Matthew 24:32-33 NKJV)

Matthew 24:32-33 NKJV)

“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. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near—at the doors!

The Lord has instructed His disciples about the Tribulation; now by means of a series of parables (24:32—25:30) He makes some application to life. The fig tree does not necessarily portray Israel here (Matt. 21:18–22; Luke 21:29 says, “Look at the fig tree and all the trees”). The lesson to be learned is the proximity of summer, when the branches of trees become tender and put forth leaves.

All these things must come to pass before one can say the end is near (i.e., initiation of the Great Tribulation by setting up the abomination of desolation). it is near: This is different from the imminency of Christ’s coming for the church, which does not rely on a sequence of signs for its happening.