Paula Fether Supporter Lifelong student of the scriptures

It seems most likely that this was an object lesson on at least two levels.

One, for the disciples to see once again that Jesus was no ordinary man, especially given his impending death and resurrection. This demonstration of the power of faith would be instrumental in the birth of the church at Pentecost.

Two, for the nation of Israel, who had produced no fruit in season and were about to be exiled yet again, within a generation (40 years) after their rejection of the Messiah.

September 22 2024 • 2 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Tim Maas Supporter Retired Quality Assurance Specialist with the U.S. Army

I would only add that the fact that there were leaves on the tree (although no fruit) was indicative of the false outward show of religion in which Israel was engaging.

September 22 2024 • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report

Jeffrey Johnson Supporter

Why did Jesus ruin the fig tree (Matthew 21:19)?

In Matthew 21:19, Jesus curses the fig tree to make a symbolic, visual statement about the spiritual barrenness and hypocrisy of the religious leaders in Jerusalem. The incident is a "prophetic parable" or a sign-act, not a random outburst of anger toward a tree. 

This is an interesting scripture. The reason why I say that is because I lived in the Middle East for 3 1/2 years and saw fig trees with leaves, but behind the leaves there were tiny figs, and when I asked some about this [because I knew the scripture Matt 21:19] I was told that a fig tree always has fruit on it with some figs growing behind the leaves.

In Mark's Gospel, Jesus approached the tree because it was covered in leaves, a sign that it should have been bearing fruit. But he found only leaves, not a single fig. Likewise, the Jewish religious authorities had the outward appearance of righteousness—many public religious practices—but were inwardly fruitless and corrupt. The fig leaves symbolise this false pretence.

Conclusion:

By causing the tree to wither, Jesus provides his disciples with an object lesson on the need to have faith in God. As he states, "All the things you pray and ask for have faith that you have practically received, and you will have them." What an important lesson for them to learn, especially in view of the awesome tests that are soon to come! Yet, there is another connection between the withering of the fig tree and the quality of faith.

The nation of Israel, like this fig tree, has a deceptive appearance. Although the country is in a covenant relationship with God and may outwardly appear to observe his regulations, it has proved to be without faith, barren of good fruitage. Because of a lack of faith, it is even in the process of rejecting God's own Son! Hence, by causing the unproductive fig tree to wither, Jesus is graphically demonstrating what the result will be for this fruitless, faithless nation.

1 day ago • 0 responses • Vote Up • Share • Report