### Core Meaning & Semantic Range
The Greek verb ἐκφύω (ekphýō, `{{G1631}}`) is a compound word derived from the preposition ἐκ (ek, "out of, from") and the verb φύω (phýō, `{{G5453}}`, "to bring forth, produce, grow, spring up, be born"). The combination yields a core meaning of "to cause to grow out," "to sprout forth," or "to put forth." Its primary semantic range is biological, referring specifically to the emergence of new growth from a plant, such as the budding of leaves or shoots. The English translation "put forth" accurately captures this sense of outward emergence and development from within. It implies a natural, organic process of growth becoming outwardly manifest.
### Biblical Occurrences & Contextual Analysis
The term ἐκφύω (ekphýō, `{{G1631}}`) appears only twice in the New Testament, both instances occurring in the Synoptic Gospels within the context of the Olivet Discourse:
* [[Matthew 24:32]]: "Now learn this parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near."
* [[Mark 13:28]]: "Now learn this parable from the fig tree: when its branch has already become tender and puts forth its leaves, you know that summer is near."
In both passages, Jesus employs the natural phenomenon of a fig tree "putting forth" its leaves as an illustrative parable. This act of new growth, signaling the approach of summer, is presented as an undeniable and easily recognizable sign. The context is eschatological, as Jesus is teaching His disciples about the signs that will precede His second coming and the end of the age. The natural, observable process of the fig tree's new foliage serves as an analogy for the clear and unmistakable signs that will indicate the imminence of the Son of Man's return. The verb emphasizes the visible manifestation of a process that was previously internal or dormant, making it a clear indicator of a coming season.
### Related Words & Concepts
Several Greek words share a semantic field related to growth and emergence:
* φύω (phýō, `{{G5453}}`): The root verb, meaning to grow, produce, or bring forth. ἐκφύω (ekphýō) is a more specific term indicating growth *outward*.
* βλαστάνω (blastanō, `{{G985}}`): To sprout, bud, or produce, often used for plants bearing fruit or leaves.
* ἀνατέλλω (anatellō, `{{G393}}`): To rise or spring up, used for the sun or plants.
* αὐξάνω (auxanō, `{{G837}}`): To grow, increase, or cause to grow, often in a more general sense of quantitative or qualitative increase.
* καρπός (karpos, `{{G2590}}`): Fruit, produce, or outcome, representing the *result* of growth.
The concept of "putting forth" also connects to broader biblical themes of discernment, the recognition of God's timing, and the understanding of spiritual signs. Just as the natural world provides clear indicators of changing seasons, so too does God provide discernible signs of His unfolding redemptive plan.
### Theological Significance
The theological significance of ἐκφύω (ekphýō, `{{G1631}}`) is profound, despite its limited occurrences, precisely because of its placement within the Olivet Discourse.
1. **Discernment of Signs:** The word highlights the principle that God provides observable "signs" in both the natural and spiritual realms. Just as the "putting forth" of leaves is an undeniable sign of summer's approach, so too will the eschatological signs be clear indicators of Christ's imminent return. This calls believers to spiritual astuteness and vigilance, not merely passive observation but active recognition and understanding of God's unfolding plan.
2. **Certainty of Prophecy:** The analogy of the fig tree emphasizes the *certainty* of the predicted events. The natural order is dependable; summer *will* follow the leaves. In the same way, the Son of Man's coming *will* certainly follow the signs He described. This instills confidence in God's prophetic word and His sovereign control over history.
3. **Call to Vigilance:** The parable serves as a powerful exhortation for believers to be watchful and prepared. The "putting forth" of leaves is a signal to those who understand the seasons. Similarly, the "putting forth" of eschatological signs should alert believers to the nearness of Christ's return, prompting them to live in readiness and anticipation.
4. **Divine Sovereignty over Creation and History:** The use of a natural phenomenon to illustrate divine timing underscores God's sovereignty over both creation and the course of human history. The processes of nature operate according to His design, just as His redemptive plan unfolds according to His perfect timing.
### Summary
The Greek verb ἐκφύω (ekphýō, `{{G1631}}`) literally means "to sprout forth" or "to put forth," describing the emergence of new growth from a plant. Though appearing only twice in the New Testament, specifically in [[Matthew 24:32]] and [[Mark 13:28]], its context is profoundly significant. In the Olivet Discourse, Jesus uses the fig tree "putting forth" its leaves as an unmistakable sign of summer's approach, drawing a direct analogy to the clear and certain signs that will precede His second coming. This word, therefore, underscores the clarity and certainty of divine prophecy, calling believers to spiritual discernment and continuous vigilance. It highlights God's provision of observable indicators for His unfolding plan, urging His followers to recognize the "signs of the times" and live in expectant readiness for the Lord's return.
TRV