Deceptive Appearances

“On the following day, when they came from Bethany, he was hungry. And seeing in the distance a fig tree in leaf, he went to see if he could find anything on it. When he came to it, he found nothing but leaves, for it was not the season for figs. And he said to it, "May no one ever eat fruit from you again." And his disciples heard it.” ESV Mark 11:12-14

Jesus is God. That is a recurring theme in Mark. Over and over Mark gives testimony to Jesus’ deity and he does so once more in these verses. Who can speak commands to a tree and have them come to pass? Only God. But, one might counter that Jesus was a man because God would certainly have no need of food; and that too is affirmed in our verses. In referring to Jesus’ dual nature, some people use the term God-man because Jesus is fully God yet also was fully man for a season. Perhaps his Old Testament name, Immanuel (which means God with us), is the name most descriptive of his nature while on earth.

While Jesus’ dual nature is certainly true and affirmed in our passage, I’d ask you to focus your thoughts on the deceptive appearance of the fig tree for a moment. Figs, our passage tells us, were not yet in season, but from a distance this particular fig tree was deceiving because it gave the appearance of bearing fruit. It was in full leaf, which was a sign that it should likewise be loaded with fruit. So, Jesus made his way to the tree, no doubt anticipating selecting a few choice figs and satisfying his hunger. Profound disappointment replaced hopeful anticipation as Jesus searched the tree for fruit and the tree received his scorn.

Now consider this. If Jesus walked into our town, physically and mentally exhausted and hungry for the fellowship and worship to be found in the local church, what would he find? If Jesus spotted your church in the distance adorned with a steeple and Christian symbols and giving all outward appearances of being a church, would he be satisfied with what he found inside? Would he find a fellowship of true believers and a house of worship or a house of entertainment? Would there be any spiritual fruit to be found in the majestic, sentimental building?

In reference to our text and the broader passage J.C. Ryle gives this warning: “Let us remember these verses whenever we go to the house of God…Let us call to mind where we are…what we are doing…in whose presence we are engaged. Let us beware of giving God a mere formal service, while our hearts are full of the world. Let us leave our business and money at home, and not carry them to church….The Lord still lives, who cast out buyers and sellers from the temple…”

Could it happen at your church? Would Jesus feel deceived and disappointed if He came into your church building seeking fellowship and worship or would you receive His scorn? May it never be! Strive to be a biblical church in every way, worshipping the living God in spirit and truth each and every day.