Mark 11:20 – “In the morning, as they went along, they saw the fig tree withered from the roots.”
Extended Explanation
This verse takes place the day after Jesus cursed the fig tree (Mark 11:14). As Jesus and His disciples walk by it again, they see that it has completely withered, starting from the roots. The fact that the tree is withered so quickly shows that this was not a natural process—it was a supernatural sign. The tree’s rapid withering is significant because it confirms Jesus’ authority and serves as a visual lesson for His disciples about judgment, faith, and the importance of bearing spiritual fruit.
The fact that the tree is “withered from the roots” symbolizes a total and complete death. In the same way, Jesus’ act of cursing the fig tree was not just about the tree itself but was a judgment on the fruitlessness of Israel’s religious leaders, whose external appearances of piety masked a lack of true faith and obedience.
Historical Context
In the agricultural world of ancient Israel, fig trees were common and important for daily life. They provided fruit and were a symbol of prosperity and security (1 Kings 4:25). However, when a fig tree failed to produce fruit, it was considered useless. In the Old Testament, the fig tree often symbolized Israel, and a barren or withered tree was a sign of judgment (Hosea 9:10, Jeremiah 8:13).
During Jesus’ time, Israel’s religious leaders had created a system of rituals and traditions that looked impressive on the outside but were spiritually empty. The temple, which should have been a place of worship and prayer, had become a place of corruption. The withered fig tree served as a warning that outward appearances without genuine faith would lead to judgment.
Theological Implications
This verse illustrates the importance of genuine faith and spiritual fruit. The fig tree appeared healthy because of its leaves, but it had no fruit, symbolizing people or communities that look good on the outside but are spiritually barren. God desires more than external appearances—He looks for hearts that are genuinely devoted to Him and lives that produce the fruit of righteousness, love, and obedience (Galatians 5:22-23).
The withering of the tree also serves as a warning about the consequences of rejecting God. The religious leaders who rejected Jesus and clung to their empty rituals would face judgment. But this lesson applies to all believers. Without genuine faith and a life rooted in Christ, spiritual death is inevitable.
Literary Analysis
Mark’s Gospel often uses symbolic events to convey deeper spiritual truths, and the withering of the fig tree is one of them. The fact that it happens so quickly emphasizes the seriousness of the lesson. The detail that the tree withered “from the roots” is particularly significant because it suggests that the problem wasn’t just surface-level—it was deeply rooted. In the same way, spiritual issues are often hidden beneath the surface but can lead to complete failure if not addressed.
Mark also uses this event to build on the tension and themes established earlier in the chapter. The fig tree is a living parable that mirrors the cleansing of the temple (Mark 11:15-17). Both actions highlight Jesus’ authority and His mission to confront spiritual hypocrisy and call for true worship.
Biblical Cross-References
- Jeremiah 8:13 – God declares that there will be no figs on the tree as a sign of judgment on Israel’s disobedience.
- Hosea 9:10 – Israel is compared to a fig tree that once produced good fruit but later became corrupt.
- John 15:5-6 – Jesus teaches that those who remain in Him will bear fruit, but those who do not will wither and be thrown away.
- Matthew 7:19 – “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire.”
- Psalm 1:3-4 – The righteous are compared to a tree that bears fruit, while the wicked are like chaff that is blown away.
What This Verse Means for Today’s Christian
For Christians today, this verse is a reminder to examine the condition of their spiritual lives. It’s not enough to look good on the outside by attending church, following religious routines, or saying the right things. God is looking for real evidence of faith—spiritual fruit that comes from a genuine relationship with Him. This includes living with love, humility, kindness, and obedience to His Word.
The verse also teaches that spiritual fruitfulness doesn’t happen by accident. Just as a tree needs good roots to produce fruit, believers need to be deeply rooted in Christ. Without that connection, our faith will wither, just as the fig tree did.
It also serves as a warning. The rapid withering of the fig tree shows that judgment can come unexpectedly. Christians are called to be vigilant in their walk with God, regularly evaluating their hearts and making sure they are living out their faith authentically.
How This Verse Relates to a Loving God
God’s love is shown in His desire for His people to be spiritually alive and fruitful. The fact that Jesus uses the fig tree as a warning shows that He is giving people an opportunity to reflect and repent. His desire isn’t to condemn but to lead people to a life of spiritual growth and abundance.
God’s love is also seen in His provision of what we need to bear fruit. Through His Word, His Spirit, and the community of believers, He provides the “spiritual nutrients” necessary for growth. Just as a good gardener cares for his trees, God tends to His people, helping them grow in faith and righteousness.
How This Verse Connects to Jesus Christ
This verse highlights Jesus’ authority over creation and His role as the judge of spiritual fruitfulness. By cursing the fig tree and seeing it wither, Jesus demonstrates that He has the power to bring both blessing and judgment. His actions are a reminder that He is not only the Savior who offers grace but also the righteous judge who holds people accountable.
The withered fig tree also connects to Jesus’ teaching in John 15, where He describes Himself as the vine and His followers as the branches. Just as the fig tree needed good roots to produce fruit, believers need to remain connected to Jesus in order to live fruitful lives. Without Him, spiritual growth is impossible.
Questions for Reflection and Discussion
- Are you bearing spiritual fruit, or are you relying on outward appearances to make it seem like you are?
- What does it mean to be “rooted” in Christ, and how can you cultivate that in your daily life?
- Are there any areas in your life where you feel spiritually stagnant or withering? How can you address those areas?
- How does the withering of the fig tree remind you of the importance of regular self-examination in your walk with God?
- What role does the community of believers play in helping you grow and stay spiritually fruitful?