Topical Encyclopedia
In biblical literature, the vine is a frequently used symbol, often representing Israel or the people of God. However, one of the lesser-discussed aspects of the vine is the worthlessness of its wood. Unlike other trees, the wood of the vine is not valued for its utility in construction or craftsmanship. This characteristic is used metaphorically in Scripture to convey spiritual truths about unfruitfulness and unprofitableness.
The prophet Ezekiel provides a poignant illustration of this concept. In
Ezekiel 15:2-5 , the Lord poses a rhetorical question: "Son of man, how is the wood of the vine better than that of a branch on any of the trees in the forest? Can its wood be used to make anything useful? Do people make pegs from it to hang things on? And after it is thrown on the fire as fuel and the fire burns both ends and chars the middle, is it then useful for anything?" Here, the vine's wood is depicted as inferior and unfit for any constructive purpose, emphasizing its lack of inherent value apart from its fruit-bearing capacity.
This imagery serves as a powerful metaphor for spiritual fruitfulness. Just as the vine's wood is worthless without fruit, so too are the people of God when they fail to produce spiritual fruit. Jesus echoes this sentiment in the New Testament, where He declares, "I am the true vine, and My Father is the gardener. He cuts off every branch in Me that bears no fruit" (
John 15:1-2). The emphasis is on the necessity of remaining in Christ to bear fruit, for apart from Him, believers can do nothing of eternal value (
John 15:5).
The worthlessness of the vine's wood thus serves as a sobering reminder of the importance of spiritual vitality and fruitfulness. It calls believers to examine their lives and ensure they are abiding in Christ, producing the fruits of righteousness that glorify God. In this way, the metaphor of the vine's wood transcends its immediate context, offering timeless lessons on the nature of true spiritual worth and the dangers of spiritual barrenness.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Ezekiel 15:6,7Therefore thus said the Lord GOD; As the vine tree among the trees of the forest, which I have given to the fire for fuel, so will I give the inhabitants of Jerusalem.
Torrey's Topical Textbook
Resources
What is the fruit of righteousness in Philippians 1:11? | GotQuestions.orgWhat is the key to bearing fruit as a Christian? | GotQuestions.orgWhat can we learn from the tribe of Joseph? | GotQuestions.orgVine: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.comBible Concordance •
Bible Dictionary •
Bible Encyclopedia •
Topical Bible •
Bible Thesuarus
