Matthew tells us that it was early in the
morning that Jesus and His disciples were making their way back from Bethany to
Jerusalem. And "as He returned to the city, He was hungry" (v. 18).
Since they stayed at Bethany, it would be safe to assume that Jesus and His
disciples spent the night at the home of His dear friends Martha, Mary and
Lazarus. And if that's the case, you certainly would think that Martha would
have made sure everyone was well-fed before they left. But for whatever reason,
it seems that they made the journey without breakfast.
Perhaps Jesus' hunger was
intentional. Perhaps it was so that He could teach this object lesson to His disciples.
As they journeyed along toward the city, Jesus saw a fig tree by the side of
the road. Jesus came to the fig tree—covered with the promise of
fruit—expecting to be able to pick some of these smaller “figlets” and satisfy
His hunger.
But Matthew tells us that, when He
came to the tree, "He found nothing on it but leaves" (v. 19). It had
all the promise of fruitfulness—all the appearance of bearing something He
desired. But on closer examination, it had only the outward appearance of 'fruitfulness'
. . . and bore none of the fruit.
Why Did Jesus
Curse the Fig Tree?
1. It was living a
falsehood/double life
2. Attractive but
unproductive
Conclusion
A..
From far this tree looked like it had some fruits on it. It had all the signs
of fruitfulness.
a. It had the height.
b. it was green
b. It had several branches.
c. And as the text says, it
was filled with leaves - no doubt it was green and looked rosy.
B. Like many Christians who look like they are truly living for God.
a. They wear the right
clothing.
b. They quote Scriptures.
b. know when to says amen.
c. They are churchy
d.
They are at church religiously every Sunday.
But a close look at their lives will
reveal something else.
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