He is using the fig tree as an image of what it looks like when people know the truth, but do not live accordingly. The withered fig tree is a powerful symbol of what Jesus can do within us, rooting out our negative thought patterns and destructive desires to the point where they seem to wither away and die — from the roots. Should you forgive? Just as garments protect the body, truth protects the soul. He has already told His disciples on three occasions. The items listed here are provided courtesy of our friends at the General Church of the New Jerusalem. I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you." That "thorns" and "briers" signify evils and falsities, see Chapter 5:6; 7:23, 24, 25, the Exposition; and as to the signification of the "myrtle" and the "fir-tree", see Chapter 41:19, the Exposition.---Isaiah Chapter 55.1. A Prince and a Lawgiver to the nations. When this is done in the presence of God, it constitutes the confession of sins. To the extent that his life is in keeping with them his sins are removed; and to the extent that his sins are removed they have been forgiven. At that time, God was seen as vengeful and angry; the breaking of any commandment was punishable by death, and God was seen as a stern parent who would never forgive his stubborn children. Here are some Bible verses to … So far as a man lives according to those precepts, so far his sins are removed, and so far as they are removed, so far they are remitted. "He who has no silver", signifies those who "are in ignorance of Truth, and yet in the Good of charity, as is the case with many in the church, and also with many Gentiles out of the church. Therefore I say to you, All [things] whatever you ask for, having prayed, believe that you shall receive, and it shall be [done] to you.25. 1. And I am certain that God, who began the good work within you, will continue his work until it is finally finished on the day when Christ Jesus returns. Used by permission.