The next day as they were leaving Bethany, Jesus was hungry. Seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to find out if it had any fruit. When he reached it, he found nothing but leaves, because it was not the season for figs. Then he said to the tree, “May no one ever eat fruit from you again.” And his disciples heard him say it.

--Parallel verses:
‭‭Matthew‬ ‭7‬:‭15‬-‭20‬
[Jesus speaking]
Watch out for false prophets. They come to you in sheep’s clothing, but inwardly they are ferocious wolves. By their fruit you will recognize them. Do people pick grapes from thornbushes, or figs from thistles? Likewise, every good tree bears good fruit, but a bad tree bears bad fruit. A good tree cannot bear bad fruit, and a bad tree cannot bear good fruit. Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. Thus, by their fruit you will recognize them.

What do the fig leaves of the tree speak of? What did they indicate that might be there from a distance? Fruit. Jesus was hungry and he went up to the tree expecting to eat, but was disappointed.

In the same way, the Pharisees would speak of holiness and righteous living. From a distance, they looked to be very well put together on the outside. They advertised that their way of life was fruitful. They had leaves indicating health.

But a close examination of their lives did not reveal any real fruit. They were like the rulers of the Gentiles and “lorded it over” the Jews. But instead of doing this mainly by physical fear and force, they did it by piling up requirements on the people. By giving them so many expectations of what they had to do to “qualify”, it became a “no win” prospect.

Jesus here curses the fig tree. He was expecting fruit. Without producing fruit it was worthless. It was not the right season for fruit, true. But he was making a point to his disciples. As disappointing as it is to be physically hungry and seek out food to fill you up only to be left wanting, it is even more devastating to seek after the things of God and be fooled by a false teacher.

At the end of the day, I must examine my life and see if I really am producing the fruit of a follower of Jesus. Or am I just full of hot air spiritually? And whoever I follow must have a realness to their faith with real fruit production.

Lord, may I examine myself frequently to see if the life I lead is obedient to you. Not just devoid of overt sin, but also obedient to your call to love and serve those around me in humility. May this fruit define me!