Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors. (Matthew 24:32-33)
Jesus’ parable using the fig tree would be easily understood in an agricultural society. In fact, Jesus shared four parables with one central theme. Jesus wanted to keep teaching until something stuck with most of those listening. His point in all four stories was to be productive and be ready.
He explained that in the same way that you know a tree is about to produce figs when you see the buds appear, there will be signs that Jesus is returning. If we are paying attention, we will see them and be prepared.
Some signs Jesus referred to were wars, rumors of wars, nations rising against nations, ethnicities rising against ethnicities, and natural disasters. When these signs were seen, it would be evident that the coming of Jesus was very near.
As we see more nations rising up, more ethnic wars being propagated by the media, and natural disasters occurring at an alarming rate, anyone who is paying attention can see the evidence that something is happening.
However, that does not mean we know exactly when this will happen. Don’t listen to any preachers who give you a mathematical format or tell you when Christ will return. That is entirely against Scripture. We know this is the season, but we do not know the hour.
Practical Application
Jesus cautioned us about false predictions and false prophets who would try to tell us the day and the hour that Jesus would return. Make sure you listen to solid Scriptural teaching and don’t give attention to social media prophets and YouTube evangelists who try to claim things not found in scripture.
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