harvested later in the year. But they made a tasty snack - and were evidence that the tree would bear its full fruit in a few month's time. Jesus stopped to inspect the tree, it looked healthy, the leaves were rich and green ... but there were no tasty green buds at all. That tree was not 'fit for purpose'.
When Jesus cursed it, He demonstrated how His judgement would fall on Israel. Like the tree, His people looked fine, but were unproductive for God's kingdom. There comes a point when there are no more chances, and when Jesus cursed the tree, His word alone was enough to sap the life out of it. And that is what will happen to all who refuse to receive God's Christ!
As the disciples were intended to overhear, so are we. We need to understand that Jesus will judge powerfully, and when He speaks, it is always done. The outcome for the fig tree was to prove disastrous. So it will be, for all those who show no sign of spiritual fruit - no evidence of God's indwelling Spirit. That is why we are called to be Gospel people, men and women with the message of how to be saved from the wrath to come. Such Gospel proclamation is evidence that we, ourselves, have been convicted of sin and righteousness and judgement. As St Paul says, "Knowing the fear of the Lord we persuade others ..." 2 Cor 5:11 ESV). It is a responsibility we cannot ignore.
Prayer: Holy God, I know that Jesus has the right and the power to judge all sinners - that is why I have come to Him for salvation. Thank you that others can hear the good news that will save them from the dreadful judgement, and that you have given me the privilege to tell them. Please be my helper as I do so. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
You can read more of this Bible passage online - in English and other languages - share the Bible with your friends!
This episode is in two parts. We read the first bit today; and its sequel is in verses 20-21, sandwiching (and amplifying) the account of the cleansing of the temple. It is really a parable, acted out, to show Jesus' power and authority to judge. Just before Passover, in March/April, fig trees should have green edible buds: these were not the figs that would be harvested later in the year. But they made a tasty snack - and were evidence that the tree would bear its full fruit in a few month's time. Jesus stopped to inspect the tree, it looked healthy, the leaves were rich and green ... but there were no tasty green buds at all. That tree was not 'fit for purpose'.
When Jesus cursed it, He demonstrated how His judgement would fall on Israel. Like the tree, His people looked fine, but were unproductive for God's kingdom. There comes a point when there are no more chances, and when Jesus cursed the tree, His word alone was enough to sap the life out of it. And that is what will happen to all who refuse to receive God's Christ!
As the disciples were intended to overhear, so are we. We need to understand that Jesus will judge powerfully, and when He speaks, it is always done. The outcome for the fig tree was to prove disastrous. So it will be, for all those who show no sign of spiritual fruit - no evidence of God's indwelling Spirit. That is why we are called to be Gospel people, men and women with the message of how to be saved from the wrath to come. Such Gospel proclamation is evidence that we, ourselves, have been convicted of sin and righteousness and judgement. As St Paul says, "Knowing the fear of the Lord we persuade others ..." 2 Cor 5:11 ESV). It is a responsibility we cannot ignore.
Prayer: Holy God, I know that Jesus has the right and the power to judge all sinners - that is why I have come to Him for salvation. Thank you that others can hear the good news that will save them from the dreadful judgement, and that you have given me the privilege to tell them. Please be my helper as I do so. In Jesus' Name, Amen.
You can read more of this Bible passage online - in English and other languages - share the Bible with your friends!
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