Purpose

Linda Rock
Sep 15
3 min read

A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard, and he came seeking fruit on it and found none.

Having looked at the privilege given to the fig tree in being planted in a vineyard, we meditate on the reason or purpose for that fig tree being planted where it was. Remember, we are taking the word vineyard literally to mean a place where grapes are grown.

Purpose – He came seeking fruit on it.

Before we come to state the purpose for the owner having a fig tree planted in his vineyard, there are some obvious, yet holding facts that need to be stated. It is the stating of these facts, bringing them to the forefront of our minds that helps us to see, remember and be very honest about our own privileged lives.

We approach the purpose of the fig tree being in the vineyard, by stating reasons why it was not there, first and foremost. In other words, not one of these reasons is the purpose or intention of the owner having this fig tree in his vineyard. I offer you four of them.

The purpose was not for shade. Everyone knows that a full grown fig tree is a spreading tree and it gives effective and helpful shade to smaller trees and plants, to the birds and beasts, and to weary feet seeking shelter and rest. However, as useful and commendable a quality as shade may be, it was not the owner’s intention, when he had the fig tree planted in his vineyard.
The purpose was not for show. None can refute that the fig tree is not a handsome tree to behold. Its deeply green, thick, rich foliage, on a well-formed and sturdy trunk is by all means impressive. Additionally, such a tree among vines, which do not reach up to the fig tree's stature and size, adds to its eye-catching beauty. The fig tree will enhance any garden, especially a vineyard. However, as striking and stately a show, as it may make, it was not the owner’s intention when he had the fig tree planted in his vineyard.
The purpose was not for stability. The roots of the fig tree spread widely and one function of the roots, is to keep and guard against soil erosion. Understand this. It is not that the owner of the vineyard is unmindful of this feature of the roots and is ungrateful. Certainly not! However, as useful and helpful as the roots providing stability to the soil, it was not the owner’s intention when he had the fig tree planted in his vineyard.
The purpose was not for style. In other words, the planting of a stationary tree among running grape vines, is not for style, or ornamentation. It is not impossible and certainly not uncommon for trees, to be planted to give character and style to one’s ground. People admire the planting style of agriculturists and praise and laud them for their acumen in choice and tastes. However, as commendable and pleasing his desire and mind in choosing a fig tree over other trees, style was not the owner’s intention when he had the fig tree planted in his vineyard.

Having discussed and identified that the owner’s reason or purpose for planting a fig tree in his vineyard was not first and foremost about shade, show, stability or style, we look at the reason. The answer comes from the owner himself, as we are told that, he came seeking fruit on it. His singular purpose is to receive figs, fruit from the tree.

Is this not also true of you and me? Among our many graces, talents, gifts, services and more, which are useful to people in many ways, our Lord’s singular reason for this privilege of grace, to be planted in His vineyard, is to bear fruit. Has not Jesus made this abundantly clear? By this My Father is glorified, that you bear much fruit: so you will be My disciples. John 15: 8.

Fruit bearing is mandatory for all who are Jesus’ disciples.