Figs and Faith (Mark 11:12-14, 20-26)

January 24, 2010

I.     Fruitful, vv. 12-14.
A.     There were lots of leaves but no fruit.
     1.     Jesus experienced the same physical needs as we do.
     2.     The tree had the appearance of being fruitful.
          a.     The regular crop would be in May or June.
          b.     Edible "buds" were available at this time.
B.     The curse was meant to illustrate a point.
     1.     God had repeatedly called Israel to be fruitful.
          a.     He wanted sincere worship, Micah 6:6-8.
          b.     He wanted right relations with others, Micah 7:1-3.
     2.     Fruitfulness is a sign of genuine faith.
          1.     Religion is not the same thing as fruitfulness.
          2.     True love of God is reflected by the way we live.
          3.     A fruitful life impacts the world around us.

II.     Faithful vv. 20-24.
     A.     The fig tree was completely dead the next day.
          1.     Peter expressed the surprise of all the disciples.
          2.     Jesus used it to point out the power of prayer.
               a.     The Dead Sea was within sight of the Mount of Olives.
               b.     Our faith + God's power = Answered prayer.
     B.     Does this mean we can have anything we pray for, v. 24?
          1.     Do not doubt God's ability or desire to answer.
          2.     Our faith must line up with God's will.
               a.     The closer we are to God the better we pray.
               b.     Always qualify prayer with: God's will be done.

III.     Forgiving, vv. 25-26.
     A.     Answered prayer depends on right relationships with people.
          1.     God honors hearts that seek reconciliation.
               a.     Unforgiving attitudes hinder our relationship with God.
               b.     Take the first step to make things right.
          2.     This is especially true in marriage, 1 Peter 3:7.
B.     This is important because a forgiving heart reflects God's grace.
     1.     How can I ask forgiveness when I do not forgive?
     2.     God knows our heart and answers prayer accordingly.

Personal Challenges
1.     Read the verses again and use the sermon outline as a guide.
      a.     Fruitful: What is one thing you can do this week to serve God better?
      b.     Faithful: What heart attitude do you need to work on to grow in faith?
      c.     Forgiving: Is there someone you need to forgive or ask forgiveness of?
2.     Do you know God in a personal relationship?