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Show me in the NT where Deut. 28 is repeatet for the believers today.
That God is giving blessings is no question.
But if you Really claim Deut 28 for us today, then you must carry today also the consequences of disobiediens to the law which is
given in the same Book.
So you follow and hold the law which God has given Moses?
That God is giving blessings is no question.
But if you Really claim Deut 28 for us today, then you must carry today also the consequences of disobiediens to the law which is
given in the same Book.
So you follow and hold the law which God has given Moses?
Amazing how you take the obvious and make it into a roadblock.
You make the point of Jesus in those verses i posted.
"This kind only comes out through prayer and fasting"
IOW,you got to " go to bat" for them.
Fight for those not healed.
Make the thing go.
Make it GO.
We sit back as believers. Say a little faithless prayer. Faithless because we don't take the time to get those healing verses in our minds and spirit.
Then,ON THAT BASIS, along with the authority we have,change the lives of OTHERS.
Sacrifice our time,and lives,as did Jesus and the apostles,to help those in need.
It takes radical "Jesus freaks" to get the infirmed healed.
Kinda like it did back then.
Radical men and women totally blown out for Jesus,doing like Jesus did in his earthly ministry.
Ho hum armchair safety zone back seat nominal believers pray hit and miss no faith prayers.
Then when it flops go through modifying of the Bible to cover for their own apathy and disdain for the power they unwittingly reject.
You make the point of Jesus in those verses i posted.
"This kind only comes out through prayer and fasting"
IOW,you got to " go to bat" for them.
Fight for those not healed.
Make the thing go.
Make it GO.
We sit back as believers. Say a little faithless prayer. Faithless because we don't take the time to get those healing verses in our minds and spirit.
Then,ON THAT BASIS, along with the authority we have,change the lives of OTHERS.
Sacrifice our time,and lives,as did Jesus and the apostles,to help those in need.
It takes radical "Jesus freaks" to get the infirmed healed.
Kinda like it did back then.
Radical men and women totally blown out for Jesus,doing like Jesus did in his earthly ministry.
Ho hum armchair safety zone back seat nominal believers pray hit and miss no faith prayers.
Then when it flops go through modifying of the Bible to cover for their own apathy and disdain for the power they unwittingly reject.
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Ahh, the classic "Thorn in the flesh" of Paul that so many interpret at sickness. Let's just say that, in American English, if I ever write, you are such a "pain in the neck", does that literally mean you are a sickness that is afflicting my neck too? 
But the term thorn in the flesh refers to people, and let the bible interpret the bible here Numbers 33:55
`But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then it shall come about that those whom you let remain of them will become as pricks in your eyes and as thorns in your sides, and they will trouble you in the land in which you live.
As I have pointed out, there are verses that promised healing, its really our own personal interpretation, which as I have said to Angela, comes from the church we are from, the christian background we have, etc, that will result in different interpretations, try Psalms 103, Hebrews 13:8.
But at this time, let us agree to disagree since I understand that, at this modern age, its far easier to believe that "your sins are forgiven' compared to 'rise get up and walk'. You don't need to show physical proof of the former, while the latter, there are always people who "seem" not to be healed after you pray in faith. If you don't believe physical healing is part of what Jesus done for you in the cross, its fine, you are still a Christian.
But the term thorn in the flesh refers to people, and let the bible interpret the bible here Numbers 33:55
`But if you do not drive out the inhabitants of the land from before you, then it shall come about that those whom you let remain of them will become as pricks in your eyes and as thorns in your sides, and they will trouble you in the land in which you live.
As I have pointed out, there are verses that promised healing, its really our own personal interpretation, which as I have said to Angela, comes from the church we are from, the christian background we have, etc, that will result in different interpretations, try Psalms 103, Hebrews 13:8.
But at this time, let us agree to disagree since I understand that, at this modern age, its far easier to believe that "your sins are forgiven' compared to 'rise get up and walk'. You don't need to show physical proof of the former, while the latter, there are always people who "seem" not to be healed after you pray in faith. If you don't believe physical healing is part of what Jesus done for you in the cross, its fine, you are still a Christian.
oh please with the classic thorn in the flesh
if there is one expression I do not like it would the CLASSIC
'let's agree to disagree'
whatever and disappointed in your response. no proof for what you believe, yet plenty of proof in scripture for the other version
people die of sickness, disease and accidents every single day...Christians...that is the world we live in
how about THIS classic response to your position:
'even Jesus didn't heal everybody'
and then the classic response to that one:
Jesus did not do many miracles in a certain town because the people did not have enough faith
round and round and round we go, with the usual objections all in tow
7
this is the type of response that reasons to itself why people are not healed
also typical of the WOF position
and the type of answer that makes me go 'grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr' because it is not from scripture and blames the person
also typical of WOF.
so I guess you are WOF. I thought from some of your responses you were a little more reasonable
also typical of the WOF position
and the type of answer that makes me go 'grrrrrrrrrrrrrrrr' because it is not from scripture and blames the person
also typical of WOF.
so I guess you are WOF. I thought from some of your responses you were a little more reasonable
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can you read?
people were healed all through the OT and Jesus healed hundreds if not thousands (we do not know about) BEFORE the crucifixion
so would you have like them to slit Jesus throat instead? like they did/do with lambs?
I can't stand it
you need to do some historical research as to what actually happened with Jesus and how the Romans treated prisoners
I would bang my head on the nearest wall, but my husband just painted them
7
A doctrine that says "God loves you so much, and hates sickness so much, that it is always his will to heal you" is considered to be false and is deceiving believers?
How little you regard God's love for you when even the pagans would regard their own children in a likewise manner (Matthew 7:11)
How little you regard God's love for you when even the pagans would regard their own children in a likewise manner (Matthew 7:11)
yes. God loves us so much He sent His Son to die on our behalf
God hates sin
Sin is what God hates
this world is seeped in sin.
how little you have regard for scripture
and now my anger is showing because I hate this false doctrine and the way WOF'ers defend it
if they cannot make headway misquoting scripture and taking it out of context, what do they do?
THEY ATTACK THE PERSON
yay! let's hear it for the classical ad hominum attack!
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I am not under law, but under Grace. Without Grace nobody from us would be saved!
If you consider you are under law, then you are guilty to fulfill the law.
You spread destructive false teaching in claimes the blessings of Deut. 28, and deny the Curse.
You Take what you want from the scripture for to defend your view. Believe it, but dont deceive others with false teachings.
Its your responsibility.
If you consider you are under law, then you are guilty to fulfill the law.
You spread destructive false teaching in claimes the blessings of Deut. 28, and deny the Curse.
You Take what you want from the scripture for to defend your view. Believe it, but dont deceive others with false teachings.
Its your responsibility.
Note: The majority of scripture content was taken from the New King James Version (NKJV)
Here is my reason why I do not agree with you. To begin, one should look within the context that the scripture was written, including scripture before and after the lesson or miracle.
I find that Jesus is often looked at by people and even professed Christians in his human form (manifestation of flesh) only. So, when examining the events of Jesus, they project themselves into His place applying their own personal experiences to explain the actions of our Lord Jesus Christ. The problem is that they forget the deity of Jesus Christ, in that every aspect He is God.
Considering the deity of Jesus, He would have already known that the fig tree did not have fruit on it. Thus, if Jesus already knew that it did not have fruit, why did He want to make the disciples aware that it did not have fruit? And if Jesus was really that hungry for fruit, He could have simply commanded the fig tree to produce fruit? After all, Jesus did feed the 5000 with only five loaves and two fish. (Matt 14:13-21). But instead of making the tree produce fruit, Jesus curses it (Mark 11:21); making this the first miracle that I'm aware of that brought destruction. It should also be observed in these passages of scripture that the fig tree had leaves on it. Having leaves would make the tree deceptive, when considering that figs begin growing just prior or at the same time as the leaves; therefore, there should have been fruit.
The only account of this incident is recorded in Matthew 21:18-22, and in Mark 11:12-14. However, there are some differences within these two scriptures and in the position which the lesson of the fig tree has been placed before and after Jesus displayed his righteous anger towards the conduct taking place in His Father’s house (the temple) Matthew 21:13. We should also consider what is noted in Mark 11:14 "And His disciples heard it." Jesus wanted his disciples to hear what He was saying; because this was another lesson.
In returning to how we should interpret miracles or lesson by Jesus, we should always consider what information we might find in the Old and New Testament that might be related to the fig tree. More specifically, we should examine all scripture within the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) that might be related to this incident. Why you may ask; because Synoptic means together (Syn) seeing (optic) or more clearly seeing together. In other words, no aspects of the Synoptic Gospels should be examined alone; they are meant to be viewed as a whole
Consider if you were standing in a crowd before the cross, not everyone in the crowd will be standing in the exact same space or spot. Thus, viewing the event would produce different perspectives from various angles. A 360-degree view of the event might be obtained if you add all perspectives of the witnesses together. Each witness would have a slightly different account; however, all accounts would be credible as the witnesses were present at the scene and therefore are providing credible testimony. Variations of the accounts could be due to the timings when the accounts were written, but more specifically the account would be dependent on the message that Holy Spirit wants to convey through the writer. After all, disciples are ministers of the Gospel and like our present day ministers the Holy Spirit reveals little treasures that are unique but different through each minister. One minister may have received a diamond, another a ruby of great size and price, and to another an emerald of glorious color. Each piece of treasure is fitting to the one who it has been given, in accordance with God’s will. He adorns His bride to be with great treasures.
Now when looking at Matthew we can seek that the lesson of the fig tree occurred after Jesus enters and displays his righteous anger towards the conduct that was taking place in His Father’s house. Whereas, in Mark the lesson of the fig tree is mentioned before Jesus enters and shows a display of anger towards the conduct of those in His Father’s house. Mark notes that it wasn't until the next morning that they passed by the fig tree that they noticed that the fig tree dried up from the roots. Note that Mark does not say that the root was dead or withered but only the tree itself. However, Matthew writes that "the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, “How did the fig tree wither away so soon?” (Matthew 21:20) or as verse 19 notes "immediately." So could the disciples be incorrect, in the timings when the fig tree had withered; not at all. As noted earlier each witness will give an account in accordance to their perception, and as it has been given to them by the Holy Spirit. Remember what I said about treasures? In Mathew we might see a diamond; whereas, in Mark we might see a ruby of great size and price. Each portion of scripture giving us a little bit more; and each account is to be “seen together” in order to impart wisdom and understanding.
I’ve noticed that some bibles provide subtitles which are not actually part of scripture but they attempt to explain the lesson or event that is about to take place with one line. One translation I looked at has the subtitle “Jesus Cleansed the Temple”. This is very misleading because Jesus did not cleanse the temple, He was displaying His righteous anger against it. Why would Jesus be cleansing the temple, if he was about to become God’s perfect sacrifice, a spotless lamb without blemish upon the cross; the perfect Passover sacrifice. And He was preparing us to be His new temple.
Now when we look at Matthew and Mark and take into account both these Gospels a seeing together, they become illuminated. One might see:
1. The tree bears no fruit
2. The leaves are deceptive, possibly leading some to believe it may be bearing fruit
3. A curse put on the tree by Jesus because it does not bear fruit. Note what Jesus said: “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” (Mark 11:14)
4. The tree has completely withered away from the Root; however, the root is not dead.
5. In Matthew, we read about the works that faith in God can produce; moving mountains.
Now someone might say, well wait a minute what about the additional information that Mark provides in that the tree was out of season. Yes the tree was out of season, but Jesus still expected it to bear fruit. “if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs (Mark 11:13). As explained earlier do you not think that Jesus would have already known there was no fruit on the tree, even if it was out of season. So why did He expect fruit on it even when it was out of season? A lesson within a lesson. What we can conclude from this additional piece of information is that Jesus expects fruit, both in and out of season.
To understand the parables or lessons of Jesus we must find within His word keys that might help us explain or understand them; keys to open the treasure box. The keys are hidden throughout scripture, and are only known to the Holy Spirit. We cannot find the keys under our own strength but only through the guidance of the Spirit because God hides his treasure. The keys open up these lessons, and within them we find our treasure.
“and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
If you don’t believe God hides things think again: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. (Matthew 13:44).
“At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes (Matthew 11:25).
“the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:26-27)
“Then His disciples asked Him, saying, “What does this parable mean?” And He said, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that ‘Seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not understand.’ (Luke 8:9-10)
So, what are some of these keys that might help us unlock the teaching of the fig tree in Matthew and Mark.
Here is my reason why I do not agree with you. To begin, one should look within the context that the scripture was written, including scripture before and after the lesson or miracle.
I find that Jesus is often looked at by people and even professed Christians in his human form (manifestation of flesh) only. So, when examining the events of Jesus, they project themselves into His place applying their own personal experiences to explain the actions of our Lord Jesus Christ. The problem is that they forget the deity of Jesus Christ, in that every aspect He is God.
Considering the deity of Jesus, He would have already known that the fig tree did not have fruit on it. Thus, if Jesus already knew that it did not have fruit, why did He want to make the disciples aware that it did not have fruit? And if Jesus was really that hungry for fruit, He could have simply commanded the fig tree to produce fruit? After all, Jesus did feed the 5000 with only five loaves and two fish. (Matt 14:13-21). But instead of making the tree produce fruit, Jesus curses it (Mark 11:21); making this the first miracle that I'm aware of that brought destruction. It should also be observed in these passages of scripture that the fig tree had leaves on it. Having leaves would make the tree deceptive, when considering that figs begin growing just prior or at the same time as the leaves; therefore, there should have been fruit.
The only account of this incident is recorded in Matthew 21:18-22, and in Mark 11:12-14. However, there are some differences within these two scriptures and in the position which the lesson of the fig tree has been placed before and after Jesus displayed his righteous anger towards the conduct taking place in His Father’s house (the temple) Matthew 21:13. We should also consider what is noted in Mark 11:14 "And His disciples heard it." Jesus wanted his disciples to hear what He was saying; because this was another lesson.
In returning to how we should interpret miracles or lesson by Jesus, we should always consider what information we might find in the Old and New Testament that might be related to the fig tree. More specifically, we should examine all scripture within the Synoptic Gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John) that might be related to this incident. Why you may ask; because Synoptic means together (Syn) seeing (optic) or more clearly seeing together. In other words, no aspects of the Synoptic Gospels should be examined alone; they are meant to be viewed as a whole
Consider if you were standing in a crowd before the cross, not everyone in the crowd will be standing in the exact same space or spot. Thus, viewing the event would produce different perspectives from various angles. A 360-degree view of the event might be obtained if you add all perspectives of the witnesses together. Each witness would have a slightly different account; however, all accounts would be credible as the witnesses were present at the scene and therefore are providing credible testimony. Variations of the accounts could be due to the timings when the accounts were written, but more specifically the account would be dependent on the message that Holy Spirit wants to convey through the writer. After all, disciples are ministers of the Gospel and like our present day ministers the Holy Spirit reveals little treasures that are unique but different through each minister. One minister may have received a diamond, another a ruby of great size and price, and to another an emerald of glorious color. Each piece of treasure is fitting to the one who it has been given, in accordance with God’s will. He adorns His bride to be with great treasures.
Now when looking at Matthew we can seek that the lesson of the fig tree occurred after Jesus enters and displays his righteous anger towards the conduct that was taking place in His Father’s house. Whereas, in Mark the lesson of the fig tree is mentioned before Jesus enters and shows a display of anger towards the conduct of those in His Father’s house. Mark notes that it wasn't until the next morning that they passed by the fig tree that they noticed that the fig tree dried up from the roots. Note that Mark does not say that the root was dead or withered but only the tree itself. However, Matthew writes that "the disciples saw it, they marveled, saying, “How did the fig tree wither away so soon?” (Matthew 21:20) or as verse 19 notes "immediately." So could the disciples be incorrect, in the timings when the fig tree had withered; not at all. As noted earlier each witness will give an account in accordance to their perception, and as it has been given to them by the Holy Spirit. Remember what I said about treasures? In Mathew we might see a diamond; whereas, in Mark we might see a ruby of great size and price. Each portion of scripture giving us a little bit more; and each account is to be “seen together” in order to impart wisdom and understanding.
I’ve noticed that some bibles provide subtitles which are not actually part of scripture but they attempt to explain the lesson or event that is about to take place with one line. One translation I looked at has the subtitle “Jesus Cleansed the Temple”. This is very misleading because Jesus did not cleanse the temple, He was displaying His righteous anger against it. Why would Jesus be cleansing the temple, if he was about to become God’s perfect sacrifice, a spotless lamb without blemish upon the cross; the perfect Passover sacrifice. And He was preparing us to be His new temple.
Now when we look at Matthew and Mark and take into account both these Gospels a seeing together, they become illuminated. One might see:
1. The tree bears no fruit
2. The leaves are deceptive, possibly leading some to believe it may be bearing fruit
3. A curse put on the tree by Jesus because it does not bear fruit. Note what Jesus said: “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” (Mark 11:14)
4. The tree has completely withered away from the Root; however, the root is not dead.
5. In Matthew, we read about the works that faith in God can produce; moving mountains.
Now someone might say, well wait a minute what about the additional information that Mark provides in that the tree was out of season. Yes the tree was out of season, but Jesus still expected it to bear fruit. “if perhaps He would find something on it. When He came to it, He found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs (Mark 11:13). As explained earlier do you not think that Jesus would have already known there was no fruit on the tree, even if it was out of season. So why did He expect fruit on it even when it was out of season? A lesson within a lesson. What we can conclude from this additional piece of information is that Jesus expects fruit, both in and out of season.
To understand the parables or lessons of Jesus we must find within His word keys that might help us explain or understand them; keys to open the treasure box. The keys are hidden throughout scripture, and are only known to the Holy Spirit. We cannot find the keys under our own strength but only through the guidance of the Spirit because God hides his treasure. The keys open up these lessons, and within them we find our treasure.
“and attaining to all riches of the full assurance of understanding, to the knowledge of the mystery of God, both of the Father and of Christ, in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge.” (Colossians 2:2-3)
If you don’t believe God hides things think again: “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like treasure hidden in a field, which a man found and hid; and for joy over it he goes and sells all that he has and buys that field. (Matthew 13:44).
“At that time Jesus answered and said, “I thank You, Father, Lord of heaven and earth, that You have hidden these things from the wise and prudent and have revealed them to babes (Matthew 11:25).
“the mystery which has been hidden from ages and from generations, but now has been revealed to His saints. To them God willed to make known what are the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles: which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” (Colossians 1:26-27)
“Then His disciples asked Him, saying, “What does this parable mean?” And He said, “To you it has been given to know the mysteries of the kingdom of God, but to the rest it is given in parables, that ‘Seeing they may not see, And hearing they may not understand.’ (Luke 8:9-10)
So, what are some of these keys that might help us unlock the teaching of the fig tree in Matthew and Mark.
An explanation of the lesson:
Has Israel ever been referred to as a tree, and has it be told to bear fruit? Yes, it has as can be seen through the message of John. “Therefore, bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore, every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (Matthew 3:8-10).
From the aforementioned passage of scripture, we know that John was the forerunner, and messenger of the coming Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ. Note that John says that the “ax is laid to the root of the tree.” More specifically, the only One that would be allow to cut down the tree is the Owner of the vineyard. Therefore, the Owner was present with His axe. Do I need to say who the Owner was?
“He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.” (Luke 13:6-9). Here we can see again that is only the Owner who can cut it down.
In the story of the fig tree did Jesus cut off the fig tree, causing it to never produce fruit again? Yes, Jesus did when he cursed the fig tree and it withered from the root. Therefore, He literally cut it off, because He has the authority to do so as the owner of the vineyard.
The fig tree in this lesson represents Israel, and it no longer bears fruit. However, by it’s leaves it was deceitful. Jesus the owner of the vineyard cursed it, and in doing so cut it off from the Root. Note above John does not say roots he said “Root.”
An understanding of the Root is important, because in scripture the Root refers to Christ. “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” (Revelation 22:16)
Remember in the lesson of the fig tree Jesus said: “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” (Mark 11:14). Having cursed the fig tree (Israel), no fruit would be produced by her again, because Jesus was separating Himself from her. In order for a tree to produce fruit, it must be attached to the Root.
During that same time Jesus was moving towards his calling by becoming the sacrificial Lamb for all mankind. The temple offerings which were once offered and received by God would be no more. A new relationship was about to be formed but it would be by faith and not by law, and through the acceptance of the sacrifice that Jesus was about to provide; the final and permanent blood atonement made by His blood.
The lesson of the fig tree is written within the context of the Temple incident, because it provides insight to what was about to happen. Jesus went into the Temple and displayed God’s righteous anger against Israel because she had made the Temple into a market place or a “house of merchandise,” and “a den of thieves.” (Matthew 21:13, John 2:16, and Luke 19:46).
Israel was about to be cursed by God, cut off from the Root because she no longer brought forth fruit in keeping with repentance. And Jesus was about to become the Passover Lamb who anyone could receive by faith in Him.
This is what Paul is speaking about when He states that Jesus became a curse for us, not that He was cursed, for God does not curse Himself, but that He became a curse in that the law which was summed up in Him would become a curse for those who followed it.
“Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” (Galatians 3:13-14,) Note: that it does not say that Christ became cursed for us but “a curse.”
Deuteronomy 21:23 - for he who is hanged is accursed of God. Again, Jesus was not cursed by God, but the fulfillment that He did within Himself (the law) became cursed. For God does not curse Himself.
Jesus fulfilled the laws and the prophets in Himself, and by allowing Himself to be hung on the tree (the cross), the Law became a curse to those who now follow it, Israel has been cut off, it will no longer produce fruit because it is no longer attached to the Root.
As Jesus said in Matthew 21:21-22 if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”
What might be better than moving mountains? Would it not be having a relationship with the One who created the mountains, our Lord Jesus Christ? And such is given through the power of faith. The mountain has already been moved.
So, in reply to your comment that Jesus did not curse people that is not true; however, it is your choice to believe or disbelieve. The lesson about the fig tree is about Jesus cursing and cutting Israel off, because she no longer was producing fruit in keeping with repentance. The Owner of the vineyard had returned and was announced by John, and even though the olive tree was given another chance to produce fruit through the Prophets, and the chosen men and women of God, it did not. Thus, the owner cut it down.
We know have become the tree, we are the new branches that have grown from the Root. “For there is hope for a tree, If it is cut down, that it will sprout again, And that its tender shoots will not cease. Though its root may grow old in the earth, And its stump may die in the ground, Yet at the scent of water it will bud And bring forth branches like a plant. (Job 14:7-9)
We are to produce fruit in and out of season in keeping with the word of God. For “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (Galatians 5:22-26)
“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed, we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.” (James 5:7-11)
May God Bless
Has Israel ever been referred to as a tree, and has it be told to bear fruit? Yes, it has as can be seen through the message of John. “Therefore, bear fruits worthy of repentance, and do not think to say to yourselves, ‘We have Abraham as our father.’ For I say to you that God is able to raise up children to Abraham from these stones. And even now the ax is laid to the root of the trees. Therefore, every tree which does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. (Matthew 3:8-10).
From the aforementioned passage of scripture, we know that John was the forerunner, and messenger of the coming Messiah, our Lord Jesus Christ. Note that John says that the “ax is laid to the root of the tree.” More specifically, the only One that would be allow to cut down the tree is the Owner of the vineyard. Therefore, the Owner was present with His axe. Do I need to say who the Owner was?
“He also spoke this parable: “A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none. Then he said to the keeper of his vineyard, ‘Look, for three years I have come seeking fruit on this fig tree and find none. Cut it down; why does it use up the ground?’ But he answered and said to him, ‘Sir, let it alone this year also, until I dig around it and fertilize it. And if it bears fruit, well. But if not, after that you can cut it down.” (Luke 13:6-9). Here we can see again that is only the Owner who can cut it down.
In the story of the fig tree did Jesus cut off the fig tree, causing it to never produce fruit again? Yes, Jesus did when he cursed the fig tree and it withered from the root. Therefore, He literally cut it off, because He has the authority to do so as the owner of the vineyard.
The fig tree in this lesson represents Israel, and it no longer bears fruit. However, by it’s leaves it was deceitful. Jesus the owner of the vineyard cursed it, and in doing so cut it off from the Root. Note above John does not say roots he said “Root.”
An understanding of the Root is important, because in scripture the Root refers to Christ. “I, Jesus, have sent My angel to testify to you these things in the churches. I am the Root and the Offspring of David, the Bright and Morning Star.” (Revelation 22:16)
Remember in the lesson of the fig tree Jesus said: “Let no one eat fruit from you ever again.” (Mark 11:14). Having cursed the fig tree (Israel), no fruit would be produced by her again, because Jesus was separating Himself from her. In order for a tree to produce fruit, it must be attached to the Root.
During that same time Jesus was moving towards his calling by becoming the sacrificial Lamb for all mankind. The temple offerings which were once offered and received by God would be no more. A new relationship was about to be formed but it would be by faith and not by law, and through the acceptance of the sacrifice that Jesus was about to provide; the final and permanent blood atonement made by His blood.
The lesson of the fig tree is written within the context of the Temple incident, because it provides insight to what was about to happen. Jesus went into the Temple and displayed God’s righteous anger against Israel because she had made the Temple into a market place or a “house of merchandise,” and “a den of thieves.” (Matthew 21:13, John 2:16, and Luke 19:46).
Israel was about to be cursed by God, cut off from the Root because she no longer brought forth fruit in keeping with repentance. And Jesus was about to become the Passover Lamb who anyone could receive by faith in Him.
This is what Paul is speaking about when He states that Jesus became a curse for us, not that He was cursed, for God does not curse Himself, but that He became a curse in that the law which was summed up in Him would become a curse for those who followed it.
“Christ has redeemed us from the curse of the law, having become a curse for us (for it is written, “Cursed is everyone who hangs on a tree”), that the blessing of Abraham might come upon the Gentiles in Christ Jesus, that we might receive the promise of the Spirit through faith.” (Galatians 3:13-14,) Note: that it does not say that Christ became cursed for us but “a curse.”
Deuteronomy 21:23 - for he who is hanged is accursed of God. Again, Jesus was not cursed by God, but the fulfillment that He did within Himself (the law) became cursed. For God does not curse Himself.
Jesus fulfilled the laws and the prophets in Himself, and by allowing Himself to be hung on the tree (the cross), the Law became a curse to those who now follow it, Israel has been cut off, it will no longer produce fruit because it is no longer attached to the Root.
As Jesus said in Matthew 21:21-22 if you have faith and do not doubt, you will not only do what was done to the fig tree, but also if you say to this mountain, ‘Be removed and be cast into the sea,’ it will be done. And whatever things you ask in prayer, believing, you will receive.”
What might be better than moving mountains? Would it not be having a relationship with the One who created the mountains, our Lord Jesus Christ? And such is given through the power of faith. The mountain has already been moved.
So, in reply to your comment that Jesus did not curse people that is not true; however, it is your choice to believe or disbelieve. The lesson about the fig tree is about Jesus cursing and cutting Israel off, because she no longer was producing fruit in keeping with repentance. The Owner of the vineyard had returned and was announced by John, and even though the olive tree was given another chance to produce fruit through the Prophets, and the chosen men and women of God, it did not. Thus, the owner cut it down.
We know have become the tree, we are the new branches that have grown from the Root. “For there is hope for a tree, If it is cut down, that it will sprout again, And that its tender shoots will not cease. Though its root may grow old in the earth, And its stump may die in the ground, Yet at the scent of water it will bud And bring forth branches like a plant. (Job 14:7-9)
We are to produce fruit in and out of season in keeping with the word of God. For “the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such there is no law. And those who are Christ's have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires. If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit. Let us not become conceited, provoking one another, envying one another. (Galatians 5:22-26)
“Therefore be patient, brethren, until the coming of the Lord. See how the farmer waits for the precious fruit of the earth, waiting patiently for it until it receives the early and latter rain. You also be patient. Establish your hearts, for the coming of the Lord is at hand. Do not grumble against one another, brethren, lest you be condemned. Behold, the Judge is standing at the door! My brethren, take the prophets, who spoke in the name of the Lord, as an example of suffering and patience. Indeed, we count them blessed who endure. You have heard of the perseverance of Job and seen the end intended by the Lord—that the Lord is very compassionate and merciful.” (James 5:7-11)
May God Bless
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Dear Kelby, i know that we cant put our great God and father in an box and can tell him, was he has to do.
He has his way to help his children. I do not need an assurance that he keeps me in health condition.
I have the assurance he loves me and that i can trust Him. That is much more important.
Our Lord bless you
He has his way to help his children. I do not need an assurance that he keeps me in health condition.
I have the assurance he loves me and that i can trust Him. That is much more important.
Our Lord bless you
Thanks for your post.
I wasn't going to say anything but there's something in your post that bugs me. Why would it somehow be against assurance if we also are assured (to the point of receiving healing) that God is pleased to grant his children health?
I think of the verse "I am come that they might have life, and that they might have it more abundantly".
Love in Jesus,
Kelby
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that would not be biblical and further, if faith the size of a grain of mustard seed is sufficient, then surely God would heal ALL who ask since He wants 'us all to be well and skipping down the lane'
how can you possibly have missing faith if you pray in the first place? Jesus even honored 'I believe...help my unbelief.' that produced a healing so lack of faith is actually a lack on the part of WOFers' of biblical accuracy and creating a doctrine that is not backed up by the Bible
people like to quote Isaiah 53 and claim that the atonement provides healing
so here is the gold question on that:
if God has provided salvation to all who come and with faith believe and are saved, do you believe that they are saved? each and every one? (note...I am not discussing sanctification here or if they think baptism is needed or the 101 other objections some people offer regarding how we are saved. I am simply asking if John 3:16 is true or not)
in other words, if 100% people are saved by faith and on their way to heaven, shouldn't 100% people be healed in the same manner?
that would be the logical conclusion, would it not?
how can you possibly have missing faith if you pray in the first place? Jesus even honored 'I believe...help my unbelief.' that produced a healing so lack of faith is actually a lack on the part of WOFers' of biblical accuracy and creating a doctrine that is not backed up by the Bible
people like to quote Isaiah 53 and claim that the atonement provides healing
so here is the gold question on that:
if God has provided salvation to all who come and with faith believe and are saved, do you believe that they are saved? each and every one? (note...I am not discussing sanctification here or if they think baptism is needed or the 101 other objections some people offer regarding how we are saved. I am simply asking if John 3:16 is true or not)
in other words, if 100% people are saved by faith and on their way to heaven, shouldn't 100% people be healed in the same manner?
that would be the logical conclusion, would it not?
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1. The mustard seed faith is one that cannot be stamped out. The roots go down so deep, it's known to be 23 feet into the earth.
2. Jesus became the curse for mankind.
Gal 3:13 The Messiah redeemed us from the curse of the Law by becoming a curse for us. For it is written, "A curse on everyone who is hung on a tree!
3. The fig tree was indeed the symbol of Israel. One of several. Also is thought to be the leaves of the fig tree that A and E covered themselves with. Jesus curses that tree for its' fruit is natural. All fruit now accepted is spiritual. That was a great post Mj1. I tried to give you a winner but for some reason couldn't.
4. Sometimes we view Jesus saying things with sternness. When I was first born again, I thought Jesus yelled at His mother at the wedding of Cana. Started crying and asked, Jesus why did you yell at your mother? Instantly am in an open vision and am at the wedding. I saw Him turn tenderly to Mary, and sweetly say with a smile...woman what I have I to do with you....and she looks back at Him, knowing that He will do what she wants. I don't make that mistake anymore. So we get the idea that Hes's angry with us for little faith.
Even when we are faithless, He isn't. He cannot deny Himself.
Sometimes our faith is weak, and it doesn't reach into the spiritual realm. I say this for Holy Spirit told me this...faith is the assurance of things hoped for....it's actually a substance in the Spirit. When Father sees it...He responds. The evidence of things not seen. Yet. Bring the need down to earth.
AS it is in heaven...on earth. Pray this way. Is sickness there? Is poverty there? Are we connected to Him?
Am learning about being one with them. I have much much more to learn. And I don't have that awesome faith that I would like to have...yet.
2. Jesus became the curse for mankind.
Gal 3:13 The Messiah redeemed us from the curse of the Law by becoming a curse for us. For it is written, "A curse on everyone who is hung on a tree!
3. The fig tree was indeed the symbol of Israel. One of several. Also is thought to be the leaves of the fig tree that A and E covered themselves with. Jesus curses that tree for its' fruit is natural. All fruit now accepted is spiritual. That was a great post Mj1. I tried to give you a winner but for some reason couldn't.
4. Sometimes we view Jesus saying things with sternness. When I was first born again, I thought Jesus yelled at His mother at the wedding of Cana. Started crying and asked, Jesus why did you yell at your mother? Instantly am in an open vision and am at the wedding. I saw Him turn tenderly to Mary, and sweetly say with a smile...woman what I have I to do with you....and she looks back at Him, knowing that He will do what she wants. I don't make that mistake anymore. So we get the idea that Hes's angry with us for little faith.
Even when we are faithless, He isn't. He cannot deny Himself.
Sometimes our faith is weak, and it doesn't reach into the spiritual realm. I say this for Holy Spirit told me this...faith is the assurance of things hoped for....it's actually a substance in the Spirit. When Father sees it...He responds. The evidence of things not seen. Yet. Bring the need down to earth.
AS it is in heaven...on earth. Pray this way. Is sickness there? Is poverty there? Are we connected to Him?
Am learning about being one with them. I have much much more to learn. And I don't have that awesome faith that I would like to have...yet.
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