Matthew 24:32 – 35

Parable of the Fig Tree

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.

Jesus uses the example of the leaves of the fig tree so the disciples can understand to read the signs He has revealed to them regarding the destruction of Jerusalem. As in most trees around the world, we can look at them and determine what the season is and if we look close enough we can determine what season is approaching.

Jesus gave them the method for determining when the destruction of Jerusalem would happen by the signs he had provided to them.

Verse 33 tells them when they see the nations fighting against each other, the famines, the diseases, and the Roman army approaching then they would know the destruction of Jerusalem was imminent.

Verse 34 indicates it will not be long, He is speaking this prophecy or warning in approximately 30 A.D., and the destruction of Jerusalem would occur in 70 A.D. Much of those alive then would experience the destruction. Historically we know Jerusalem fell at that time.

Verse 35 means that even though the material objects of the universe, earth, sun, moon, and stars would be destroyed at the day of judgment, the truths He spoke would always be the truth.