In Luke 13:6-9, Jesus gives us a parable, which I dissect here because it is recorded to make an impact within us. It is good to know that in the remainder of Luke 13, we find Jesus explaining God’s yearning for his people, that there is a way to salvation, and that healing is available for those who need it. He also warns of limits to tolerance, wrong paths that lead to suffering, and pain resulting from a broken humanity.
Here is the parable, verse by verse…
A man had a fig tree growing in his vineyard, and he went to look for fruit on it but did not find any. You are the tree. By your nature, you are supposed to produce (look through the Bible to find out what sort of spiritual fruit is the byproduct of the indwelling of the Spirit). You are not producing.
So he said to the man who took care of the vineyard, ‘For three years now I’ve been coming to look for fruit on this fig tree and haven’t found any. God is interested in your well being and keeps a watch over you. He also provides ample opportunity for you to produce (does not give up on us in the first year).
Cut it down! There is a limit to God’s mercy. Justice must also be satisfied. Produce or perish.
Why should it use up the soil?’ Your failures (sins) are not isolated to you alone. Sin’s effect extends beyond you and affects those whose paths you cross.
“ ‘Sir,’ the man replied, ‘leave it alone for one more year, and I’ll dig around it and fertilize it. God provides for you chances beyond what you deserve and ample resources to produce. You have everything needed to succeed in God’s economy. Your failure or success is your own and not someone else’s fault.
If it bears fruit next year, fine! If not, then cut it down.’ There is an ultimate judgement that places you in God’s favor and presence or casts you away. The criteria is clear and the end result is known in advance.
Plug into God’s power. Take advantage of His resources. Produce good fruit in keeping with what has been given you. It is the right and natural result of who you are.
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