Scripture Focus: 21 Therefore I tell you, whatever you ask for in prayer, believe that you have received it, and it will be yours (Mark 11:24; read 11-23).
Introduction
As we noted in the last lesson, the fruitless fig tree, though in full foliage, was a stark symbol of the Temple establishment. The Temple that, according to Isaiah 56, was to be a “house of prayer (or worship) for the nations” had been transformed into a “den of robbers” (Jeremiah 7:11). Consistent with the prophetic critique of Jeremiah to his ancient contemporaries, the actions of the current priestly clan had transformed the temple into a place of indecent trade and, by implication, taking advantage of the poor. In short, though it boasted of righteousness it was, like the fruitless fig tree, nothing but leaves.
In response to Peter’s amazement at the abrupt destruction of the fig tree, Jesus took the opportunity to teach the disciples, strangely, about faith, prayer, and forgiveness. This seems rather misplaced. What does faith and forgiveness have to do with the death of a fig tree?
Perhaps the context can help. Jesus had just critiqued the temple establishment for its lack of purpose. It was not genuinely faithful to God’s calling. Rather than a place of prayer, it had become a place of monetary gain. Rather than living into the justice of God, some apparently were using it as a place of exploitation (“brigands” would be a possible translation of “robbers” here).
Using a common metaphor of the day, Jesus reminded the disciples that faithful prayer to God can result in making the impossible, possible. Understood in this context, this fledgling group of disciples had the capacity to serve the miraculous purpose of God in the world. Connected to this, is the reminder that, in order to fulfill such a purpose they, too, must live out the mercy of God in forgiveness. Genuine, faithful prayer is inextricably linked to forgiving others.
Some Background
The Herodian temple was a magnificent building. Gleaming atop what is known as the Temple Mount today, it was a sight to behold. No doubt, Jewish pilgrims from all over the world at the time of Passover were awed by, not only its impressive architecture, but its religious significance.
The Temple was the place where God uniquely dwelt; where heaven and earth met. While the temple did not, nor could not, contain the full reality of God (cf. Isaiah 6), it was, nonetheless, a central symbol of their identity. And, it should have reflected Israel’s real purpose—to bear witness to the character of the One True God, who intended to bring all nations together under his sovereign, graceful rule. Unfortunately, as is often the case, the temple establishment had morphed into a self-serving commerce. It was nothing but leaves.
Questions
What did you hear in this morning’s message that stood out to you? What was interesting, important, or confusing?
What questions and or tensions emerge when you hear about “faith that can move mountains”?
How do you understand this passage in its immediate context? Are there any other scriptures that speak to this issue?
What is forgiveness such a integral part of genuine prayer?
Reflections
Interestingly, Jesus’ teaching on faith, prayer and forgiveness is connected to this overall context. The withered fig tree symbolized the sad consequence of the temple establishment, if it continued on its current path. It appears, then, that Jesus offers a path forward for his fledgling disciples, who represented the newly-constituted Israel. Bold faith in God, with an attitude of humble forgiveness can make the apparent impossible, possible. Too often, such passages are used for selfish purposes. The “name it, and claim it” theology, for all its calls to audacious faith actually reflects the attitudes of the temple establishment. Genuine, audacious faith is infused with humility and forgiveness.