Holy Tuesday
On Holy Tuesday, Jesus' authority was questioned and He encountered a fruitless fig tree, which He cursed for its lack of productivity. This brief sermon draws a parallel between the barren fig tree and aspects of our own lives that may be unfruitful or hindering our spiritual growth.
Intro Prayer
Dear Heavenly Father, as we gather together today, we ask that You open our hearts and minds to recognize areas in our lives that need pruning. Guide our discussion and help us to be honest with ourselves and each other as we seek to grow closer to You. In Jesus' name, Amen.
Key Verses
Questions
What does the fig tree represent in this story, and why do you think Jesus chose to curse it?
How can we identify 'fruitless' areas in our own lives?
What makes it difficult for us to let go of things that aren't producing good fruit in our lives?
How can fasting and prayer help us identify areas that need pruning?
What's the difference between something that's temporarily unfruitful versus permanently unfruitful?
How can we ensure we're bearing good fruit in our spiritual lives?
What role does the Holy Spirit play in helping us identify areas that need to be cut away?
How might our lives change if we regularly evaluated and pruned unfruitful areas?
Life Application
Today, spend 15 minutes in prayer, asking God to reveal one area of your life that isn't bearing fruit. Write down what He shows you and make a specific plan to address that area through either pruning it away or nurturing it to become fruitful.
Key Takeaways
Unfruitful areas in our lives need to be identified and addressed
The Holy Spirit guides us in recognizing what needs to be cut away
Fasting and prayer are powerful tools for spiritual discernment
Regular spiritual evaluation is necessary for healthy growth
Ending Prayer
Lord Jesus, thank You for showing us the importance of bearing good fruit in our lives. Give us the courage to cut away those things that don't honor You, and the wisdom to nurture those things that do. Help us to be faithful stewards of all You've given us. In Your name we pray, Amen.