Matthew 24:32-35 Parable of the Fig Tree

³² “Now learn this parable from the fig tree: When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near. ³³ So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors! ³⁴ Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. ³⁵ Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

Commentary

In preparing us for His return the Lord Jesus now gives a parable, drawing on a fig tree by which He could draw an easily understood analogy. And so just as when the fig tree becomes and tender and puts forth leaves and thus by this people knew that summer was near, the Lord Jesus Christ says when you see all these things (not some of these things) but all of these things take place, know that it is near at the very doors (vs. 32-33)! Now the Lord Jesus’ Word that “this generation will by no mean pass away till all these things take place” (vs. 34) must be referring to the generation that will see all these signs fulfilled in their lifetimes (and thus is not referring to the generation of the Apostles). Now to assure us of these things taking place the Lord Jesus Christ now says, “Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.” Therefore, they will all happen just as He has foretold they would in His Word. 

Scripture Quotations: 

The New King James Version. (1982). Nashville: Thomas Nelson