Repent or Perish: A Solemn Warning from Luke 13

In Luke 13, Jesus addresses two tragedies: Galileans slain by Pilate and eighteen crushed by the tower of Siloam. Rather than speculating on why these people died, Jesus drives the lesson home for all:

“I tell you, Nay: but, except ye repent, ye shall all likewise perish.” (Luke 13:5)

To reinforce the urgency, He tells the parable of a barren fig tree—year after year fruitless, awaiting judgment, yet spared one final year under the care of the vinedresser.

This passage is both searching and merciful. Searching, because it reminds us that without repentance, we face certain judgment. Merciful, because it shows us the patience of God, extending time to turn to Him.

The call is clear: repent, believe the gospel, and bear fruit to God’s glory.