Keraia
Luke 13

Luke 13:9

The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree · Luke 13:6–9
Read Luke 13

Translations

Modern
If it bears fruit next year, fine. But if not, you can cut it down.’”
Traditional
And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down.
Literal
…and if indeed it should make fruit in the time, so be it. But if not, you will cut it down.’”
Latin
…et siquidem fecerit fructum: sin autem, in futurum succides eam.

Original

Greek
English
If it bears fruit next year, fine. But if not, you can cut it down.’”

Notes

Luke 13:9

cut it down: A stump or fallen tree symbolized judgement or destruction (compare 3:9; see also Isaiah 6:13; 10:34; 11:1; Jeremiah 46:22; Daniel 4:23; Matthew 3:10; 7:19).

Luke 13:6–9

The parable of the barren fig tree (a story about a tree that does not produce fruit) shows the ministry of Jesus to Israel. If the nation did not produce the fruit of repentance (turning away from sin), it would face judgment. The story does not give a final ending, which shows that Israel still had a chance to respond. Compare with Matthew 21:18–19 and the similar passage in Mark 11:12–14.

Theme notes and profiles

God’s Judgment of His People

Events

Parallels

Isaiah 5:1–7

Glossary

Bible, Manuscripts and Text of the (New Testament) Galilee Jude, Letter of Luke, Gospel of Vines, Vineyard

Topics

Church: Backslidden Fig Tree: Barren, Parable of God: Longsuffering of God: Longsuffering of, Abused Jesus, the Christ: Parable of The Barren Fig Tree Jesus, the Christ: Parable of the Barren Fig Tree (In Galilee) Judgment: According to Opportunity and Works Parables: Parables of Christ: Barren Fig-Tree Probation: The Fig Tree Reproof: Faithfulness In of the Barren Fig Tree Responsibility: According to Privilege The Patience of God: Illustrated Unfaithfulness: General Scriptures Concerning Unfruitfulness: General Scriptures Concerning Vineyard: Parables of Works: Good: The Barren Fig Tree