Knowing The Word in Luke 13:6-9

The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

13:6 And he told this parable: “A man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. 7 And he said to the vinedresser, ‘Look, for three years now I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and I find none. Cut it down. Why should it use up the ground?’ 8 And he answered him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and put on manure. 9 Then if it should bear fruit next year, well and good; but if not, you can cut it down.’”

Comments

This parable, symbolizing Israel’s last chance to repent before God’s judgment, brings together two themes: the need for repentance and God’s slowness to punish. The fig tree, by virtue of being in a vineyard, is in good, fertile soil. After three years, the tree is well established, and should be bearing fruit. However, there is no indication it will ever bear fruit, and it is taking up room where a productive tree can be planted. The vinedresser, who is grace personified, counsels the owner, who is the judgment of God personified, patience. The vinedresser will take no initiative in destruction but says the owner can cut is down after an extended period of grace. The fact that evil is not punished here and now does not mean that God approves of what sinners do. It means that God is merciful and patient.

Application

God shows us mercy and patience out of the character of his being. Are mercy and patience part of your character?

Prayer

Make me, O Lord, more merciful and patient today when it comes to others. Where I see injustice, however, give me the courage to speak the truth in love.