1. how we can learn eternal truths from observing nature.
“Organic Jesus”
A Sermon
Mini-Series
focusing on teachings
from Jesus on
how we can learn eternal truths from observing nature.

2. “Parable of and Cursing of
a Fig Tree”
* Luke 13: 1-9
* Matthew 21: 18-22

3. “Parable of the Barren Fig Tree” Background:
After having discussed
the importance of being watchful for God’s 2nd Coming in the End Times, Jesus reaffirms that all people need to repent in preparation for that time.

4. Luke 13: 1-9 * Parable of the Barren Fig Tree Key Parable Terms:
“Vineyard”
3 years & 1 year
Cutting down

5. to us when we are not fulfilling our created purpose.
This parable addresses the fact that our God is a gracious King who offers second chances (and sometimes 3rd and 4th chances)
to us when we are not fulfilling our created purpose.

6. Matthew 21: 18-22 * Cursing of the Barren Fig Tree
This event takes place the day after Palm Sunday and approximately 1 year after the “Parable of the Barren Fig Tree.”

7. The first “layer”
of this object lesson from Jesus that He wanted His disciples to absorb was the boundless potential that exists for them (and for us today) when prayers
are faith-filled.

8. The clear message that Jesus sends
The deeper “layer” of this object lesson lies in how the cursing of the fig tree connects to the parable of it.
The clear message that Jesus sends
to Jerusalem is this: “Your time is up.”

9. For years, Jesus has preached & demonstrated the importance of repentance… but that “grace period” has run out. Soon, Israel would be left “barren” by the Romans.

10. This story addresses the fact that our God is a just King who will hold accountable those who reject His gracious offer of
a second chance and salvation; since this gift is only available through repentance.

11. “Parable Patterns” 1.) A very clear hierarchy in authority
2.) A very real (but unseen) “clock”
3.) A very certain final day of judgment

12. That purpose begins with first mending
God longs for us to have “fruitful” lives, ones that fulfill the purpose for which
He created us.
That purpose begins with first mending
the most important fence… repenting of our owns sins.

13. Remember… 1.) In this hierarchy of authority,
God is in charge and we are not.
2.) God sees the “clock”, not us.
3.) God knows when our time will end,
we truly do not.

14. 2 Corinthians 6: 1-2 1 “As God’s co-workers, we urge you
not to receive God’s grace in vain.
2 For He says,
‘In the time of my favor I heard you,     and in the day of salvation
I helped you.’
I tell you, now is the time of God’s favor, now is the day of salvation.”