MPV Commentary

The Lesson, "REPENT OR Perish," Suggested by Two Recent Incidents, and Illustrated by the Parable of the Barren Fig Tree.

These Galileans were possibly followers of Judas of Galilee, who had led a rebellion against Roman rule about twenty years earlier. They had been drawn to his cause in large numbers, but after he was killed, they dispersed. At this time, their movement would have been at its peak. When Pilate ordered the execution of these Galileans while they were offering sacrifices, it seemed like their blood was being mingled with their offerings. This event was brought to Jesus' attention, and He used it as an opportunity to clarify His views on such tragedies.

Jesus pointed out that these men were not examples of God's judgment, as people might have thought. Instead, every unrepentant sinner – including those who had not yet repented – would face a similar fate. This was not just a reference to the impending destruction of Jerusalem but also a warning about a more severe and personal kind of perdition.

A tower in Siloam fell, but nothing is known about it. Jesus then used the parable of the barren fig tree to illustrate His point. The fig tree represents Israel or the visible Church of God, which was expected to bear fruit for God's glory. A vineyard, carefully cultivated and separated from surrounding fields, is a spot chosen for its fertility.

When the owner comes looking for fruit, He expects to see the results of a heart turned to God, bearing the fruits of righteousness. This is in line with Jesus' own words about expecting fruit from His followers (Matthew 21:33-34) and God's expectation that Israel would bring forth fruit (Isaiah 5:2).

The owner waited three years for the tree to produce fruit, which is a sufficient period for a fig tree to grow. This delay may also allude to Jesus' own ministry, but this is uncertain.

When the owner decides to cut down the tree because it's not producing any fruit, He uses strong language. The tree is not only failing to produce good results but is also wasting space and resources. In response, Christ, as Intercessor, suggests that the tree be given more time to produce fruit by loosening the earth around it and enriching it with manure.

This change in approach indicates a willingness to try new methods in spiritual cultivation, even for those who have been unfruitful for a long time. However, if genuine repentance comes too late, it will not be enough to save them (Luke 23:42-43). In the end, those who remain fruitless after being given every opportunity will face a just and final perdition (Proverbs 1:24-31; Ezekiel 24:13).