Did you ever question why the Lord said to a fig tree, having no figs, “No man eat fruit of thee hereafter forever”, when it was in the Spring time and not the harvest time of figs? (Mark 11:13-14). I did until My wife and I planted a fig tree and saw its very unusual habit of fruit bearing. It then became apparent and I saw the meaning of Jesus’ symbolic action and its application to the nation and to all who have had the privilege of hearing the Word of God.

The fig tree produces fruit on new growth. Its major production is in the Fall on the new growth of the Spring and Summer. In the early Spring time it puts on leaves and just a few figs on the limited new growth of last years late Fall. Jesus knew it was not the time of harvest, but, having leaves, the fig tree should have had a few figs to eat. In the time of harvest there would be no figs; they would have been harvested. The leaves told of figs . There were none. There is a responsibility when God”s Word comes to us and we have a profession of faith (leaves). And if no fruit one loses the opportunity. We become like the cursed fig tree. The fig tree in the instant case next day was dried up from the roots. Mark 11: 20.

I agree with Martin Luther that good works (fruit) in the Bible is giving to and helping one’s neighbor who is in need. “For all the law is fulfilled even in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbor as thyself” ( Gal. 5:14). The Christian believer’s love includes even an enemy as a neighbor. The Lord says, “Love your enemies, bless them that curse you, do good to them that hate you, and pray for them that despitefully use you, and persecute you” (Matt. 5:44). This kind of love is present only in the life of Christ within the believer. It is not present in mere professors of Christianity who do not have the life of Christ (leaves only- no fruit). See 1 John. 3:14-24.