NOTES for Luk 13:1-9
1 There were present at that season some that told him of the Galilaeans, whose blood Pilate had mingled with their sacrifices. |
2 And Jesus answering said unto them, Suppose ye that these Galilaeans were sinners above all the Galilaeans, because they suffered such things? |
3 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. |
4 Or those eighteen, upon whom the tower in Siloam fell, and slew them, think ye that they were sinners above all men that dwelt in Jerusalem? |
5 I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish. |
6 He spake also this parable; A certain man had a fig tree planted in his vineyard; and he came and sought fruit thereon, and found none. |
7 Then said he unto the dresser of his vineyard, Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? |
8 And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it: |
9 And if it bear fruit, well: and if not, then after that thou shalt cut it down. |
Hide
When we picture God as this world's executioner, we usually suppose that He deliberately sends specific disasters in order to punish particular people. This idea was widespread in the days of the earthly life of the Lord Jesus Christ as well. When people told Him about the Galileans killed by Pilate, those who told Him most certainly asked (or implied) the question: why? In the same way, after the healing of the man born blind, the disciples ask who sinned, this man or his parents. Why did people die when no specific guilt is known against them, greater than that of others?
And the Lord has to repeat again and again what had already been said more than once through the prophets of Israel: "unless you repent, you will all perish in the same way." Strictly speaking, the fact that the cause of our disasters lies in our not needing God is fairly obvious, but in our own time, when thousands of ordinary people die as a result of terrorist attacks and catastrophes, it is very important for us to take this well to heart. God is not an executioner, but our Defender, our Savior. But in order to take refuge in that protection, we must trust Him, seek Him with all our heart, and turn to Him.
Readings for 20 November 2025
After registering, you can subscribe to any Bible reading plan. Personalized settings and other services for registered users are planned, so we recommend registering now. Registration is free. | ||
