Matthew 24:32

Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer [is] nigh:

Now {G1161} learn {G3129} a parable {G3850} of {G575} the fig tree {G4808}; When {G3752} his {G846} branch {G2798} is {G1096} yet {G2235} tender {G527}, and {G2532} putteth forth {G1631} leaves {G5444}, ye know {G1097} that {G3754} summer {G2330} is nigh {G1451}:

"Now let the fig tree teach you its lesson: when its branches begin to sprout and leaves appear, you know that summer is approaching.

Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its branches become tender and sprout leaves, you know that summer is near.

Now from the fig tree learn her parable: when her branch is now become tender, and putteth forth its leaves, ye know that the summer is nigh;

Matthew 24:32 introduces the well-known Parable of the Fig Tree, a crucial illustration given by Jesus within His extensive discourse on the end times, often referred to as the Olivet Discourse.

Context of the Parable

This verse is part of Jesus' response to His disciples' questions about the destruction of the Temple and the signs of His coming and the end of the age (Matthew 24:3). Having described various signs—including false Christs, wars, famines, earthquakes, and persecution—Jesus transitions from detailing specific events to providing a principle for interpreting these signs. The parable serves as a clear, relatable analogy to help His followers understand how to discern the proximity of His return.

Key Themes and Messages

  • Discernment of Signs: The primary message is the imperative for believers to be discerning. Just as natural signs (tender branches, new leaves) indicate an approaching season (summer), so too do the prophetic signs indicate the nearness of Christ's return and the culmination of the age. This calls for spiritual discernment of the times.
  • Imminence and Readiness: The parable emphasizes that when these signs begin to appear, the "summer"—representing the close proximity of the Son of Man's coming—is "nigh." It underscores the need for constant readiness and watchful anticipation among believers.
  • Natural Analogy for Spiritual Truths: Jesus frequently used everyday observations to convey profound spiritual truths. The fig tree, a common sight in Judea, provided an easily understood metaphor for recognizing patterns and drawing conclusions based on observable phenomena.

Linguistic Insights

The term "parable" (Greek: parabolē) signifies a comparison or illustration drawn from everyday life to convey a spiritual or moral lesson. Here, it’s a simple, agricultural analogy. The fig tree was a familiar part of the Palestinian landscape, and its seasonal cycle of budding was a clear indicator of the changing seasons, making the analogy immediately understandable to Jesus' audience.

Practical Application

For believers today, Matthew 24:32 serves as a timeless reminder to pay attention to global events and the fulfillment of biblical prophecy, not with fear, but with hopeful expectation and a renewed commitment to living according to God's will. It encourages a state of spiritual alertness, prompting us to live wisely, share the Gospel, and be prepared for the glorious return of Christ. Just as a farmer knows summer is near by observing the fig tree, so too should we recognize the signs of the age, inspiring us to faithful stewardship until He comes.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Mark 13:28

    Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When her branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is near:

  • Mark 13:29

    So ye in like manner, when ye shall see these things come to pass, know that it is nigh, [even] at the doors.

  • Luke 21:29

    ¶ And he spake to them a parable; Behold the fig tree, and all the trees;

  • Luke 21:30

    When they now shoot forth, ye see and know of your own selves that summer is now nigh at hand.

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