Power of Words by Jesus

[20] "And in the morning, as they passed by, they saw the fig tree dried up from the roots. [21] And Peter calling to remembrance saith unto him, Master, behold, the fig tree which thou cursedst is withered away. [22] And Jesus answering saith unto them, Have faith in God." - Mark 11:20-23

 The Lord Jesus had just finished his teaching and admonition towards the Pharisees,then left the city. In verse 20, the following morning, as they were traveling the same road, they saw the fig tree that Jesus had previously cursed. Now, it had dried up from the roots. Initially, when He cursed it, it began to wither, but now, it had completely dried up from the root. According to Matthew 21:19, it says: “When He saw the fig tree in the way, He came to it and found nothing on it but leaves. He said to it, ‘Let no fruit grow on you ever again.’ Immediately, the fig tree withered away.” The word “immediately” indicates that the tree began to wither but was fully dry the next day.

Here, the Lord Jesus was demonstrating the power of words and believing in them. After 24 hours, the fig tree had dried up from the roots. The drying process started with the leaves and continued to the roots. This passage illustrates that curses, like blessings, may not manifest instantly but can take time to show their effects. Thus, we should be cautious about what we say, as our words can have lasting impacts. What’s spoken may not immediately show signs but can develop into significant consequences over time. Therefore, it’s important to be mindful and measured in our speech.

The reflection on Matthew 21:19 where Jesus curses the fig tree brings out important lessons about the power of words and the spiritual significance behind Jesus’ actions. Here’s a more streamlined summary and analysis of the passage and its implications:

- **Event Description**: Jesus curses a fig tree for having no fruit, despite its leaves.

- **Immediate and Later Effects**: While the tree withers immediately, it fully dries from its roots within 24 hours.

- **Matthew 21:19**: This verse highlights how Jesus used the moment to demonstrate the significance and power behind spoken words and beliefs. 

Key Lessons:

1. **Power of Words**: Words carry an immense power that may not produce visible effects instantly but can manifest profoundly over time. Just like Jesus’ words caused the fig tree to wither from its roots within a day, our words can have lasting impacts.

  2. **Guarding Speech**: Be mindful and careful with spoken words. Harmful and negative comments or curses might not show immediate consequences but can cause damage over time.

3. **Faith and Belief**: The incident demonstrates Jesus’ belief in the authority of his words, emphasizing the importance of faith and conviction.