Let’s Have Faith of Almond Tree (Jer 1:10-12)
What makes a great leader? A brave leader may be necessary in times of war, while a virtuous and wise leader is important in times of peace. The main question is: what kind of church is needed in the end times?
Jeremiah’s Mission
Jeremiah was called to be a prophet during a challenging time in Israel’s history, spanning from King Josiah’s reign to the fall of Jerusalem under King Zedekiah. He conveyed a message of surrender to Babylon as the only way to survive, because this was God’s will. His message was controversial, and Jeremiah was seen as a traitor. He was imprisoned and even thrown into a well, yet he continued to speak God’s word faithfully. Despite opposition and danger, Jeremiah remained committed to his mission, showing unwavering trust in God’s plan.
Symbolism of the Almond Tree
The almond tree plays a significant symbolic role in this sermon. In Jeremiah’s vision, the almond tree represents God’s active vigilance over His word, ensuring it will come to pass. The Hebrew word for almond is ‘shaqed’, which means to stay awake, keeping watch, or be vigilant. This connection emphasizes the role of the church in the end times—to stay vigilant and awake, fulfilling its mission like a watchman guarding against threats.
The almond tree is further tied to the imagery of the golden lampstand in the tabernacle, which was shaped like almond blossoms. These items were described as shadows of heavenly things, indicating that the almond tree carries a deeper, spiritual significance in the Bible. This symbolise the church’s responsibility in the end times, calling on believers to stay alert and faithful.
Call to Stay Awake
One of the core messages of the sermon is the importance of staying awake and keeping watch, particularly in a spiritual sense. Genesis 2:15 is cited, where God instructed Adam to “keep” the garden, a term that implies both care and active protection. In the same way, believers are called to stay awake and keep their faith, actively guarding it against spiritual dangers.
It emphasizes that the church must act with courage and faith. Just as a courageous general does not fear battle, Christians must not shy away from spiritual conflict when necessary to preserve the purity of faith. This battle is not physical but one of maintaining truth, keeping faith, and standing firm in a world that may oppose God’s word.
Prayer as Vigilance
Prayer is presented as a key component of staying awake. The sermon cites Matthew 26:41, where Jesus urges his disciples to “keep watching and praying” to avoid temptation. The message here is that prayer is not merely a request for personal desires but a way to align with God’s will and timing. By staying awake through prayer, believers maintain their connection to God and remain vigilant against spiritual dangers.
Conflict in Faith
The sermon delves into the idea of conflict, particularly in preserving the purity of faith. It challenges the notion that Christians should always avoid conflict, arguing that sometimes conflict is necessary to uphold the truth. An example is given of a homosexual pastor who preaches love but disregards certain biblical teachings, adapting Jesus’ message to fit contemporary desires. This is critiqued as creating a false image of Jesus, one that suits personal needs rather than adhering to Scripture.
The importance of Scripture is emphasized, with the sermon referencing the Reformers of the 16th century, who, despite their disagreements, unanimously upheld the authority of Scripture. The unchanging nature of truth is highlighted—truth cannot shift with the times; it must remain constant. This is why it is so important to stay vigilant, guarding against any dilution or distortion of the faith.
The Word of God Will Triumph
Despite the pressures of modern laws and anti-discrimination acts that may challenge traditional biblical teachings, the sermon assures believers that God’s word will always triumph. An example is drawn from the story of Aaron’s staff in Numbers 17:8, which budded, blossomed, and bore almonds as a sign of God’s chosen leader. Just as life emerged from a dead staff, God’s word will always bring life and triumph over opposition.
The almond blossoms on Aaron’s staff symbolize new life, resurrection, and the fulfilment of God’s promises. Even in difficult or oppressive circumstances, God’s word is alive and will continue to grow and bear fruit.
Conclusion: The Almond Tree as a Symbol for Believers
The sermon concludes by encouraging believers to have faith like the almond tree. Just as the almond tree blooms early, signifying vigilance and readiness, the church and believers must remain awake and alert in their faith. Through prayer, adherence to Scripture, and unwavering commitment to God’s truth, new spiritual buds will emerge, flowers will bloom, and there will be an abundant harvest of fruit.
In these last days, the church is called to stand on God’s side, fulfilling its role as a vigilant watchman, much like the almond tree that watches over the word of God. By doing so, the church and individual believers can expect spiritual growth and victory, even in the face of adversity.
Believers are urged to stay faithful, awake, and steadfast in the word and prayer, believing that new spiritual life will arise as a result.
This message, rooted in the symbolism of the almond tree, serves as a call for vigilance, prayer, and preservation of faith, especially in challenging and uncertain times.
The Lord's Covenant Church Malaysia 