What lessons can we learn from the symbolism of figs in Jeremiah 24:3? Jeremiah’s vision of two baskets of figs “Then the LORD said to me, ‘What do you see, Jeremiah?’ I replied, ‘Figs; the good figs are very good, and the bad figs are very bad, so bad they cannot be eaten.’” (Jeremiah 24:3) Good figs – God’s approval of the obedient remnant • The first ripe figs were prized for sweetness (Isaiah 28:4); they symbolize the exiles carried off early to Babylon (vv. 5–7). • God “sets His eyes on them for good” (v. 6); even in discipline He preserves a faithful core. • He promises to “give them a heart to know Me” and to “plant them, and not pull them up” (v. 7). • Lesson: obedience in hardship invites God’s protective favor (cf. Romans 8:28). Bad figs – God’s judgment on the stubborn • Rotting, inedible figs picture King Zedekiah, the leaders, and those who refused correction (vv. 8–10). • They looked safe in Jerusalem, yet God would make them “a horror and an evil” among the kingdoms (v. 9). • Lesson: outward security means nothing when hearts resist God’s word (cf. Proverbs 14:12). Timeless principles drawn from the two baskets • God distinguishes between genuine and counterfeit faith; He sees the heart, not the location. • Discipline can be an act of mercy; exile preserved the nation from total ruin. • Early, sweet fruit illustrates prompt repentance; delayed obedience spoils quickly (2 Corinthians 6:2). • Spiritual fruitfulness is non-negotiable—good figs must stay good (John 15:5-6). New-Testament echoes of fig symbolism • Jesus cursed the barren fig tree (Matthew 21:18-19) to warn of fruitless religion. • The unfruitful fig tree of Luke 13:6-9 receives one final season of grace—mirroring Judah’s last chance. • Believers are urged to bear “the fruit of the Spirit” (Galatians 5:22-23), the unmistakable evidence of life. Applying the message today • Welcome God’s pruning; it proves you are among His cherished “good figs.” • Examine your fruit—do actions match confession? (James 2:17). • Stay soft to God’s voice; resisting His word breeds the rot of the bad figs. • Encourage fellow believers under discipline; remind them that God’s eye is on them for good. |
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