Luke 13-16

What does the parable of the fig tree suggest about repentance?

This is such a great parable, but I don’t think it is focused so much on repentance. It is a parable of the care and concern and desire God has for people to repent. Fig trees, as I understand them have no need for much care. Either they bear fruit or don’t. Through this parable we see the extent God will go in seeing people redeemed and bearing fruit. AND, we must also see that at some point, as great as God’s desire is, there is a limit to what God can do to bring about repentance.

Who is invited into the kingdom?

Everyone is invited. We must accept the invitation.

How does God act toward those who are lost?

The parable of the lost sheep, coin, and sons reveals the extent to which God will go in seeking that which is lost. It also reveals God’s limitations. He can search for the prodigal son. He can give an explanation to the older son, but they have to come home!

Another aspect of this parable is that God desires that we (who know God through Jesus Christ) should have the same desire for the lost world as the father does for his lost sons.

What was Jesus wanting to teach when he told the story about Lazarus and the rich man?

Be aware, eternity is not like this earthly life. What we do and how we treat those who are in need have eternal implications. God has already provided what we need to follow him. The sensational and spectacular are not any more influential in a person decision to follow Jesus than the normal day to day acts of God in our world.