How can we apply the lesson of faith in Matthew 21:20 today? Setting the Scene “Matthew 21:20: ‘When the disciples saw this, they marveled and asked, “How did the fig tree wither so quickly?”’ Verses 21–22 continue: ‘Jesus replied, “Truly I tell you, if you have faith and do not doubt, not only will you do what was done to the fig tree, but even if you say to this mountain, ‘Be lifted up and thrown into the sea,’ it will happen. If you believe, you will receive whatever you ask for in prayer.”’ What Jesus Underscored About Faith - Faith is to be active, spoken, and expectant—“say to this mountain.” - Doubt drains spiritual authority; belief releases it. - Prayer is the primary arena where faith is exercised and rewarded. - The lesson is literal: the same God who withered the fig tree moves mountains when His people believe. Timeless Principles - God responds to faith that is rooted in His revealed will (1 John 5:14–15). - Faith and doubt cannot comfortably coexist (James 1:6–7). - The object of faith is God Himself, not the believer’s own resolve (Mark 11:22, “Have faith in God”). - Mountains symbolize any obstacle that hinders God’s purpose—none are immovable to Him (Jeremiah 32:27). Practical Ways to Apply This Faith Today - Saturate the mind with Scripture to know what God has promised (Romans 10:17). - When facing a “mountain,” pray specifically and speak Scripture aloud that addresses the need. – Example: financial need → Philippians 4:19. – Example: family salvation → Acts 16:31. - Remove competing voices of unbelief: – Limit media or conversations that seed fear. – Recall past answers to prayer; give testimony to strengthen confidence (Psalm 77:11–12). - Act in line with prayed-for answers: – Praying for employment? Complete applications and interviews. – Praying for healing? Follow medical advice while thanking God for restoration (James 2:17). - Maintain a lifestyle of forgiveness; bitterness blocks mountain-moving faith (Mark 11:25). Guardrails to Keep Us on Track - Faith is never a tool to force selfish desires; it aligns us with God’s glory (John 15:7). - God’s timing refines faith; immediate results are not the only proof He is working (Hebrews 6:12). - Contentment rests in God’s character even when the “mountain” remains longer than expected (Philippians 4:11–13). Encouragement for Daily Living Hebrews 11:1 reminds, “Now faith is the assurance of what we hope for and the certainty of what we do not see.” Every present mountain is an invitation to take Jesus at His word. Stand on the promises, speak in line with them, and watch the God who withers fig trees make room for His purposes in your life. |
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