Order Of Service

Luke 13:6-9

(6) He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. (7) Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? (8) And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: (9) And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.

Introduction

This parable is easy to understand; yet, it is powerful in its many theological implications. Today, we will focus only on one of the principles inherent in the parable: the principle of the long suffering of God. Remember, a sermon is about one thing.

In the corner of the vineyard, protected by it walls and nourished by its specially-prepared soil, a fig tree was planted. For two years, after a reasonable time for maturation, the owner of the vineyard had come eagerly expecting to see fruit. On the third year, his patience had come to an end, and the gardener was instructed to cut it down. The gardener pleaded with the owner to give the tree one more year. The owner complied with the gardener’s request, and the tree was spared. (I have five points, so I will move expeditiously. So, please stay with me.)   

Exposition

1. Great Expectations.

2. Gross Failure.

3. Grave Consequences.

4. Grand Plea For Patience And Mercy.

5. Grace Period Provided.

Closing Thoughts

A saying in our oral tradition comes to mind: “I wasn’t fit to live, and I wasn’t prepared to die; thank God for saving me. Now, I am fit to live, and now, I am prepared to die. I’m glad I got my religion in time. Now, I got heaven on my mind!” Perhaps they were alluding to this parable. As long as the blood is running warm in our veins, we can get it right with God. This fig tree was given a second chance. As the young folk say, “Let’s keep it real. Let’s keep it 100 percent real.”  Most of us need more than “one” second chance. Most of us need a “whole bunch” of second chances. Our God is truly a God of second chances. However, please remember, there will be a “final” second chance. Please get it right before the final second chance. Give God Glory! Give God All The Glory!

Related Scripture

2^nd Peter 3:9

End Note

According to Moses in Deuteronomy 8:8, fig trees were among the seven crops of the “good land.” Figs were eaten fresh, dried into cakes, used as a sweetener, and made into a poultice for boils.

According to the Law of Moses recorded in Leviticus 19:23-25, the first three years of fruit production was not to be eaten, because it was considered unclean. The fruit of the fourth year was not to be eaten, because it was to be dedicated to God as an offering. The fruit of the fifth year was the first harvest for human consumption.  The impatient owner was looking for the process to start, because he knew he had to wait until the fifth harvest to enjoy the figs.

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