The Parable of the Barren Fig Tree

This is a simplified version of the Bible story found in Luke 13:6-9, written for children to understand. For the original version, please refer to the Bible passage.

Once upon a time, Jesus told a story about a man who had a fig tree in his garden. He would come every year to see if there were any figs on it, but he couldn’t find any. For three years in a row, the man couldn’t find any figs on the tree, so he decided to cut it down. He thought it was a waste of space since it wasn’t producing any fruit.

The gardener who took care of the tree heard what the man said and asked him to give the tree another year. “Sir, please let me take care of the tree for one more year,” said the gardener. “I will dig around it and put manure on it to help it grow better. If it bears fruit next year, then that’s great. But if not, you can cut it down.”

Jesus told this story to teach us that just like the man in the story, God wants us to bear fruit too. If we don’t, we are like the barren fig tree that is just taking up space. But just like the gardener in the story, God is patient with us. He gives us time to grow and learn, and he provides everything we need to bear fruit.

Biblical Lessons

  • We should be grateful for the second chances and opportunities that God gives us to grow and change.
  • Just like the gardener in the story, we can intercede for others and help them to grow and bear fruit.
  • We should not judge others too quickly or give up on them too easily, but instead show them the same patience and kindness that God shows us.
  • If we are not producing fruit in our lives, we may need to examine our hearts and ask God to help us change and grow.

Related Stories

The Parable of the Sower

The Parable of the Talents

The Parable of the Good Samaritan

The Parable of the Prodigal Son

The Parable of the Lost Sheep