FIG TREES

When we plumb the depths of the following passage, truths concerning the difference between 'hearers' and 'doers' of the Word come to the fore ...

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. 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? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down. Luke 13:6-9 

The Fig Tree - the believer: 

An individual has been accepted into the family of God by grace, through faith (chosen, planted, supplied, and protected) ... You did not choose Me, but I chose you and appointed you that you should go and bear fruit and that your fruit should remain, that whatever you ask the Father in My name He may give you. (John 15:16)

The Owner - God: 

For three years the Master patiently observed a fig tree that possessed life, leaves, and every opportunity, yet bore nothing of value. His authority justifies action against it (privilege abused, will be privilege lost) ... My Spirit will not always strive with men. (Genesis 6:3) 

The Vinedresser - Christ: 
When someone in the church takes advantage of its resources but doesn't bear fruit, Jesus intercedes on his behalf until every opportunity for change is exhausted ... I do not pray that You should take them out of the world, but that You should keep them from the evil one. (John 17:15)

The lesson for every believer is that time is short and serving the Lord should be our natural response to His mercy and grace ... Be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves. (James 1:22)

When you stand before Christ one day, will you be ashamed because you bore little to no fruit for the Kingdom?