Lessons From a Fig Tree
Google Images One of the favourite questions people ask is why Jesus cursed the fig tree (Matthew 21:18-22). I dug up the notes from the Life of Christ class I took in seminary many years ago, hunted up the section having to do with the fig tree and had a “duh” moment. Context is vitally important—no less so in this famous story. Jesus approaches the fig tree because He is hungry, only to discover that there is nothing by leaves on the tree, And we know the rest. But we seldom focus on the answer Jesus gave to Peter when he asked why the fig tree had withered so quickly (Mark 11:19-25). In the story in Mark, the writer records that Jesus’ first words in response to the question were, “ Have faith in God .” Jesus’ message was that only faith in God could do the impossible: like wither a fig tree, or move a mountain. Jesus says, “ If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer ” (Matthew 21:22). I’m sure the Lord wasn't expecting the disciples to go around moving...