MESSAGE:

Series: Christ the _______

Mediator

In the Netflix exclusive, House of Cards, Francis Underwood vows revenge on the government that stiffed him of political advancement. He cunningly speaks to senators and officials on behalf of the government he swore to serve, telling them lies and deceptions that only benefit his career. He cons his way into becoming Vice President, destroying relationships and careers in the process. He is an evil mediator.

A mediator is a connecting role, bringing two parties together for a partnership. In most cases, the mediator is the expert who can navigate a deal between two agendas that would never work together. In the Middle East conflicts, America would send a mediator to discuss peace options with warlords and powerful rulers. America’s army has no trouble disposing of a threat, but the mediator could make a peace option work.

That is Jesus’ chief role in Heaven. In the parable of the fig tree, a farmer expects the tree to yield good fruit but finds the tree neglecting its duties. Instead of the farmer hacking the undeveloped tree to bits, a farmhand mediated between them. He asks for an extension to the tree’s life while he adds some necessary water, food, and sunlight to build it up.

When Jesus connects us to his Father, he defends our case and offers to help us carry out our side of the relationship.

Research: Luke 13:6-9

In the parable, what right does the farmer have over the tree? 

Why does the farmhand want to give the tree an extension of life? Why does the farmer trust the farmhand?

How is Jesus working in your life to build you up and connect you to God?