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Read Introduction to Matthew

 

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.

 

Now we come to the first of seven future kingdom parables.

24:32

Now learn this parable from the fig tree:

Jesus began to apply His teaching about the Tribulation period and the Second Coming by a parable.

A parable is something cast alongside something else. It is a short story that illustrates a principle.

When its branch has already become tender and puts forth leaves, you know that summer is near.

When twigs of fig trees begin to sprout leaves, this is a sure sign that summer is not far away. This is an analogy about the signs of the last half of the Tribulation.

24:33

So you [emphatic] also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors!

Jesus says that “all” these things (not just some) must come to pass; it is the culmination of all these signs that points to Christ’s coming (vv. 4-31).

24:34

Assuredly [solemn statement], I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place.

This generation” is not the generation of Jesus’ day but the generation about which He just spoke—the generation during the Tribulation period and the Second Coming.

24:35

Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.

God’s promises are sure. It would be easier for heaven and earth to pass away than for God’s words to fail.

PRINCIPLE:

Jesus stakes His credibility on His prediction.

APPLICATION:

God is always true to His Word. We have His solemn assurance of this. God never goes back on His Word; the Word of God stands for eternity.

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