Introduction
In our previous conclusion on the sermon prayer of faith, we were ushered in to know that God is seeking men full of the Holy Spirit, which brings the aspect of repentance as a people of God. The parable of the fig tree introduces us on the need to be fruitful. Jesus uses the stories of two catastrophes to stress the importance of repentance. He continues this train of thought and gives the reason why repentance is vital in this parable of an unfruitful fig tree.
As brothers and sisters we need to know that God is willing and ready to give us another chance to turn to Him;
A. We are privileged (Psalm 100:3)
Planted in the vineyard (v. 6) it was chosen, planted, supplied, and protected. Such is the privilege of every chosen one. “I have chosen you, and ordained you, that you should bring forth fruit” (John 15:16). You are the Lord’s planting, and in the place of blessing has He put you “by the rivers of water” (Psa. 1:3).
B. Understand the purpose (Psalm 57:2)
God works all things, including our life, according to his purposes. Nothing can happen without God ordaining it.
The sole responsibility of the tree was to bear fruit. The barren fig tree was a problem for the owner of the vineyard. It was taking up space. That space could have been used for another tree, another plant, something that would bear fruit and bring prosperity to the owner. As it was, the fig tree was using the ground, the soil,
and the vinedresser’s time that could be better used elsewhere. After all, what good is a fig tree without figs? Should he not cut it down and use the resources for some other purpose?
C. Production (Psalm 27:4)
To inquire(other version say seek) in the Hebrew was an agricultural term; it meant “to plough” to carefully turn over the soil, removing rocks and weeds to ensure that the crop will grow well and produce good fruit. So it seems a good practice to carefully consider our lives and reflect on what we are doing well and what might be changed for the better. The dung or fertilizer is applied to the plant for it to produce.
Lessons to learn
1. Borrowed time is not permanent. God’s patience has a limit. In the parable, the vineyard owner grants another year of life to the tree. In the same way, God in His mercy grants us another day, another hour, another breath
(Isaiah 55:6-7).
2. God expects a fruit from us.
3. It is most dangerous think to be unfruitful under great religious privileges.
Reflection
Are we fruitful or unfruitful? What is God seeing in us day after day? Let us change (repent) so that He may see
in us a fruit.
Rev. Enock Mbayi: Centre Associate Pastor
LORD, GIVE ME ONE MORE CHANCE (LUKE 13:6-9)
