Commentaries:
Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown
he answering, etc.—Christ, as Intercessor, loath to see it cut down so long as there was any hope (see Luke 13:34).
dig, etc.—loosen the earth about it and enrich it with manure; pointing to changes of method in the divine treatment of the impenitent, in order to freshen spiritual culture.
fig tree—Israel, as the visible witness of God in the world, but generally all within the pale of the visible Church of God; a familiar figure (compare Isaiah 5:1-7; John 15:1-8, etc.).
vineyard—a spot selected for its fertility, separated from the surrounding fields, and cultivated with special care, with a view solely to fruit.
came and sought fruit—a heart turned to God; the fruits of righteousness; compare Matthew 21:33-34, and Isaiah 5:2, "He looked that it should bring forth fruit"; He has a right to it, and will require it.
Other Jamieson, Fausset, and Brown entries containing Luke 13:8:
Ezekiel 15:6
Daniel 9:27
Luke 13:1-3
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