In this Matthew 24:32 devotional, we’ll read the parable of the fig tree and learn the meaning of the important phrase “Summer is Near”.
What is the Meaning of Matthew 24:32?
I fully intended to write a lighthearted Bible study this week about the carefree days of summer. All of the fun activities we look forward to all winter long while we’re stuck inside, swimming, hiking, boating, grilling, etc. But Jesus just wouldn’t let me do it. The longer I tried to write that devotional, the more He pulled at my heart.
When I started this blog a few years ago, I worried that I wouldn’t know what to say or that my words wouldn’t be good enough. I compared my writing to all of those other blogs out there whose writers have beautiful, flowery words that I don’t have. I spent a lot of time praying about how I should approach writing and God’s answer was very clear to me. He said, “You don’t need flowery words, you need honesty.”
His words set me free and I began writing with newfound confidence. I’ll always write the truth about God’s Word even when honesty is hard. His truth isn’t carefree, it’s straightforward and in your face. We all have times when we don’t want to hear the truth because it holds a mirror up to us that isn’t always pretty. But the truth is… God has asked me to tell you the truth about what the Bible says. So with that, in mind, I yield to His plan for this Matthew 24:32 devotional. Let’s start by reading Matthew 24:32-34 and discover the meaning of this inspiring verse.
Now learn the parable of 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! Assuredly, I say to you, this generation will by no means pass away till all these things take place. Heaven and earth will pass away, but My words will by no means pass away.
Matthew 24:32-34
The Parable of the Fig Tree
People often ask, ”Why did Jesus teach in parables”? The answer is simple, we can all relate to these parables. After two thousand years, the meaning is still the same. No matter where we come from or what stage of life we’re in, these stories are something we can all understand.
In Matthew 24:32, Jesus presents the parable of the fig tree, a bold depiction that helps us discern the signs of His second coming. As believers standing in a world teetering on the brink of hope and chaos, this parable gives us a glimpse into future events, and an invitation to develop a spirit of watchfulness and readiness. Jesus uses the image of the tender branches and budding fig tree as powerful metaphors, urging us to recognize and respond to God’s plan for Christ’s return. Just as the fig tree signals that summer is near, there’ll be signs that we’re nearing the second coming of Jesus, encouraging us to have a posture of anticipation and preparation.
The Lesson of the Fig Tree
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus Christ gives us a crucial lesson about our faith through the parable of the fig tree. This parable highlights the important truth about the signs of His second coming. Jesus uses the natural process of a fig tree budding, with its tender branches breaking into leaves, as a powerful metaphor for the spiritual vigilance we need as believers. He wants us to be as aware of the signs of the end times as we are of the approaching summer when we see the fig tree’s transformation.
This parable is part of a larger message filled with references to the days of Noah and the sudden, unexpected arrival of God’s kingdom. It serves two main purposes. First, it warns us against being deceived by false prophets and false christs who claim to know when the Son of Man will come. Second, it calls us to be ready, encouraging believers to recognize the spiritual seasons and prepare for Jesus’ return amid tribulations and the spread of the gospel of the kingdom. The lesson of the fig tree is clear: watch, recognize the budding signs, and stand firm in faith, ready for the trials of those days and the emergence of a new heaven and a new earth.
Understanding the Symbolism
Jesus used the parable of the fig tree to illustrate an important principle. Just as tender branches and budding leaves signal the approach of summer, certain events will foreshadow the coming of the Son of Man. This imagery is deeply rooted in Jewish traditions, where the fig tree often symbolizes the nation of Israel and its spiritual state. So, when we see the tender branches, it not only signals a change in seasons but also significant spiritual shifts that point us to the second coming of the Messiah. This parable is a clear reminder for believers to stay alert and recognize the signs of His second coming, amidst the constant warnings of false prophets and false christs. Understanding the biblical symbolism of the fig tree deepens our insight into God’s calendar, urging us to be watchful and ready for the kingdom of God.
Let these Bible Verses for Summer light up your day!
3 Ways to Prepare for Christ’s Return
We can be sure of one thing… Jesus Christ is coming back! And the Parable of the Fig Tree is a call to all Christians to be ready when He does. Just like we would prepare ourselves for a summer vacation by booking a flight and packing our bags, there are some things we can do to prepare for the second coming of Jesus.
#1 Recognize the Signs
Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
Luke 21:31 NIV
When we see the new leaves budding on the trees and the flowers blooming, we know that summer is just around the corner. If we’re familiar with Scripture and know what to look for, we’ll recognize the signs that the time of Christ is just around the corner too. We should be immersing ourselves in God’s Word every day. And when we do, the signs that the coming of Jesus is near should be as plain to us as the coming of summer.
We can easily predict the changing seasons because we’ve experienced it before. The frigid winter season blooms into spring, then gently rolls into the summertime heat, and moves to the fading fall colors. In the same way, we can see God’s hands moving through our lives and the world around us. The more we experience it, the easier it is to see. Then recognizing the signs of Christ’s return will become as easy to spot as the seasons.
#2 Watch
Watch therefore, for you do not know what hour your Lord is coming. But know this, that if the master of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would watched and not allowed his house to be broken into.
Matthew 24:42-43 NKJV
In the parable of the fig tree, one key instruction stands out…Watch. It isn’t just about keeping our eyes open, but about discerning the signs of Jesus’ second coming with wisdom and vigilance.
God is telling us to live with the eager expectation that Jesus could come back at any moment. And that expectation should be reflected in our lives.
If we knew that someone was getting ready to break into our house and take everything we’d worked so hard for, we wouldn’t just go to bed and pretend that the thief wasn’t coming. We would be sitting up all night waiting, ready to catch him in the act. This is the kind of eager expectation we should feel for the second coming of Jesus. We should be sitting up waiting for Him to come through the door like a thief in the night.
It’s easy to become complacent and forget that Jesus is coming soon. We get caught up in other things that seem so important at the time. But right now is the perfect time to refocus and start watching for Him to come back, because it could happen at any moment. And while we’re watching and waiting for Jesus, we should also witness to other people so they can be saved too.
Like vigilant servants waiting for their master’s return, we’re called to watch with expectant hope, ready to embrace the gospel of the kingdom and witness the majesty of Jesus Christ’s second coming.
#3 Be Ready
Therefore you also be ready, for the Son of Man is coming at an hour you do not expect.
Matthew 24:44
We don’t know when Jesus is coming back. It could be today, or it could be years from now. But it doesn’t matter when it happens, just that we’re ready for Him when He comes. This kind of readiness is more than just awareness, it’s a deep-rooted preparedness that comes from having a personal relationship with Jesus Christ, our Savior.
The following questions will help us to be ready for Him when He comes. What will He see when He gets here? Will He be pleased by how we’re living our lives? Are there things we need to change to make our lives acceptable to Him?
Even though we don’t know exactly the time or day Jesus will return, we don’t lose heart, we remain steadfast, anchoring our hope in the promise of a new heaven and a new earth. Because eternal life surrounded by the great glory of God awaits us if we embrace the gospel of the kingdom, keep our lamps burning bright, and are ready for our Bridegroom’s return.
Historical Context of Matthew 24:32
The historical context of Matthew 24:32 is rooted in a time of great anticipation and uncertainty for the Jewish people. Jesus spoke these words to His disciples on the Mount of Olives, a place with a clear view of Jerusalem and its temple. This time period was defined by Roman occupation and growing tensions, with many Jews eagerly awaiting the Messiah to deliver them. Jerusalem is more than a city, it’s a symbol of tribulation, hope, and the everlasting kingdom of God. In this setting, Jesus used the parable of the fig tree to explain the signs of His second coming and the need for spiritual vigilance, urging His followers to stay prepared for the unfolding of God’s kingdom where eternal life reigns in a new heaven and new earth. And in this place the disciples asked this pointed question…
Now as He sat on the Mount of Olives, the disciples came to Him privately, saying, “Tell us, when will these things be? And what will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?”
Matthew 24:3 NKJV
The Days of Noah
Just like in the days of Noah, when people were eating, drinking, and just living life, unaware of the coming flood, our current era is similar. We’re caught up in our daily routines, often oblivious to the signs of the end of the world. But Matthew 24:32 teaches us an important lesson about Jesus’ return, it will be as unexpected as the flood in Noah’s time, catching many people off guard. The suddenness of this event highlights the critical importance of being vigilant, recognizing the signs of His second coming, and preparing our hearts for what’s to come. Jesus stressed the importance of readiness, urging us to live in anticipation and readiness for His return, much like Noah prepared the ark, a symbol of salvation and hope in the middle of destruction. These parallels remind us to stay spiritually awake, not to be lulled by routine, and to keep our lamps burning, eagerly awaiting our Savior.
The Role of False Prophets and Christ’s Second Coming
Our journey of faith is full of twists and turns. And there’s a clear warning in Matthew 24 about a pothole in the road that all Christians will face, the rise of false prophets and false christs.
And many false prophets will arise and lead many astray.
Matthew 24:11 ESV
For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect.
Matthew 24:24 NKJV
These deceivers use persuasive words to mimic the truth and lead us astray. Jesus Christ warned that their emergence signals the end of the current age and the dawn of His second coming. It’s crucial for us to use our knowledge of God’s Word to sift through the lies and find the truth. Just like in the days of Noah, our time is full of distractions and falsehoods that can easily hide the signs of the coming of the Son of Man. We must not become complacent, but instead keep our eyes on Jesus, allowing His words to guide us through the tough times that will lead to the destruction of Jerusalem in the end times and giving us hope for what’s to come.
Jesus’ words about the deception of false christs, reminds us to be discerning and ready for their appearance. It’s more than just a warning, it’s an invitation to eternal life, that encourages us to look forward to a hopeful future despite the challenges we face today.
Be inspired by these Powerful Bible Verses about the Rapture!
The Destruction of Jerusalem and the End of the World
Therefore when you see the ‘abomination of desolation,’ spoken of by Daniel the prophet, standing in the holy place” (whoever reads, let him understand), “then let those who are in Judea flee to the mountains.
Matthew 24:15:16 NKJV
The destruction of Jerusalem will be a precursor, a shadow of the greater tribulations to come. In this passage Jesus warns us that when we see the destruction of the temple, we should flee to the mountains. Basically, He’s giving us a heads-up about this future event that will be a big sign of trouble, urging us to take immediate action for our safety. It’s a reminder of the importance of being aware of the signs and understanding the times. And to stay vigilant and prepared, trusting in God’s guidance through all circumstances.
Application to Modern Believers
In our busy lives, Matthew 24:32 invites us to pause and reflect on the wisdom Jesus’ teachings offer, encouraging us to be spiritually vigilant and morally upright. The parable of the fig tree reminds us that the tender branches and budding fig tree are not just signs of changing seasons, but divine signals to recognize the signs of His second coming, with the kingdom of God and the promise of a new heaven and new earth on the horizon. Just like the days of Noah showed the suddenness of change, we must stay alert, guarding against false prophets and false christs who try to mislead us.
As a wise servant of Christ, our call to action is clear:
- Recognize the Signs of the End Times in the world around us, not with fear, but with the assurance of Jesus’ eternal promise.
- Watch diligently, knowing that when Summer is near, God’s timeline is also near.
- Be Ready for Christ’s return by living a life that reflects the gospel of the kingdom, ensuring our lamps are filled and our spirits are willing. Because when we anchor ourselves to the truth of God’s Word, we’re prepared to face any trial with grace and strength, and experience the hope of eternal life.
Discover how to Stand Firm in the Faith in this short Bible Study!
Misinterpretations and Clarifications
While we’re exploring Matthew 24:32, it’s important to clear up any confusion and focus on the truth. In this scripture, Jesus Christ uses the budding fig tree as a metaphor for the awareness and readiness needed for His second coming, an event full of anticipation and excitement. The parable emphasizes the importance of recognizing the signs of His second coming, but it’s often misinterpreted.
Since His resurrection, people have wrongly tried to predict the exact dates of the Second Coming of Christ, and many have fallen for the claims of false prophets and false christs, thinking natural events or political changes are clear signals. However, Jesus clearly says that not even the angels of heaven know the hour of His return, cautioning against trying to predict the unpredictable. The main message here isn’t about fear or speculation but about being spiritually awake. The lessons of the past, like the days of Noah and the destruction of Jerusalem, remind us how quickly significant events can happen in God’s timing.
But about that day or hour no one knows, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.
Matthew 24:36 NIV
The tender branches and the budding fig tree in this parable aren’t just for idle contemplation, they’re a call to active spiritual preparation. They urge us to discern the signs of the times with wisdom and faith. Understanding that summer is near means being ready for the coming of the Son of Man, building a strong relationship with Jesus Christ, and engaging in the ever-unfolding plan of God. We can be confident in the promise of eternal life and stay steadfast in faith through the tribulations of these days.
The Eternal Word of God
In a world that often feels like it’s constantly changing, there’s deep comfort and certainty in the words of Jesus Christ. As we dive into the teachings of Matthew 24:32, we’re reminded of the timeless nature of God’s Word. Generations come and go, empires rise and fall, and days turn into nights, but one thing remains constant… the eternal Word of God. It’s a lighthouse in life’s storms, reassuring us of the unchanging truth of scripture in an ever-changing world. Whether we’re facing personal trials, societal upheavals, or life’s many uncertainties, the nearness of Jesus and His comforting words give us a solid foundation to stand on, while offering hope, guidance, and the promise of eternal life in heaven with Him. As we look forward to the new heavens and a new earth, the teachings of Jesus in Matthew 24:32 remind us that, while heaven and earth may pass away, the Word of our God will never fade.
Connecting with the Gospel of the Kingdom of God
When we think about the lessons in the parable of the fig tree and the approaching summer, it’s clear that Jesus Christ was not only pointing to the signs of His second coming but also connecting these signs to the bigger story of the Gospel. As followers watching for the tender branches that show His return is near, we’re invited to look beyond the tribulation of those days and anchor our souls in the promise of the kingdom of God. This isn’t just about expecting the second coming of Christ; it’s about living in the reality of a new heaven and a new earth, where eternal life with Him prevails. Recognizing the signs of His second coming, much like the Jewish people observed the green figs budding, calls us to prepare our hearts for His kingdom and embrace the gospel of the kingdom with passion. In this way, the destruction of Jerusalem, the great tribulation, and even the rise of false prophets and false christs are part of a bigger vision of redemption and eternal joy in the presence of our King.
Significance for Today’s World
The parable of the fig tree is as significant today as it was the day Noah built the ark by allowing us to reflect of the urgencies of our time. Just as the fig tree’s tender branches let us know summer is near, global events happening right now hint at Jesus coming back. Today, we find ourselves living in similar circumstances to the days of Noah, where the unexpected becomes a reality in a newsflash. This passage urges us to spot the signs of His second coming, and recognize false prophets living among us and the potential for spiritual deception. It’s a call for vigilance and preparation, encouraging us to anchor our lives in the hope of the Gospel and the eternal life promised to us. As we observe the events of our world, let’s embrace a faith that’s both reflective and proactive, confident that our foundation in Jesus Christ equips us to navigate these challenging times with grace and truth.
Embracing the Future with Hope
Thinking about the End Times is a little scary. But reading the parable of the fig tree, it becomes clear that our challenge as followers of Jesus is to embrace the future with unwavering hope. Understanding the symbolic budding of the fig tree and recognizing the signs of His second coming aren’t just theological exercises for us to comtemplate among other beleiver, they call us to live faithfully in the present.
The fig tree’s tender branches, full of new life, remind us that the kingdom of God is near, urging us to prepare our hearts by being watchful and ready for Jesus Christ’s return. Despite the presence of false prophets and the tribulations of those days in the future, our focus today remains on furthering God’s Kingdom and keeping our lamps burning bright.
Even in these challenging times, we can clearly see the signs of His coming, and face the uncertainties of this world with unwavering faith and enduring joy. We can face the future confident in the Victory of Jesus and the glory of God’s plan.
In this Matthew 24:32 devotional, God hit us with a hard truth. Are we ready to see Jesus coming? Do we need to change anything in our lives to prepare for the time of His return?
Whether you’re enjoying the lazy days of summer, or experiencing a heatwave, I hope you’ll pay attention to Jesus’ warning that Summer is Near and prepare for it now. I know I need to be better prepared… to understand the Bible fully, to be ready to answer any question about my faith, and to be watchful of His return. So, I pray you’ll join me and take the proper time to prepare for Jesus to come the second time and that God will bless you greatly for it!
Summer Bible Verse Art Print from Master’s Hand Collection
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Hello Connie,
I hope you are well. I really do enjoy reading your messages they are inspirational. I feel very privileged to receive them. The messages and how you feel I can resonate with. If I may ask how did you get my email?
Look forward to hearing from you.
God bless you 🙂✨💒
Hi Rachel! Thanks for your encouraging words. 🙂 You must have signed up for my emails along with the free devotional 7 Simple Ways to See God’s Hand in Your Life. I’m glad you’re enjoying them and I hope you have a very blessed day!
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