Table of Contents
The tree represents the inner being or person, specifically a pastor or shepherd born from the seed of God’s word. Jesus refers to himself as the “true vine” (John 15:1) in contrast to false vines or trees. The branches represent disciples connected to Jesus. Leaves symbolize evangelists who bring healing to the nations. The fruit represents the words or teachings that lead to new believers being “born” from the seed of God’s word. Birds can figuratively represent spirits – either God’s Holy Spirit or evil spirits. There are two types of “trees” – the tree of life (God’s true vine or church) and the tree of the knowledge of good and evil (false vines or churches of Satan). The lesson emphasizes discerning which spiritual “tree” one is connected to through examining the teachings against Scripture. It warns against being disconnected from the true vine and becoming unfruitful or a dwelling for evil spirits.
Shincheonji holds distinct theological views that differ from mainstream Christian denominations, yet it also shares some common teachings. This overlap can sometimes blur the lines between their beliefs and those of traditional Christianity. Therefore, it is essential to exercise critical thinking and discernment to differentiate between these shared elements and the unique doctrines they present.
While their interpretations warrant careful examination through a critical and biblical lens, it is equally important to approach these matters with an open yet discerning mindset.
The following notes were documented in person during Shincheonji’s 9-month Bible Study Seminar. They provide insight into the organization’s approach to introducing and explaining its beliefs to potential new members, often referred to as the ‘harvesting and sealing.’ This process is described as being ‘born again’ or ‘born of God’s seed,’ which involves uprooting the old beliefs and replanting new ones. This uprooting and replanting must occur continuously. By examining this process, we can gain a better understanding of the mindset and beliefs held by Shincheonji members.
Figurative meanings:
Tree: Inner being (person) born of the seed of the Word of (God), —-> Pastor or Shepherd
- Proverbs 3:18 – She is a tree of life to those who take hold of her; those who hold her fast will be blessed.
- Proverbs 11:30 – The fruit of the righteous is a tree of life, and the one who is wise saves lives.
- John 15:1 – I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener
- John 15:5 – I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
- Daniel 4 – Daniel 4 compares King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon, a figure of evil, to the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.
Bird: Spirit
- Matthew 3:16 – As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.
- Matthew 13:31-32 – He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.
- Luke 8:5 – A farmer went out to sow his seed. As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path; it was trampled on, and the birds ate it up.
- Luke 8:12 – Those along the path are the ones who hear, and then the devil comes and takes away the word from their hearts, so that they may not believe and be saved.
- Revelation 18:2 -With a mighty voice he shouted: “‘Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!’ She has become a dwelling for demons and a haunt for every impure spirit, a haunt for every unclean bird, a haunt for every unclean and detestable animal.
- Revelation 19:17 – And I saw an angel standing in the sun, who cried in a loud voice to all the birds flying in midair, “Come, gather together for the great supper of God
Unclean and Detestable bird: Evil Spirit
Branch: Disciple
- John 15:4 – Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Leaf: Evangelist
- Revelation 22:1-2 – Then the angel showed me the river of the water of life, as clear as crystal, flowing from the throne of God and of the Lamb 2 down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
- Ezekiel 47:12 – Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.
Fruit: Saints born through the word
- Matthew 12:33-35 – Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.
- James 1:18 – He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
Secrets of Heaven: Figurative Tree and Bird
A figurative Tree and Bird represent:
Tree: Inner being (person) born of the seed of the Word of (God), —-> Pastor or Sherper
Bird: Spirit
Let’s review what we learned in the previous lesson. We learned about the four Fields where seeds are sown.
Three of those fields fail to produce a crop. The seed lands on them but either gets taken away by evil spirits because it does not penetrate the soil like the path, meaning someone’s heart who does not understand. Or the seed goes in and begins to grow with joy, but its roots in the soil are shallow because of rocks. It cannot withstand life’s trials, tribulations and persecutions, so it does not mature. The third, where the seed falls among thorns, also fails. Here the word is received and begins to grow, but the worries, issues, problems and pleasures of the world crowd out the word so there is no room for it to properly take root, grow and produce fruit.
But the seed on good soil hears the word, understands it, retains it, and perseveres, meaning it overcomes the hard ground (path), rocks and thorns to produce a crop. That is the ultimate goal and reason why God gives us His word – so that we bear fruit.
Let’s strive to be like the good soil when opportunities arise. The odds are only 25% based on the parable. Not good odds, meaning we must actively fight, as Jesus said in Luke 13, to “make every effort” to enter through the narrow door. We tend to ignore this verse. Many assume a lot of people will be saved, but Jesus said very few find the narrow path. What He actually said is “make every effort” – it’s a fight worth undertaking.
Figurative Tree
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.
Jesus is speaking here. He states “I am the true vine” and that “God is the gardener.” Jesus uses the term “true” to describe himself as the vine to distinguish himself from false things that also exist.
Similarly, in John 17:3 Jesus refers to “the only true God” to make clear that there are false gods as well. By using the descriptor “true” with vine and God, Jesus qualifies his statements to affirm his legitimate, authentic nature, and God’s, in contrast to inaccurate depictions that may arise. The metaphor of Jesus as the vine and God as the gardener cultivating the vine underscores their connection and relationship.
Overall, Jesus articulates his identity as the “true vine” rooted in and nurtured by God, the gardener, who prunes and cares for the growth of the genuine vine, as opposed to false vines that do not hold the same significance of representing the Son of God.
Reminder:
Jesus = True vine
God = Gardener
I want to show an impressive photo of a vine, one of the largest in the world. It is quite fascinating. Can everyone see the image? Observe this remarkable plant. When I first saw this, I did not realize vines are actually trees. They are indeed trees. Of course, they can be trained to grow along structures, but left standing alone, they adopt a very tree-like form.
Vines such as these likely resemble what would have also thrived in the Middle East during Jesus’s time. How magnificent is this vine? Quite splendid, is it not? And it is producing abundant grapes. So keep this picture in mind as we go through today’s lesson. This is the type of vine Jesus references when he states ‘I am the true vine.
Main Reference
The Parable of the Mustard Seed
31 He told them another parable: “The kingdom of heaven is like a mustard seed, which a man took and planted in his field. 32 Though it is the smallest of all seeds, yet when it grows, it is the largest of garden plants and becomes a tree, so that the birds come and perch in its branches.”
This is a powerful parable that illustrates profound truths. Let’s analyze this parable to gain insight.
The Kingdom of Heaven is often described metaphorically as a tree. If asked to describe heaven, one could depict it as a tree – not literally, but figuratively. What meaning does this tree metaphor convey?
A tree begins as a tiny seed, even as small as a mustard seed. Yet when planted, it grows into the largest of garden plants. This exemplifies God’s approach – He often starts small but accomplishes great things through these humble beginnings.
Consider biblical examples: Adam and Eve were just two people, yet spawned many descendants. Noah’s family of eight were the only flood survivors, yet repopulated the earth. Jesus was born in a small manger in little Bethlehem, yet saved the whole world. Truly, God leverages small starts to achieve great ends.
So when we feel small or insignificant, we must not discount ourselves or limit God’s potential in us. God brought you here to receive this message for a reason. Like the mustard seed, God’s word planted in you can grow into something great and far-reaching.
To understand the metaphor, let’s examine the physical traits of a tree to grasp their spiritual significance.
The parable teaches that the Word of God, planted in our hearts, can start small yet grow into something that provides blessing and refuge to many.
Reminder:
Mustard Seed —–> Large Tree
1. Physical characteristics: Tree
A tree begins its life as a seed.
1. The seed grows into a sapling and eventually into a mature tree.
2. When a tree reaches full maturity, it provides habitat for birds and other wildlife. Birds will perch and nest in suitable trees.
Mature trees become an integral part of the local ecosystem. Their branches provide places for birds to perch and nest. Other animals also make their homes in and around mature trees. Trees support a diversity of life as they grow.
2. Tree: Spiritual Meaning
The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the nation of Israel, and the people of Judah are the vines he delighted in. And he looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress.
So, Isaiah 5:1-7 is a very sad prophecy. In fact, it is so sad that we need to examine the context to fully understand it.
I will sing for the one I love a song about his vineyard:
My loved one had a vineyard on a fertile hillside.
2 He dug it up and cleared it of stones and planted it with the choicest vines.
He built a watchtower in it and cut out a winepress as well.
Then he looked for a crop of good grapes, but it yielded only bad fruit.
3 “Now you dwellers in Jerusalem and people of Judah, judge between me and my vineyard.
4 What more could have been done for my vineyard than I have done for it?
When I looked for good grapes, why did it yield only bad?
5 Now I will tell you what I am going to do to my vineyard:
I will take away its hedge, and it will be destroyed;
I will break down its wall, and it will be trampled.
6 I will make it a wasteland, neither pruned nor cultivated, and briers and thorns will grow there.
I will command the clouds not to rain on it.”
7 The vineyard of the Lord Almighty is the nation of Israel, and the people of Judah
are the vines he delighted in. And he looked for justice, but saw bloodshed; for righteousness, but heard cries of distress.
It’s important to really comprehend these words, as you can feel God’s sorrow as he laments over those who were once his beloved people.
What did God say about these people? “I nurtured them. I gave them water and sunlight. I did everything for them, yet when I looked to see the fruit they produced, I saw only bad grapes.” This is why Jesus said at his first coming “I am the true vine.” As prophesied, there were false vines everywhere, vines that only produced bad fruit.
This metaphor helps explain why God sent his Son to save us – there was bad fruit everywhere. Let’s examine another prophecy that elaborates further.
Therefore this is what the Lord God Almighty says:
“Because the people have spoken these words, I will make my words in your mouth a fire and these people the wood it consumes.
What did God communicate through the Prophet Jeremiah? It’s interesting to note a parable within his words, which we will explore in greater detail in upcoming lessons. He metaphorically stated that the people would be like wood consumed by fire. In this context, the tree and the wood symbolize individuals or people.
Reminder:
Tree (Wood) = Person (People)
3. Jesus and his disciples = Tree
ONE – Tree
“I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener. 2 He cuts off every branch in me that bears no fruit, while every branch that does bear fruit he prunes[a] so that it will be even more fruitful. 3 You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you. 4 Remain in me, as I also remain in you. No branch can bear fruit by itself; it must remain in the vine. Neither can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
5 “I am the vine; you are the branches. If you remain in me and I in you, you will bear much fruit; apart from me you can do nothing.
Let’s begin by sketching a comprehensive tree diagram based on the parable Jesus shares with us. Our aim is to forge connections that will illuminate the subject in a profound way.
Imagine viewing this concept with a fresh perspective, with eyes wide open to new interpretations. In this parable, Jesus likens himself to a tree, stating in the first verse, ‘I am the true vine, and my Father is the gardener.’
We’ll depict two key elements here: first, God, who is above and master of this tree, caring for it as a gardener would, pruning and nurturing. When one observes a tree, attention often gravitates towards the canopy or leaves, yet the essence of the tree lies within its trunk.
Therefore, we’ll represent Jesus at the base of our diagram, anchoring the tree as its trunk, embodying the vine.
Referencing John 15:1, ‘I am the True Vine,’ we are reminded that a tree originates from a seed. Beneath our tree in the diagram, let’s place a seed to signify the beginning of growth. I encourage everyone to participate in this drawing exercise. Visualize and sketch the seed beneath the tree, symbolizing God’s word, which is the seed from which all growth springs.
Reminder:
The real tree is the trunk, God’s seed, which is The word.
For I gave them the words you gave me and they accepted them. They knew with certainty that I came from you, and they believed that you sent me.
In John 17, Jesus prays for his disciples shortly before his arrest and crucifixion. Verse 8 highlights how Jesus passed on God’s message to the disciples, and they fully accepted it.
Jesus gave the disciples the words God gave him, and the disciples took those words into their hearts. They understood with certainty that Jesus came from God, and they believed God sent Jesus.
When Jesus gave the disciples God’s message, it became part of them, like a grafted tree. The disciples accepted God’s word like a seed, allowing it to take root and grow within them through faith.
Jesus prays that as the disciples continue preaching without him physically present, God will keep blessing, guiding, and leading them in the truth. He wants God’s message to continue spreading through the disciples even after his death and resurrection.
TWO – Branches:
Let us revisit John 15:1 – “I am the true vine, and the Father God is the gardener.” What does Jesus say next? God cuts off any branch in me that bears no fruit, while pruning every fruitful branch to make it even more productive. You are already clean because of the word I have spoken to you.
Verse 3 carries significant importance, and we’ll delve into its intricacies later. When Jesus refers to figurative water, it denotes a profound concept that we’ll explore in depth.
Verse 4 is key: “Remain in me, and I will remain in you.” No branch can bear fruit unless attached to the vine, nor can you bear fruit unless you remain in me.
Verse 5 – What does Jesus say here? “I am the vine and you are the branches.” To whom is Jesus speaking? His twelve disciples. Let us visualize twelve branches, representing each of the twelve disciples, connected to Jesus the vine.
The key messages here are that Jesus is the source of life and fruitfulness for believers, and we must remain closely connected to him by faith in order to bear spiritual fruit. He prunes and cleanses believers to make them more fruitful. The twelve disciples represent all followers of Christ.
THREE – Leaves:
What grows on branches? Leaves. Leaves also grow on branches. So do leaves have a figurative meaning? Yes, leaves can have figurative meanings.
Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing.”
The fruit will serve as food, and the leaves will be used for healing. This is truly fascinating. So, what exactly requires healing? Let’s explore the answer in the Book of Revelation.
down the middle of the great street of the city. On each side of the river stood the tree of life, bearing twelve crops of fruit, yielding its fruit every month. And the leaves of the tree are for the healing of the nations.
The significance of the tree’s leaves: What requires healing?
The tree’s leaves represent the healing of nations. It’s essential to recognize that this tree is not a literal one but rather a symbol with consistent meaning from Genesis to Revelation. Jesus referred to himself as the vine and his disciples as branches, indicating a spiritual connection rather than a physical tree.
The tree’s source symbolizes the leader, such as a pastor or shepherd. The individuals closest to this leader are the disciples. Operating under divine guidance, their organization naturally seeks to help others find healing and align with God’s will. These individuals, referred to as evangelists, are entrusted with the mission of bringing healing to the nations.
Evangelists, symbolized by the leaves of the tree, represent the healing of nations.
The most crucial aspect that requires healing is the heart. While physical ailments may also need attention, it is the healing of people’s hearts that holds the utmost importance.
Jesus’s greatest healing was the restoration of people’s hearts through the power of his word.
FOUR – Fruit:
What then should be said of the fruit? It is the fruit that grows from the tree. The primary objective is to bear fruit and yield a harvest. This echoes the biblical directive to ‘be fruitful and multiply,’ a command given by God in the past. But what exactly constitutes the fruits? These are the products of the tree.
33 “Make a tree good and its fruit will be good, or make a tree bad and its fruit will be bad, for a tree is recognized by its fruit. 34 You brood of vipers, how can you who are evil say anything good? For the mouth speaks what the heart is full of. 35 A good man brings good things out of the good stored up in him, and an evil man brings evil things out of the evil stored up in him.
A good tree bears good fruit, and a bad tree bears bad fruit. This illustrates the logic of God. If the disciples remain connected to what is good, they too can be good. However, the moment they disconnect from what is good, they can no longer be good. And they perish in that state.
The fruit here is being compared to what flows out of the heart. As the saying goes, the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.
There are two definitions of fruit:
ONE – The concept of ‘ someone’s fruit’ is reflected in their words. By listening attentively, we can discern the nature of a person. The act of listening is not just a passive activity; it is a crucial tool for discernment.
When we encounter someone, we might sense that something within them is amiss, and often, it is revealed through their speech. This is because the contents of one’s heart are inevitably expressed through their words. It’s a form of diagnosis, if you will.
To speak truthfully and with integrity, the words must first be present within us. This brings us to the practice of home blessing and memorization. As these words take root in our hearts, our conversations naturally become an outpouring of these internalized truths.
We can’t help but speak them; they overflow from us effortlessly. Let us strive to embody this principle.
Reminder:
Fruit ——–> Words
TWO – The second meaning of fruit.
He chose to give us birth through the word of truth, that we might be a kind of firstfruits of all he created.
He chose to give us birth through the Word of Truth so that we might become a kind of first fruits. In the context of the Old Testament, the first fruits were the initial yield from the harvest, which those who worked the fields would offer back to God as a sign of gratitude for the blessing of the crop.
Thus, when we speak of ‘first fruits’ in a figurative sense, referring to people, it signifies the initial group of individuals dedicated to God. This is the underlying rationale. Consequently, a healthy tree aims to produce more healthy individuals.
Saints, born of the Word, are akin to fruits that emerge from the teachings of evangelists. Just as fruits are the result of nurturing growth, so too are believers grown from such evangelistic efforts, (discipleship). Is this concept clear?”
The tree represents the leader, the shepherd, and the pastor. His disciples are close to him, attached to him, and they produce others who go out and spread the word they have received in order to bring more people.
So, when Jesus said, ‘If you are disconnected from me, you will be unfruitful. You cannot work unless you are connected to me.’ Are we understanding?
Therefore, the tree represents the pastor of God and his organization.
Reminder:
Fruit ——–> Saints born of the Word
Up to this point, we have diagrammed the large tree with its branches, leaves, and fruit. However, there is one more aspect we have not yet covered: what is missing from this scene? This place represented by the tree looks like a beautiful home. What needs to be included for it to fully depict an ideal dwelling place? Birds are missing. Birds need to be able to perch on the branches and nestle into this location. So what could these birds represent metaphorically? Who do they symbolize in relation to the tree?
FIVE – Birds:
As soon as Jesus was baptized, he went up out of the water. At that moment heaven was opened, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and alighting on him.
When Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist, the heavens opened and he saw the Spirit of God descending upon him like a dove – a bird. Figuratively, when reading prophecy and scripture, the mention of a bird can represent the Spirit.
Spirits have the freedom to transit and move about to do their work, much like birds that fly from here to there. Birds are often in one place and then another, quickly moving about before disappearing. Spirits can transit like birds.
Now that we have understood the full parable of the tree, let’s dive deeper by discussing the two types – there are always two types, so frustrating.
Reminder:
God’s seed = The Word (John 17:8, John 15:1)
Jesus = True Vine (John 15:1)
Branches = Disciples (John 15:5
Leaves = Healing of the nations, Evangelists Ezekial 47:12, Revelation 22:2)
Fruit = Words and Saints born of the Word (Matthew 12:33-35, James 1:18)
Bird = Spirit (Matthew 3:16)
4. Types of Trees
There are two types of trees: God’s tree and Satan’s tree. Unfortunately, Satan’s tree also exists.
What are the characteristics:
ONE – God’s tree = a true pastor and his organization.
Recall the initial hope we shared—to be part of the correct tree. This becomes especially significant as we approach the time of the second coming. I trust that each of us is engaging in discernment regarding these critical subjects. Indeed, to discern well is key.
TWO – It is the opposite.
Satan’s tree = A false pastor. And is organization.
In this discussion, we’re drawing parallels between a tree and organizational structures on a grand scale. This can be likened to a field.
We refer to the first as ‘God’s tree,’ which symbolizes a true pastor and their organization. In contrast, ‘Satan’s tree’ represents a false pastor with their respective organization, also viewed on a large scale.
Focusing on the initial link, Jesus established Himself as ‘The True Vine.’ During His first coming, ‘The True Vine’ was Jesus alongside His disciples. Those who were connected with Jesus and His disciples were said to possess life. What did He say exactly? He mentioned that anyone connected to Him and His disciples would have life.
Jesus answered, “I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.
Jesus was, and is, ‘The Way, the Truth, and the Life.’
Furthermore, Jesus is referred to as the ‘True Vine,’ symbolically representing a tree.
Many believed that the Tree of Life had vanished after the events mentioned in Genesis. However, it reemerged with the first coming of Jesus. Alongside His disciples, they bore fruit through Jesus’s teachings, which are a source of light. Thus, when one embraces Jesus’s words, they receive life. Remarkable, isn’t it?
Reminder:
Jesus = Tree of Life
We explored the concept of two contrasting trees: one belonging to Satan and the other to God.
Satan’s tree can be likened to wild vines, which are known for yielding only bad grapes. This imagery draws from Isaiah 5:1-7, which we discussed earlier. These wild vines symbolize the spiritual state during the time of Jesus’ first coming.
The Pharisees and Sadducees, along with their respective organizations, were compared to these wild vines. This comparison underscores the reason Jesus declared Himself to be the ‘True Vine’—to distinguish Himself from those who had gone astray, producing fruit that was not genuine but rather filled with deceit and falsehood.
Jesus elaborates on this in John 8:41-44, where He speaks of the devil as the father of lies.
To further understand this concept, we looked at a prophecy found in Deuteronomy 32:32-33, which sheds light on the nature of those who would exhibit such deceptive characteristics.
32 Their vine comes from the vine of Sodom and from the fields of Gomorrah.
Their grapes are filled with poison, and their clusters with bitterness.
33 Their wine is the venom of serpents, the deadly poison of cobras.
Their actions bear harmful consequences, akin to venom and the poison of serpents, such as cobras and snakes. Jesus referred to a certain group of people, likening their behavior to these dangerous creatures.
“You snakes! You brood of vipers! How will you escape being condemned to hell?
In the passage provided, Jesus is addressing the Pharisees, referring to them as a “brood of vipers.” This comparison is reminiscent of a particular snake that is mentioned when the story of the two trees is first introduced. This imagery can be traced back to the story of Adam and Eve, where a serpent played a pivotal role. There are numerous connections to be made here.
It is exciting to see how revelations unfold and to gain an understanding of the interconnectedness of the Bible. It’s crucial to delve deeply into scripture because the Bible is self-explanatory. There is no need for additional books to understand it; the Bible alone suffices.
Praise be to God. Regarding the two types of trees mentioned, they first appeared in Genesis and are mentioned again in relation to both the first and second comings of Christ. As we continue our studies, we will discover how they reappear.
While we should save our questions about the second coming for later, we get a hint of it in Revelation 22. This chapter describes a tree within the holy city whose leaves have the power to heal nations.
We’ve covered a lot of ground today. It’s crucial that we take the time to fully understand and absorb the material we’ve discussed.
Figurative Bird
The significance of figurative birds, which are crucial for bringing the concepts together. Similarly, just as there are two types of trees, there are also two types of birds.
1. Birds: Physical characteristics
1. Birds are free to fly wherever they like.
2. Birds settle on branches that are suitable for them, often referred to as perching on trees, where they make their homes.
2. Birds: Spiritual Meaning
There are two types of birds: birds of God and birds of Satan.
ONE – God’s birds = Are holy.
Like Matthew 3:16. And we also see God’s birds that are holy in Revelation 19:17. We’ll get into this content later. Revelation 19:17.
TWO – Satan’s birds = Which are evil spirits.
And I do want us to read about these spirits.
After this I saw another angel coming down from heaven. He had great authority, and the earth was illuminated by his splendor. 2 With a mighty voice he shouted:
“‘Fallen! Fallen is Babylon the Great!’ She has become a dwelling for demons and a haunt for every impure spirit, a haunt for every unclean bird, a haunt for every unclean and detestable animal.
Babylon the Great has fallen, has fallen.
It has become a dwelling for demons, a haunt for every impure spirit, and a refuge for every unclean bird. So, we must ask ourselves, what kind of dwelling place shall we become? On an individual level, we are like trees that grow from the seed planted within our hearts, which are like a field.
We will either grow into a tree of God or a tree of Satan. We will become either wheat or weeds. The choice is ours to make. Let us choose to be trees of life, bearing the seed of God within us.
Memorization
Instructor Review
SUMMARY
Jesus referred to himself as the True Vine and his followers as the branches. This imagery is rich with meaning, especially when we consider how leaves grow from branches on a tree. These leaves symbolize healing for the nations, a concept we find in both Ezekiel 47 and Revelation 22. Those who dedicate themselves to healing work—mending people’s hearts with the word of truth—are tasked with bearing fruit. This fruitfulness is measured in multiples: thirty, sixty, or even a hundredfold of what has been invested in them.
The goal is to draw others who will hear and respond to the same word, just as the disciples did. How effective were the disciples in this endeavor? Remarkably so, considering that two billion people have come to faith through their efforts. Their example is one of extraordinary fruitfulness.
In our own lives, we must be vigilant, as Jesus warned in Matthew 12. He spoke of an evil spirit leaving a person only to return with more. We must not allow ourselves to become a home for such negativity. Instead, let’s strive to be a residence for the Holy Spirit, a place where God’s presence can dwell.
So, we must ask ourselves: Are we discerning about which ‘tree’ we are connected to? If we find ourselves disconnected, lying on the ground, we risk becoming like fallen fruit that eventually decays.
Let’s not become like rotting fruit. Instead, let’s be part of a living tree, and if you haven’t found your tree yet, be patient. You will discover the right one through the word.
When it comes to discerning where you belong, patience is essential. But don’t rely solely on emotions or intellectual comfort. Instead, discern through the lens of scripture: Are the teachings you hear aligned with biblical truth? Listen carefully and validate what you hear against the scriptures.
Let’s commit to this path of discernment and growth.
Review with the Evangelist
Review
Today, we explored the figurative tree and bird in our lesson. Let’s begin by examining the physical attributes of a tree. Understanding these characteristics is crucial because they help us visualize and grasp the deeper meaning of each parable.
Why is this important? It’s essential to identify with the correct ‘tree,’ as the parables often use physical elements to convey spiritual truths. By recognizing the physical traits, we can form a clearer image of the parable’s message.
Is there a specific scripture that illustrates this point? Certainly, Matthew 13 is a prime example. This chapter links parables to the Kingdom of Heaven, reinforcing the importance of understanding their symbolic language to comprehend the spiritual lessons they impart.
Romans 1:20
For since the creation of the world God’s invisible qualities—his eternal power and divine nature—have been clearly seen, being understood from what has been made, so that people are without excuse.
Grasping the physical characteristics of things helps us understand the unseen and spiritual realms. Romans 1:20 is a verse we often reference, so let’s keep it in mind and heart. Consider the origin of a tree and its source.
A tree begins as a seed, growing into a sanctuary for birds and a bearer of fruit.
‘Trees’ have two symbolic meanings on different scales. On an individual scale, a tree represents rebirth through God’s word, like a seed, and symbolizes the role of a pastor. We should reflect on the nature of the seed within our own ‘field’—our hearts. To which type of tree do we belong?
When God’s seed takes root in our hearts, we grow into trees that are of God. On a broader scale, a ‘tree’ can represent an organization or church. It’s important to consider which ‘tree’ or teaching we are aligned with. The teachings we receive are akin to seeds.
Our lesson emphasizes the importance of being part of the right ‘tree.’ We’ve discussed the Tree of Life during Jesus’ first coming—Jesus himself. In John 15:1, Jesus is referred to as the True Vine.
So, why does Jesus stress that he is the True Vine?
He does so because there are false vines. In John 15:5, the branches are the disciples, right? Then who are the leaves? The leaves represent evangelists, as suggested by Exodus 47:12 and Revelation 22:2, which say that leaves bring healing to all nations. And the fruits? They symbolize the word of God and the saints born from God’s seed.
Just as an apple tree produces apples, not mangos, the seed found within an apple is an apple seed. This logic extends to our spiritual lives. If you are part of a place where God’s seed is sown, then the people of that church will also carry God’s seed within them. And the birds? They symbolize spirits.
There are two types of birds, representing two types of seeds and therefore two types of spirits: God’s spirit and Satan’s spirit. This distinction is crucial for us to understand the spirit we follow.
1 John 4:1
Now Jesus learned that the Pharisees had heard that he was gaining and baptizing more disciples than John—
God is warning us to let us test the spirits and discern.
Let’s Us Discern
Discernment is still a work in progress …. Proverbs 14:15 (ESV)
“The simple believes everything, but the prudent gives thought to his steps.”
Analysis
Questions to Self-Reflect
Outline
Secrets of Heaven: Decoding the Figurative Tree and Bird
I. Introduction
- Reviews the Parable of the Sower and the four fields where seeds are sown, emphasizing the importance of being “good soil” for God’s Word to take root and bear fruit.
- Introduces the concept of the “Figurative Tree and Bird” as symbolic representations in scripture, setting the stage for an in-depth exploration of their spiritual significance.
II. The Figurative Tree
- A. Jesus as the True Vine: Examines John 15:1, where Jesus identifies himself as the “true vine” and God as the gardener, emphasizing the authenticity of Jesus in contrast to “false vines” and highlighting the nurturing relationship between God and Jesus.
- B. The Parable of the Mustard Seed: Analyzes Matthew 13:31-32, demonstrating how the small mustard seed growing into a large tree symbolizes the Kingdom of Heaven and God’s ability to achieve great things from humble beginnings.
- C. Spiritual Meaning of the Tree:1. Physical Characteristics: Explores the life cycle of a tree, from a seed to a mature tree providing habitat for wildlife, drawing parallels to spiritual growth and the impact of believers on their surroundings.
- 2. Isaiah 5:7 & Jeremiah 5:14: Analyzes these passages to demonstrate the concept of “bad fruit” representing those who stray from God, emphasizing the need for Jesus as the “true vine” to offer redemption.
- D. Jesus and His Disciples as the Tree: Delves into John 15:1-5, visually mapping out the tree with Jesus as the trunk (vine), the disciples as the branches, leaves as evangelists bringing healing, and fruit as the Word of God and new believers.
- 1. The Trunk (Jesus): Explains the foundation of the tree is Jesus, rooted in the seed of God’s Word, highlighting John 17:8 and the disciples’ acceptance of Jesus’s teachings.
- 2. Branches (Disciples): Illustrates how the disciples are connected to Jesus, the source of life and fruitfulness, emphasizing the importance of remaining in Christ to bear spiritual fruit.
- 3. Leaves (Evangelists): Connects the leaves to Ezekiel 47:12 and Revelation 22:2, where leaves represent healing for nations, emphasizing the role of evangelists in spreading the Word and healing hearts.
- 4. Fruit (Words and Saints): Explores two meanings of fruit:
- a) Words as expressions of the heart (Matthew 12:33-35), emphasizing the impact of internalizing God’s Word and reflecting it in our speech.
- b) New believers as “first fruits” (James 1:18), illustrating the multiplication of believers through discipleship and evangelism.
- E. Two Types of Trees: Contrasts God’s tree (true pastor and organization) with Satan’s tree (false pastor and organization), drawing on John 14:6 (Jesus as the Way, Truth, and Life) and highlighting the need for discernment.
- 1. God’s Tree: Symbolizes the True Vine (Jesus) and His disciples, producing good fruit and offering life through connection with Christ.
- 2. Satan’s Tree: Likened to wild vines producing bad fruit (Isaiah 5:1-7), representing those who deceive and produce falsehoods, connecting to Deuteronomy 32:32-33 (poisonous fruit) and Matthew 23:33 (brood of vipers).
III. The Figurative Bird
- A. Physical Characteristics: Explores the freedom of birds to fly and perch wherever suitable, drawing parallels to the movement and agency of spirits.
- B. Spiritual Meaning: Differentiates between God’s birds (holy) and Satan’s birds (evil spirits).
- 1. God’s Birds: Connects to Matthew 3:16 (dove descending on Jesus) and Revelation 19:17 (holy birds).
- 2. Satan’s Birds: Examines Revelation 18:1-2, where unclean birds inhabit fallen Babylon, symbolizing demonic and impure spirits, prompting self-reflection on the spiritual dwelling we create within ourselves.
IV. Conclusion
- A. Summary: Reemphasizes the interconnectedness of the tree and bird symbols, highlighting the importance of being part of the right “tree” (true teachings and leadership) and harboring the right “bird” (Holy Spirit) within ourselves.
- B. Review: Reiterates key points, emphasizing the importance of understanding physical characteristics to decode spiritual meaning in parables (Matthew 13) and using discernment (Romans 1:20) to identify the “tree” (teaching and organization) we align with.
- C. Call to Action: Urges students to be vigilant in testing the spirits (1 John 4:1), choose the Tree of Life (Jesus and true teachings), and become a dwelling for the Holy Spirit.
A Study Guide
The Figurative Tree and Bird: A Study Guide
Quiz
Short Answer Questions (2-3 sentences each):
- What does the parable of the mustard seed teach us about the Kingdom of Heaven?
- Explain the symbolic meaning of the tree in the context of John 15:1-5.
- What does the term “true vine” tell us about Jesus’s identity and purpose?
- In Isaiah 5:1-7, what does the vineyard represent and why is God disappointed with it?
- What is the spiritual significance of the leaves on the figurative tree, according to Ezekiel 47:12 and Revelation 22:2?
- Describe the two meanings of “fruit” as presented in the source material.
- How does the concept of grafting apply to the disciples’ relationship with Jesus and God’s Word?
- Explain the difference between God’s Tree and Satan’s Tree, and what distinguishes them.
- What is the symbolic meaning of birds in the source material and how does this relate to Matthew 3:16?
- What is the key takeaway message from 1 John 4:1 in relation to the study of the figurative tree and bird?
Answer Key
- The parable of the mustard seed demonstrates that the Kingdom of Heaven, though starting small and seemingly insignificant, has the potential for immense growth and impact, ultimately providing shelter and sustenance.
- The tree in John 15:1-5 symbolizes Jesus as the life-giving source (the vine) and his followers as the branches who draw nourishment and fruitfulness from him. The gardener, God the Father, cultivates and prunes the branches for greater productivity.
- The term “true vine” emphasizes Jesus’s authentic and unique connection to God, setting him apart from false or misleading sources of spiritual truth. He is the true source of life and spiritual nourishment.
- The vineyard in Isaiah 5:1-7 represents the nation of Israel, whom God had carefully cultivated and nurtured. He is disappointed because they have failed to produce good fruit, instead yielding injustice and wickedness.
- The leaves on the figurative tree represent healing and restoration, specifically the healing of nations through the proclamation of God’s word and the spread of the gospel. Evangelists, who carry this message, are symbolized by the leaves.
- “Fruit” has two primary meanings: 1) The words that flow from a person’s heart, revealing their true nature and the quality of their spiritual life. 2) The new believers or “saints” who are born again through the word of God and become part of God’s Kingdom.
- The disciples received God’s word from Jesus and allowed it to become deeply ingrained in their hearts. This is analogous to grafting, where a branch from one tree is joined to another, creating a lasting connection. They became part of the “true vine” through this acceptance of God’s word and their faith in Jesus.
- God’s Tree represents a true pastor and their organization, characterized by faithful adherence to God’s word, bearing good fruit, and providing shelter to God’s Spirit. Satan’s Tree, on the other hand, signifies a false pastor and their organization, producing bad fruit, deception, and a dwelling place for evil spirits.
- Birds in the source material symbolize spirits. In Matthew 3:16, the Holy Spirit descends upon Jesus like a dove, signifying that God’s Spirit is pure and brings divine power. This contrasts with the “unclean birds” mentioned in Revelation 18:2, which represent evil spirits associated with falsehood and corruption.
- 1 John 4:1 warns us to be discerning and test the spirits we encounter. This connects to the study of the figurative tree and bird by emphasizing the need to carefully evaluate teachings, leaders, and spiritual influences to determine if they align with the truth of God’s word and the Holy Spirit.
Additional Questions:
1. What is the meaning of tree?
– The inner being (spirit) being form again through the seed of the word or an organization:
Branch = Disciples (John 15:5)
Leaves = Evangelists (Revelation 22:1-2)
Fruits = Words or a person born again of the word (John 1:18, Matthew 12:33-35)
2. What are the 2 types of birds and what trees do they perch on?
– Holy spirits —–> Tree of Life
– Evil spirits ——-> TOKOGAE, The Tree of Knowledge of Good and Evil
The source of all evil is Satan, who distorts God’s word by inserting false human interpretations.
This is represented by the tree of the knowledge of good and evil – a tree of mixing truths and lies. Our spiritual state is shaped by the ideas we internalize. The more we are transformed by God’s authentic word, the more He can work through us.
As we study this parable, let’s humbly examine our own lives rather than judging others. This passage calls believers to spiritual growth, so we must ask God to show us any areas needing more alignment to His truth.
3. How can you recognize the type of tree? By its fruit!
Glossary
- True Vine: A metaphorical term used by Jesus to describe himself, emphasizing his authentic connection to God and his role as the source of true spiritual nourishment.
- Branches: Represent the followers of Jesus, who draw life and sustenance from him as the vine.
- Leaves: Symbolize healing and restoration, particularly the healing of nations through the proclamation of the gospel by evangelists.
- Fruit: Has two meanings: 1) The words that reveal a person’s heart and spiritual state. 2) New believers who are born again through the Word of God.
- Grafting: A horticultural technique that joins a branch from one tree to another, symbolizing the disciples’ deep connection to Jesus and God’s Word.
- God’s Tree: Represents a true pastor and their organization, characterized by faithful teachings and the presence of the Holy Spirit.
- Satan’s Tree: Represents a false pastor and their organization, marked by deception, bad fruit, and the influence of evil spirits.
- Birds: Symbolize spirits, both the Holy Spirit (represented by the dove) and evil spirits (referred to as unclean birds).
- Discernment: The ability to distinguish between truth and falsehood, good and evil, and to make wise choices based on God’s Word and guidance.
- First Fruits: The initial yield of a harvest, offered back to God as an act of gratitude. Figuratively, it represents those who are dedicated to God and the first converts to Christianity.
- Evangelist: A person who proclaims the gospel and seeks to bring others to faith in Jesus Christ.
- Home Blessing and Memorization: The practices of speaking God’s word over one’s home and committing scripture to memory, allowing those words to shape one’s thoughts, speech, and actions.
Breakdown
Timeline of Events
This lesson does not provide a chronological timeline of events. It focuses on interpreting biblical parables and metaphors related to trees, birds, and spiritual growth. The teachings reference various points in biblical history from Genesis (Adam and Eve) to the New Testament (Jesus and the disciples). It also alludes to the second coming of Christ and the ultimate establishment of the Kingdom of Heaven.
Cast of Characters
1. God (The Gardener):
- The ultimate authority and source of life.
- Depicted as a gardener who tends to His vineyard (His people) and cultivates their growth.
- He prunes branches that bear no fruit and nurtures those that are fruitful.
- He judges the fruit produced by His people and is grieved when they yield bad fruit.
2. Jesus (The True Vine, The Tree of Life):
- The Son of God and the central figure of Christianity.
- He is the source of life, truth, and fruitfulness for believers.
- Depicted as the True Vine, a metaphor for a strong, life-giving tree rooted in God.
- He provides nourishment and guidance to His disciples, represented as branches connected to Him.
- He distinguishes Himself from false vines (false teachers and prophets) that produce bad fruit.
3. The Disciples (Branches):
- Jesus’s twelve closest followers who received His teachings and spread His message.
- Represented as branches connected to the True Vine (Jesus), receiving nourishment and guidance from Him.
- They are responsible for bearing fruit (spreading the Gospel, making disciples, and living righteous lives).
4. Evangelists (Leaves):
- Individuals dedicated to spreading the Gospel and healing the nations.
- Symbolically represented as leaves growing from the branches (disciples) of the tree.
- Their mission is to bring spiritual healing to people’s hearts through the word of God.
5. Saints (Fruit):
- Believers who are born again through faith in Jesus Christ.
- Represented as the fruit produced by the tree (the church).
- They are the result of the work of God, Jesus, the disciples, and evangelists.
- Their lives should reflect the goodness of God and the transformative power of His word.
6. Holy Spirit (Bird of God):
- The third person of the Trinity, God’s presence and power working in the world.
- Depicted as a bird that descends from heaven and alights on Jesus at His baptism.
- The Holy Spirit guides and empowers believers to live righteous lives and bear fruit.
7. Evil Spirits (Birds of Satan):
- Spiritual beings opposed to God and His purposes.
- Represented as unclean birds that inhabit places of spiritual darkness and falsehood.
- They seek to deceive and mislead people away from God and His truth.
8. False Pastors and Prophets (Satan’s Tree):
- Individuals who claim to represent God but teach false doctrines and lead people astray.
- Depicted as wild vines that produce bad fruit, symbolizing their deceitfulness and harmful teachings.
- They are associated with Satan, the ultimate source of falsehood and evil.
9. Pharisees and Sadducees:
- Jewish religious leaders during Jesus’s time who opposed His teachings and sought to discredit Him.
- Jesus criticizes them for their hypocrisy, legalism, and focus on outward appearances rather than genuine faith.
- They are associated with the wild vines that produce bad fruit, symbolizing their spiritual corruption and opposition to God’s truth.
Overview
Overview: Secret of Heaven: Figurative Tree and Bird
Main Theme: This lesson utilizes the metaphor of a tree and a bird to illustrate spiritual truths, focusing on the importance of discerning true teachings and being connected to the “right tree” – a representation of a true pastor and their organization.
Key Ideas & Facts:
The Parable of the Mustard Seed (Matthew 13:31-32):
- The Kingdom of Heaven is like a mustard seed, small in beginnings but growing into a large tree.
- God works through humble beginnings to achieve great things.
The Tree Metaphor:
- Tree: Represents the inner being, a pastor or shepherd.
- Seed: Represents the Word of God, the source of growth. (John 17:8, John 15:1)
- Trunk: Jesus Christ, the “True Vine,” the foundation of the tree. (John 15:1)
- Branches: The disciples and followers of Christ, connected to the vine for life. (John 15:5)
- Leaves: Evangelists, working to heal the nations through the Word. (Ezekiel 47:12, Revelation 22:2)
- Fruit: Words and actions reflecting the heart, and saints born of the Word. (Matthew 12:33-35, James 1:18)
Two Types of Trees:
- God’s Tree: A true pastor and their organization, characterized by alignment with the Word of God and producing good fruit.
- Satan’s Tree: A false pastor and their organization, characterized by deceit, falsehood, and bearing bad fruit.
Key Biblical References:
- John 15:1-5: Jesus as the True Vine, the importance of abiding in Him for fruitfulness.
- Isaiah 5:1-7: The vineyard as a metaphor for Israel, producing bad fruit due to unfaithfulness.
- Jeremiah 5:14: God’s word as fire, consuming those who reject it, metaphorically representing people as wood.
- Ezekiel 47:12 & Revelation 22:2: The leaves of the tree in the new Jerusalem providing healing for the nations.
- Matthew 12:33-35: A tree is known by its fruit, good trees bear good fruit and bad trees bear bad fruit.
- John 14:6: Jesus as the Way, the Truth, and the Life.
The Bird Metaphor:
- Bird: Represents the Spirit. (Matthew 3:16)
- God’s Birds: Holy spirits, working for God’s purposes.
- Satan’s Birds: Evil spirits, inhabiting places of spiritual darkness. (Revelation 18:1-2)
Discernment and Application:
- The lesson emphasizes the importance of discerning true teaching (God’s Tree) from false teaching (Satan’s Tree).
- Individuals are encouraged to examine the “fruit” of teachings and organizations, ensuring alignment with the Word of God.
- Connecting to the “right tree” is crucial for spiritual growth and fruitfulness.
- Patience and careful consideration of scriptural truth are necessary for discernment.
Key Quotes:
- “The Kingdom of Heaven is often described metaphorically as a tree…A tree begins as a tiny seed, even as small as a mustard seed. Yet when planted, it grows into the largest of garden plants.”
- “The parable teaches that the Word of God, planted in our hearts, can start small yet grow into something that provides blessing and refuge to many.”
- “The odds are only 25% based on the parable. Not good odds, meaning we must actively fight, as Jesus said in Luke 13, to ‘make every effort’ to enter through the narrow door.”
- “Jesus is the source of life and fruitfulness for believers, and we must remain closely connected to him by faith to bear spiritual fruit.”
- “The fruit here is being compared to what flows out of the heart. As the saying goes, the mouth speaks from the overflow of the heart.”
- “A good tree bears good fruit, and a bad tree bears bad fruit. This illustrates the logic of God.”
- “When God’s seed takes root in our hearts, we grow into trees that are of God.”
- “Let’s not become like rotting fruit. Instead, let’s be part of a living tree.”
Conclusion:
This lesson underscores the need for careful discernment in choosing spiritual guidance and emphasizes the importance of aligning oneself with the “true vine” – Jesus Christ – and His teachings. It highlights the role of the Holy Spirit in leading believers to truth and encourages individuals to be “trees of life,” bearing good fruit through their words and actions.
Q&A
Q&A: Figurative Trees and Birds in Scripture
1. What is the significance of the tree metaphor in the Bible?
The tree metaphor is used throughout the Bible to represent spiritual growth and the Kingdom of Heaven. Like a tree that starts as a small seed and grows into something large and fruitful, so too does God’s word planted in our hearts have the potential to transform us and bear fruit. The tree also symbolizes a leader, like a pastor, and their organization, with branches representing disciples, leaves representing evangelists who bring healing, and fruit representing both the words spoken and the new believers born through those words.
2. What is the meaning of Jesus calling himself the “True Vine”?
When Jesus calls himself the “True Vine” in John 15:1, he distinguishes himself from “false vines” that produce bad fruit. This refers to those religious leaders and organizations, like the Pharisees and Sadducees, whose teachings were not aligned with God’s truth. Jesus, as the True Vine, provides the source of life and nourishment for his followers, the branches.
3. How do leaves symbolize healing in the Bible?
In Ezekiel 47:12 and Revelation 22:2, leaves from the Tree of Life are described as having healing properties for the nations. This symbolizes the work of evangelists who, through sharing God’s word, help heal the hearts of people and bring them into a right relationship with God.
4. What are the two types of fruit discussed in the lesson?
The lesson describes two types of “fruit” in a spiritual context:
- Words: Our words reflect the condition of our hearts. When God’s word is planted within us, our speech will naturally overflow with truth and goodness.
- Saints born of the Word: These are the new believers who come to faith through the efforts of those who share God’s word. They are the result of spiritual growth and multiplication.
5. What is the spiritual meaning of birds in this context?
Just as there are two types of trees (God’s tree and Satan’s tree), there are also two types of birds. Birds can symbolize spirits, both holy spirits associated with God and evil spirits associated with Satan. The type of bird that “perches” in a tree reflects the spiritual nature of that tree and its fruit.
6. How can we discern between God’s tree and Satan’s tree?
We can discern between God’s tree and Satan’s tree by carefully examining the teachings and the fruit produced. Does the teaching align with scripture? Does it lead to genuine spiritual growth, good works, and love for others? Or does it promote division, falsehood, and self-righteousness? The true nature of a tree is revealed by its fruit.
7. What is the significance of the Tree of Life?
The Tree of Life, present in the Garden of Eden, represents eternal life and access to God. After the fall of humanity, access to the Tree of Life was lost. However, Jesus, as the “True Vine,” reestablishes access to the Tree of Life for those who believe in him. In Revelation 22, the Tree of Life is present in the New Jerusalem, offering healing and sustenance to all who partake.
8. What is the main takeaway from the lesson on figurative trees and birds?
This lesson emphasizes the importance of being connected to the right “tree” – Jesus Christ. We must be discerning about the teachings we receive and the spiritual influences we allow into our lives. We should strive to be like trees planted by streams of water, bearing good fruit and providing a haven for the Holy Spirit.