Summary
The Bible liken’s the nation Israel to a fig tree. A fig tree produces both good and bad (inedible) fruit. So it was with the nation of Israel. Jews who were whole-hearted followers of God were likened to ‘good figs’, and rebellious Jews were likened to ‘bad figs’. The Bible also says that at the end of this age Israel will ‘blossom and bud’ and ‘put forth new leaves’ like a fig tree, and that this will be a sign of the imminent return of Israel’s true Messiah – Yeshua (Jesus Christ). Put simply, the Bible says that end-time events in the world will be closely linked to modern Israel.
Go directly to an interactive timeline for Israel-related events HERE
Signs of the End of the Age and of Christ’s Return
When Jesus’ disciples asked Him, “What will be the sign of Your coming, and of the end of the age?” (Mathew 24.3), He identified four types of end-time sign (see also Mark 13 and Luke 21):
- Signs in the world – wars, earthquakes, famines, lawlessness, wild weather …
- Signs in the church – worldwide gospel preaching, persecution, apostasy, false prophets …
- Signs in Israel – invasion, severe persecution of Jews …
- Signs in the heavens – fearful solar and cosmic disturbances, asteroids …
Jesus said that when we see these signs then “know that the kingdom of God is near” (Luke 21.31). He said these signs point to His imminent return and the establishment of His kingdom on earth. So Jesus stressed that it was important to watch for these signs:
Watch therefore, for you know neither the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man is coming (Mat 25.13)
After describing the above signs, Jesus gave a mysterious parable. He associated the observation of these signs with the Parable of the Fig Tree. Why? It turns out that understanding this parable is the key to unlocking the mystery of what is now happening in the world. The parable leads to a very important sign, and one promised by the prophet Isaiah:
He will set up a sign for the nations (Isa 11.12)
What is it?
An Important Sign: The Parable of Israel the Fig Tree
After describing some end-time signs to watch for, Jesus ends with the parable of the fig tree. He told His disciples:
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. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near – at the doors!
(Mat 24.32,33)
Why did Jesus associate a fig tree with the end time signs? Some argue that Jesus was just using a simple horticultural observation. Quite simply – the fig tree is one of the last trees to bud in the spring and so when it’s leaves are budding we know that summer is just around the corner! So, they argue, Jesus was simply saying; “when the fig tree buds you know that summer is near – likewise, when you see all these things happening, know that the end is near”. They deny that there is any positive association of Israel with a budding fig tree, link. On the other hand, Jesus used the concept of a parable, implying that underneath He was teaching a deep truth. Was He referring to Israel in the last days? Should we view the Parable of the Fig Tree as The Parable of Israel the Fig Tree?
Consider A Little Horticulture
The common or edible fig (Ficus carica L.) is native to the Mediterranean/Israel region, where it can produce three crops per year, link, link. Breba figs develop in the Spring (May) on the previous year’s shoot growth. They are generally inferior to the main crop and are often discarded to encourage growth of the main crop, link. Two main crops follow in July-November, with pollinated (caprified) figs in August-September. Pollination (caprification) of the common fig can markedly increase fig size, link and is done by fig wasps transporting pollen from Capri fig flowers. In contrast to most fruit trees, the Autumn figs (the main crop) develop on the new wood that grows in Spring.
Ficus carica was cultivated for its fruit thousands of years ago and figs are often referred to in the Old Testament. It is interesting to note that the Bible also refers to three crops of figs:
- ‘early, first ripe, first fruit before the summer, very good figs’ (Isa 28.4; Jer 24.2,3; Hos 9.10) – a relatively small crop with the best flavour, June-July
- ‘sweetness and good fruit, the season for figs’ (Judg 9.11, Mk 11.13) – main crop, August-September. Made into cakes for winter use (1 Sam 25.18)
- ‘green, bad, inedible figs’ (Song 2.13; Jer 24.2,3; Jer 29.17) – green or winter figs, small, unripened, unsweetened, inedible fruit, link, link
Spiritual Implication: the End-Time Budding of Israel
Fig horticulture identifies good sweet figs, the first of the summer figs, and poor, unripe and often inedible figs. The significant point here is that the Bible associates these qualities with the people of Israel. For instance, the ‘fathers of Israel’ or Patriarchs are seen as the best figs – the first-fruits of the summer crop:
I found Israel .. your fathers as the first fruits on the fig tree (Hos 9.10)
God sees this minority of Israel as the first and best of the nation. These figs contrast with the green, inedible figs. Both types of fig symbolize the people of Judah before their deportation to Babylon; they are seen as good and bad figs:
The LORD said to me ‘What do you see, Jeremiah?’ And I said, ‘Figs, the good figs, very good, and the bad, very bad (Jer 24.3)
Large ripe figs
Jeremiah 24.5-8 shows that God is referring to those Jews who are whole-hearted followers of God (the good figs), and to those rebellious Jews who had rejected God (the bad figs). Likewise, in the time of Christ, most Jews rejected Him and remained dead in their works and legalism. They were like green, unripened, unsweetened figs. Today, most Jews can be seen as green figs, whilst a few (the messianic Jews) are like sweetened ripe figs.
The consequences of rebellion against God is well illustrated in the incidence of the ‘Withered fig tree’ (Mat 21.18,19). Jesus found no fruit (apparently, not even the unripe breba crop), and so He cursed it and it died. This was prophetic, looking to the destiny of the Jews when they were to be scattered by the Romans in 70 AD. Like the cursed fig tree, the nation of Israel seemingly died. In contrast, Jesus gave an extremely important prophecy that applies to our time. To repeat:
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. So you also, when you see all these things, know that it is near – at the doors! (Mat 24.32,33)
Look at the fig tree, and all the trees. When they are already budding you see and know for yourselves that summer is now near. So you also, when you see these things happening, know that the kingdom is near (Lk 21.29-31)
Note that Jesus refers to the tender branch, implying new wood and the coming good summer fruit on the new wood. Since the fruit of the fig tree is established in the Old Testament as symbolizing the spiritual state of the people of Israel, many see this coming ‘summer crop’ as the restoration of the people of Israel (generically referred to as ‘Jews’) to their own land. The fruitless dead wood of scattered Israel is replaced by fruit on new wood. It is likened to a people drawn back into their own land and a nation that becomes a sign to the Gentiles. A remnant of this people become ‘the good, sweet crop’. This process has been underway now for over 100 years, link.
So when we refer to ‘Israel the fig tree’ we see both Old Testament Israel, and modern re-gathered or ‘budding’ Israel. The ‘good crop’ could include the 144,000 Messianic Jews drawn from the twelve tribes of Israel who will evangelize the gentile nations at the very end of this age (Rev 7.4-8). The result is the salvation of a countless number of Gentiles during the Great Tribulation:
I looked and saw a great multitude … of all the nations … clothed with white robes … these are the one’s who come out of the great tribulation (Rev 7.9,14).
The Message behind the Parable:
Regathered Israel is a Sign to the Nations
It seems that when Jesus spoke of the appearance of new shoots on the fig tree as signalling that summer is near, He was actually alluding to the restoration of Israel and His imminent return. He was saying that when we see Israel regathered in her own land and ‘budding like a fig tree’ then His return is near – even ‘at the doors’. This will be the time of the coming of the fullness of the Kingdom of God on earth.
Israel and the Timeline for the Last Days
In Luke 21 Jesus said ‘look at the fig tree (Israel) and ‘all the trees’ (the Gentile nations) and so observe the signs of the times. He implied that Israel will be the vortex of the nations. So let’s now apply the parable of Israel the fig tree to the observed world scenario and ask the question, ‘When did the fig tree (Israel) start to bud?’ ‘When did Israel emerge onto the world scene?’ When we trace a timeline of world events from this time we find that many issues of today are closely linked to Israel! We see that Israel is increasingly the vortex of the world.
The timeline below is best viewed on desktops, laptops and tablets.
If you’re viewing this on a mobile phone, click HERE for a PDF version
God’s calendar is the only accurate calendar. Bible study and watching Israel are valid pastimes to understanding where we are on God’s calendar. We have all we need to know the end times in which we live.
Wow that was unusual. I just wrote an extremely long comment but after I clicked submit my comment didn’t show up.
Grrrr… well I’m not writing all that over again. Anyway, just wanted to say wonderful blog!
1 Thes 4:13-17 is the second coming with the only resurrection for the saints which is on the last day, last trumpet (John 6:39-54, 11:24, Rev 20:4-6, 1 Cor 15:52).
Luke 17:22-37 is the pre-trib rapture without a resurrection. There is a flash of light and dead bodies when life seems normal (eating, drinking, etc.)
We leave our flesh on earth (Luke 17:37). We get a heavenly body in heaven (1 Cor 15:40). Maranatha!
Our flesh is changed, in the twinkling of an eye, mortal body puts on immortality, corruptible body puts on incorruptible. Our bodies are not left behind— the mystery of “where we went” would not be the cry of the left behind instead it would be “what killed them” there would be millions of funerals….the mystery and the wonder of who took my baby? who took my mother? would be nullified instead they would fear disease and again be busy burying. Our old bodies put on new immortality, only our clothes likely left behind for impact sake….God is able to deal with clothing, as well, but the visual of bodies gone and only clothes will be an event never known on earth before.
the dead will rise first?…
We need the truth of the WORD of God.
The churches must wake up! Messiah is knocking at the door! Many churches don’t study biblical prophecy and do you realize that prophecies of the Bible make up 27% of the ancient book. That means you only know 73% of the Bible if you don’t read and study its numerous prophecies. Tell your pastor, family, friends and even strangers about it. God has remembered His people, the Jewish people and has blessed them in so many ways over the years. Take a tour of the Holy Land of Israel and you will be amazed! I’ve been there many times and it’s changed my life forever. Experience the Bible and walk in the footsteps of Jesus. Blessings
The true meaning of the parable is this.First a Parable is a parallel story . This parable is a parallel story with history With Israel being the fig tree but not without Jerusalem. Israel obtained or better took possession of Jerusalem on Jan 23rd 1950. This is the start in history of the fig tree. Then in 1967 June 5-10 the 6 day war happened this is the parallel part of the story when the branch was yet tender and putteth forth leaves. Israel took on much more territory in the 6 day war and a tree leafing in the spring looks to occupy more territory. Then Christ says know summer is neigh. The summer is the summer of the generation that started in 1950, because it’s spring would be 17 1/2 years long and it’s summer would be neigh at the time of the six day war. Showing us the generation Christ speaks of in Mathew 24:34 started in 1950.then there are 16 lunar eclipses that identify the seasons of the generation that starts in 1950. Check out NASA’s list of tetrades to confirm. I’ve done all that study.
Israel became a nation again in May 1948,and its been 75 years since that time.A generation can be 70-80 years.Check out the history of Israel as stated by the United Nations charter in 1948 and not 1950.
Focus more importantly on your faith in Y’shua and have your lamp full of oil before His Glorious return.
Loook at the signs that told us to look for and look up for your redeemption draws near.
Please can I have your notes on this study? I’d like to look at it carefully to understand what you learned. Here’s my email address; silvanusokon@hotmail.com
I find it interesting and telling that you censor and delete comments you disagree with, but keep those you do agree with, even when one brother is condemning another and telling them they are void of the Holy Spirit.
Hello all. I am so glad that I found this site. I googled “fig tree Israel “ and that led me here. Many questions answered for me here. Thanks! I assume that this is from a Jewish perspective and I agree with it all. However, from a Christian perspective, this article omits the reference in Matt 24:31 that “he will send his angels to gather up his elect from the four winds, from one end of heaven to the other”. Rapture?? God made a promise (to the Jewish people) that he will not fail to keep. We (non Jews) have been blessed while Israel is made ready for its destiny. Shalom.
Yes. We believe those in Christ’s TRUE church will be raptured to meet Yeshua in the air a few years before He comes back to earth. See https://seekingtruth.co.uk/what-is-the-rapture-in-the-bible/
Context is key. Mt 24 is the Olivet Discourse, addressed to Israel, not the His church.
The word Rapture isn’t in the verse Matt 24:31
And I don’t find it in the Bible
True. But key texts say the same thing – a friendly ‘snatching away’ of believers. See https://seekingtruth.co.uk/rapture/
The rapture theory was started by Margaret McDONALD back in the 1800’s by a dream she had when she was sick in bed. Evidence of this is in the newspaper article in Ireland about her sharing her dream with two pastors by her bedside as she recounted her dream to them. When two are in the field working and one is taken, it is because one was not following God but was walking in the way of the world. Hence, Woe to those who give suck in those days. They are like a child sucking on the mother’s milk. They are nursing on Satan’s lies and the world’s deception. The one left in the field is the one who knows God’s truth (he comes at the 7th trump. Satan comes at the sixth trump. 6 comes before seven when you count from 0 to 9. No one will leave here until he returns at the 7th trump. The lies of the rapture theory from Margaret McDONALD was spread throughout the churches of from the two famous pastors of that day. Do not be the one nursing on her lies. Keep working in the field until his return.
A comprehensive analysis of the rapture can be found at https://seekingtruth.co.uk/rapture/. Jesus refers to this in Mat 24. John Wesley also believed in it – see https://www.bibletools.org/index.cfm/fuseaction/Bible.show/sVerseID/23998/eVerseID/23998/RTD/jwn
I believe in the scriptures about the 6 seals, 6 vials & 6Trumps. The Anti-Christ will appear on the 6Th Trump. THE ANTI-CHRIST WILL HAVE GREAT POWERS & PERFORM ASTOUNDING MIRACLES & DECEIVE EVEN GOD’S “ELECT”. BE CAREFUL & DON’T LISTEN & FALL FOR HIS GREAT WONDER’S & SIGNS.——— BUT, OUR LORD AND SAVIOUR JESUS CHRIST WILL ARRIVE ON THE 7TH TRUMP.
this is what the Lord meant by doctrines of man beware… you’re just following what other men have told you Jesus himself spoke of the rapture as well as many others in the Bible go back, read again. USE god-given discernment perhaps you do not have ears to hear?
The word Bible is not in the Bible, but the word scripture is, same concept.
Several were raptured in scripture, Enoch, Elijah, Jesus, and Paul was ‘caught up’, same word.
In the Hebrew manuscripts the word for “quickly snatching away” is Harpatzo. In the Latin manuscripts the word is “RAPTURO”. these manuscripts have been meticulously scribed, “copied”.
When copied into English using the word rapture would have been more precise but they chose “CAUGHT UP”. and in some translations “SNATCHED AWAY”.
The original manuscripts are not in English as I’m sure you must know that so words must be translated and sometimes those translations reflect words common at the time of translation. All said to say that “RAPTURE” is the best word for the meaning since its a single word. Otherwise when we refer to the RAPTURE we would be continually saying the “CAUGHT UP” other “SNATCH AWAY”. Some people actually say the “HAPAZO” which is fine but traditionally English words stem from Latin so in this case Latin in the original manuscripts uses RAPTURE.
You are correct!!!
The great escape … Even some Jews who believe in Christ and his salvation will be saved from the coming distruction.. not all Jews will go thru the Tribulation
Thank you for the comments.Quite enriching. My prayer ” Come Lord Jesus. ”
Psalm 90:10 shows us a generation. I believe that 80 years is the generational time referred to when Jesus said his return would be in the generation after Israel [the fig tree] is reformed which was in 1948. Add 80 years brings us to 2028 – Remember, Jesus is talking to the Jewish people. They still have the 7 year tribulation before Jesus returns to the Jewish nation. Subtract 7 years from 2028 and, low and behold, it’s 2021. Jesus said know one knows the day or the hour. He didn’t say no one knows the year. Of course, we’re to be looking for Jesus every day, right? If the fig tree is a spring, summer fruit, then the harvest will be in the fall. Pay attention to Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. [Ed. ‘generation’ can also mean (Jewish) ‘race’]
I believe that the Rapture of the Church is next great event to take place, anytime soon. Lord come quickly.
Definitely… World events are ramping up.. even Hollywood knows that.. that’s why their busy preparing the way for their own saviour the antichrist to come..
HollyWormwood has been ramping up for the savior the Devil. They promote sex, violence, adultry, gay and transgender agenda and every sin imaginable. It’s as tho they want to populate hell with as many souls as they can for their father the Devil, the god of this world. That is why you see all the serpent statues all over the world and the pyramids the fallen ones built, NOT MAN.
“They promote sex, violence, adultry, gay and transgender agenda and every sin imaginable. ” Since when is sex actually a sin?
I want to get all information that are taking place in the current time to help me match same with the end time prophecies to be ready for Christ return
My thoughts exactly. It is really following a logical conclusion
I think it is quite speculative to even name the year.
There are many things need to happen before the Rapture and Second Coming of Christ.
The key thing that needs to take place is the building of the “Tribulation” Temple in order for the Anti-christ to rise and desecrate the Temple. The building of the “Tribulation” temple has yet to take place and may take some time to achieve.
That is AFTER the Rapture.
The 3rd Temple won’t be built until after the Antichrist enters the scene because he is the one who will make the seven year treaty with Israel that allows them to rebuild the temple. The Church must be removed first before the Antichrist will be revealed. (See 2 Thessalonians 2:1-8).
This treaty will probably happen after the Ezekiel 38 war. (See Ezekiel 38 & 39)
Nothing needs to happen before the rapture of all followers of Christ. Understand that all his followers make up His Church. The temple, the Antichrist, the abomination of desolation- none of that happens until after the church is removed and the Holy Spirit steps aside. Sometime after the church has been raptured/gathered up to the Lord, the first 3 1/2 years of the tribulation begins. The second 3 1/2 years will be the real horror. The Tribulation is the time of Jacobs trouble – the gathering of those Jews who believe in Messiah Yeshua. The fig tree was used as the example of when israel returned to their land, it and they would bloom. They did and they have. A generation in OT times was 80-100 years. Many scholars believe we are that generation and the way things are in the world now, I can agree with them.
Israel became a nation on 14 May 1948, so, strictly speaking, the 80 years will only be over after 14 May 2022′.
So I expect Jesus to return (at the end of the 7 year tribulation) before that date.
Hi Pierre,
The age of a person 80 years as per Psalm 90:10.
The duration of a generation however is 100 years, see Genesis 15:13 and 16 (Israel in Egypt 400 years and leaving after 4th generation, 400/4=100)
Still a little while longer, but indeed the rapture could be any moment.
See also Genesis chapter 6, after the sons of gods saw that human women were beautiful and married them to raise a generation of giant people. Following this, God said, “The maximum you will live will be 120 years. From the rebirth of Israel in 1948, taking this maximum time span, will lead us to 2068, when Jesus will return. Deduct the 7 years Tribulation, then the rapture will happen before 2061, less than 40 years away. Be ready.
We are in 2022 and tribulation did not start. You were almost right. You are in error by assuming the rapture is post tribulation. Israel is 74 years old this year. Jesus will rapture within 6 years. Nobody knows the exact time, but it will not pass 6 years. After the rapture it will start the tribulation.
This page does not really mention the rapture. But we believe in the Pre-Tribulation rapture. Please see https://seekingtruth.co.uk/rapture/
Hi Vida, see comment to Pierre.
A person’s age could be 80 but a generation is 100 years as per Gen 15:13 and 16.
Hi Brandon,
The age of a person 80 years as per Psalm 90:10 but the duration of a generation is 100 years, see Genesis 15:13 and 16 (Israel in Egypt 400 years and leaving after 4th generation, 400/4=100)
Thanks for the blog. I hope more people read it as we’re so close to the LORD’s return. I believe Isaiah 26: 19-21 covers our recent plague and its almost past. I also believe the promised book of truth is open, mostly in Daniel 11 in which verses lead us to the abomination of desolation that both the LORD and Daniel said to watch for.
You are exactly right! The Jew and Israel are the living “signs” of the times to Gentiles and even the Church. God bless you all!
The Bible never likens Israel to a fig tree. Where symbolism is involved Israel is symbolized by an olive tree. Many well-meaning people have mischaracterized, misused and in some instances have abused Jesus’ teaching. Here is no exception. Jesus wasn’t using the fig tree as a symbol of Israel but as an example of nature. He expounded on this teaching in Luke 21:29-32. Accordingly, there are two problems with the view being espoused here. There are at least two problems with this understanding of the parable. First, in the expanded version, recorded in Luke 21:29–32, Jesus talked about the fig tree “and all the trees” and the time when “they” shoot forth leaves. If Christ were using the fig tree to represent Israel, what do all the other trees represent? Also, if the time of the fig tree putting forth its leaves referred to Israel’s restoration as a nation in 1948, to what did the shooting forth of leaves by all the other trees refer?
[Taking just these NT references, then your comments seem quite logical. But please note that this article also looks at how the fig tree is clearly related to the nation of Israel in the Old Testament. Ed.]
Actually that is not true. God indeed describes Israel with 3 different trees:
1-the Vine. 2- the Fig.
3-the Olive.
Each represents the 3 different aspects of Israel.
1-the Vine represents the spiritual condition of Israel.
2-the Fig represents the nation of Israel.
3-the Olive represents the religious privileges of Israel.
I agree with you brother david. Shalom!
Maybe Jesus was saying about the fig tree..that all the other trees have blossomed and are giving good fruit and in the end times Israel will be the last to get there..when they finally do we will one more sign at the doors.
The bible exposition here is good
Dwight — your Carnal Comment proves you are VOID of the Holy Spirit…or you would SURELY Understand the Parable…
Fact: Fig trees grow in Israel — CONNECT the dots….you Strain out a gnat to swollow a camel…
To conceal truth: Jesus explained, “Therefore I speak to them in parables, because seeing they do not see, and hearing they do not hear, nor do they understand. And in them the prophecy of Isaiah is fulfilled, which says: ‘Hearing you will hear and shall not understand, and seeing you will see and not perceive’” Matt 13:13
When the Yom Teruah Trumpet Sounds & you’re Left standing there in your Superfical Theology…you’ll GET the Parable..!!!
Well said Mark
Yes, that was a very well said condemnation, judgment and criticism of another brother. Also arrogant, prideful, and self-righteous.
I couldn’t agree more Toddot. To hear two Christian’s being so disrespectful to each other is awful and prideful. Shame on you
Truth! He seems to be angry and condemning someone with harsh words and thoughts. It’s a shame people can’t have a discussion without being harsh.
Take a chill pill, Mark! If we are discussing issues of eschatology at this level, then we are have all accepted Grace. You shouldn’t YELL at your brothers seeking truth, nor put them down for their views at this point in the discussion. I’m not weighing in on End Time issues…. only on your crass mean-spirited retorts to your brothers in Christ. Chill!
Tell JESUS to take a “chill” pill when He comes to rule all the nations with a rod of iron. That’s a very good idea. I’d like to know what Jesus and His rod of iron think of your “chill pill.”
I question your regeneration because of how you have replied to someone. I think there’s more biblical warrant to question a person’s salvation based on their lack of fruit than there is on their understanding of Eschatology.
Dwight ,
Sometimes to better understand it pays to step back a step, and look at the bigger picture. When the the Ottoman Empire fell, The Allies carved up the land into what is sometimes artificial boundaries, that have in effect created a great deal of the conflict we see in the middle east today. If you look at the histories of most of the current middle east you will see older names, but national boundaries that were established give or take , that are about the same age as Israel’s mandate, hence the words of Jesus mentioning the Fig(Israel) and the “other trees” in the same season. remember God uses terms interchangeability, the define a particular characteristic or trait he want to illustrate. Example the many names he uses to describe , Israel , the Holy Spirit, the names of Jesus in the old testament and even the names to describe Himself. As other commenters have said , Israelis illustrated by a number of different names as are a number of other countries and peoples.
Hope this helps
Jesus used the parable of the figtree after He told them of all the weather events. Aren’t we seeing unprecedented weather events? And isn’t Israel about to face her biggest war since 1967?
I believe that the Rapture is imminent.
The generation alive to see THE FIG TREE ISRAEL emerge from being scattered all over the world and once again become a nation on the world map WILL NOT PASS AWAY BEFORE THE SON OF MAN RETURNS. (Matthew 24). THAT GENERATION IS THE 1948 generation as Israel the Fig Tree on May 14, 1948 blossomed when the first prime Minister of the Jewish state, David Ben Gurion, announced to the world saying THE FIG TREE IS ALIVE AGAIN AFTER TWO THOUSAND YEARS. That generation is 74 years old…the average life span today is 76-84 years. Only a few years remain before the 1948 Generation passes. Get the word out…The King is returning SOON !!!!! Only few years before the 1948 Generation is gone…WE ARE THE LAST GENERATION !
Another understanding of “generation” is “race” – the Jewish race/nation. This avoids trying to set dates for the return of Christ.
I can add an amen to your comment. I was born in 1946 to a family of believers and was therefore taught my whole life to be aware and watching. As the recent events have come together in what we see happening all around us in the world it is very clear to me that the Word is indeed fullfilling itself.
Those of us who were alive to witness 1948 believe we are living in the last generation that began when Israel declared statehood. Obviously not all of us will live til the rapture as the lord will take us at our time. If a generation is 80-100 years then 2028-2048 may be a good time? Given that we’re not to know time or date, I just keep on plugging away for Jesus because I don’t want anyone left behind to face what’s coming. Besides I know where I’m going – like Billy graham said,”I’m just passing through on my way home.” We’re all sojourners on this small rock in space so be kind to the next unbeliever who has no idea why you’re happy. Tell him your story with Jesus – you may help.
That generation is as the days of Noah. Noahs days were 120.
REPLY to Dwight Osborne: Apparently you didn’t read the article very closely, or the biblical examples given. Israel is definitely represented more than once by the fig tree…and he explained that “the other trees” of Luke 21 are the Gentile nations. You may still disagree with his arguments, but you must do so by making it more clear that you thoroughly listened (read) his side of the arguments.
[In reply to Dwight Osborne] look at the flags surrounding Israel and you will understand the prophecy “all the trees” Lebanon the Cedar…Saudi Arabia….The palm…thus all the trees…They all bear trees on their flags… So Im sorry to inform you sir. .That you are wrong and it only takes a 5 minute search for you to verify that you are very very wrong. Look up Fig Tree prophecy by Rock Island Books on you tube…he does a very compelling video to characterize the prophecy in its right portrayal . Adam
You are correct. Nicely done.
The other trees refer to the gentiles.
The Fig tree may not be Israel But Hosea 9:10 says I found Israel like grapes in the wilderness; I saw your fathers as the firstripe in the fig tree at her first time: [but] they went to Baalpeor, and separated themselves unto [that] shame; and [their] abominations were according as they loved. ——–Thus The Nation was LIKE grapes but the people were the fruit of a Fig Tree.
The fig tree represents Israel and all the other trees represent the Gentils…
The other trees would represent Gentile nations, Luke was primarily a gospel written for the Gentiles, also compare Ezek 17:22-24 in reference to the Olivet prophecy interesting seeing the seasons of the fig tree as a timeline of the nation
I think you missed the point. Jesus said, Behold the fig tree and all the trees. When there leaves sprout you know summer is near. If the sprouting of the fig tree represent the birth of Israel, then the sprouting of all the other trees must represent the birth of other nations. What other nations were birthed at the same time Israel was birthed?
Read Roma 11:25 ! The best for you if you read the whole chapter !
Hi Todd,
Israel’s independance was followed by hundreds of other countries (other trees) becoming independant.
https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_sovereign_states_by_date_of_formation
So what did this parable mean before the founding of Israel in 1948 assuming when you guys say Israel, you are referring to the Israel founded in 1948
The page here is referring to national Israel, not the State of Israel founded in 1948. For thousands of years the tribes of Israel have been scattered amongst the nations. But in recent years they have been returning to their homeland and are now visible on the world scene (like a bud starting to blossom).
May I suggest that the point Jesus was making is that the church will be Raptured at the approach of SUMMER? Like Chuck Missler, I take the Bible both seriously and literally. Pentecost is end of May/beginning of June. “All these things” will begin to take place after the church is resurrected and Raptured. We can’t predict the day or the hour because the Temple no longer sets the calendar for Passover, so it’s about a 4 week window, and the hour can’t be predicted because the world is round and Christians live in every time zone. Finally, Leviticus 23:17 says the Firstfruit leavened wheat loaves (sinners) will be carried up from the houses to be offered as a wave offering (in the shape of a Cross) before the altar in Heaven. Firstfruit offerings and leavened offerings are not to be burnt (Lev. 2:11), meaning we the church are not appointed to suffer the fiery wrath of God! It could be this spring or next, but Jesus is drawing closer and closer. Maranatha!
The Old Testament confirms that Israel is the fig tree and that is why Jesus used it here in in theses passages. He is speaking to the Jews, his disciples, and answering their question about the signs that will announce his return. He spoke in parables that had a spiritual or prophetical truth all the time. After he had given many sighs, he then spoke of the most important sigh and ask them to learn it well emphasizing its importance and that was the fig tree coming to life again. He cursed it in Matt.21:18,19 because Israel was baring no fruit. The disciples could not understand yet about the future diaspora and a future regathering back into the land. This parable is a literal future event before his second coming and the fig’s development is a prophetical picture of Israel down through the centuries. Jesus adds more to this when he says to observe all the trees which are the Gentile nations that have formed in the last days around Israel. Research the emblems of the nations around Israel today and they are trees. One example is the cedar tree on the flag of Lebanon. His parable has a literal meaning. Israel is the fig tree: Hosea 9:10, Micah 4:4, Jer.24, Jer.8:13, Judges 9:9-15, Nahum but Palms 1:1-3 just says it. Your fathers are the fig tree and chapter 2 speaks of her enemies coming against her. Jesus is not giving them a horticultural class here but prophesying their future as a nation and answering their question about the sigh of his coming. The olive tree is also used to describe Israel so why not the fig.
Actually they both are also a vine. This was from a blue letter Bible Study. The vine is Israel’s spiritual privilege. The fig is Israel’s national privilege.and the olive tree are religious privilege. I thought it was helpful to me. Also in the context of the chapter he was talking about the last days .
All we have to know his coming is now… Pls be ready.
We do know a temple will be present in the tribulation (Revelation chapter 11) and a millennial temple will be built by Jesus Christ—”Thus speaks the LORD of hosts, saying, Behold the man whose name is The BRANCH; and he shall grow up out of his place, and he shall build the temple of the LORD: Even he shall build the temple of the LORD; and he shall bear the glory and shall sit and rule upon his throne; and he shall be a priest upon his throne: and the counsel of peace shall be between them both” (Zechariah 6:12-13)
The Jews will be dispersed from their land in the tribulation as we read in Revelation chapters 11 and 12. Their true return will occur when Christ returns to reign a thousand years from Jerusalem with His chosen people the Jews. The wondrous millennial period of come.
Please read my book, “Revelation the Explanation”—https://vallee7.wordpress.com/2009/08/27/revelation-chapters-1-10-explained/
could the Temple referred to in Zechariah be the heart of the believer? The temple of the Holy Spirit? The old temple ceased to be of use after Messiah came. why would He rebuild it again?There will be no need for animalk sacrifices as the ultiumate sacrifice had already been paid.
Thank you for your comments. According to Ezekiel 40-48 (especially 47) and Zech 14 there will definitely be a new temple in Jerusalem from which Christ reigns.
No 3rd temple. Believers are the temple.
Jesus dwelling within us 🦉Replacing blood from a perfect RED BULL ,& a temple made of stone will only lead to Israel’s acceptance of the Antichrist 🙏
Amen.
Jesus, of course is the Branch who grew up out of dry ground. He is indeed building the Temple of the Lord, the Temple of His Body, the Church, built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, to be a dwelling in which God lives by the Spirit. He is the image of the invisible God, full of His glory, and presently reigns over the kings of the earth, sitting on the Father’s throne, walking among the Lampstands as a High Priest after the order of Melchizadek.
Will God dwell in Temples made with hands? Or are God and the Lamb a Temple dwelling in the midst of their people?
Revelation 21:22
“And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of [that great city, the holy Jerusalem, descending out of heaven from God; the bride, the Lamb’s wife].” May Abba give His Beloved Son’s peace to this discussion of figs, olives, grapes; The Holy Spirit KEEPS US FROM THE ETERNAL LAKE OF FIRE. The TEMPLE OF THE ALMIGHTY & THE LAMB IS THE ONLY LIGHT IN THE NEW JERUSALEM….THAT CITY HAS THE TREE OF LIFE.
I believe it will be a physical temple because Jesus Christ will be manifested and will be present in the physical during the millennial reign. Some things which were spiritual will be manifested after the Rapture, like the anti-christ… Thessalonians says “the mystery of the lawlessness ALREADY EXIST…but after the restrainer is removed the lawless will be manifested in the physical (revealed) same applied tho the Kingdom of God and of Heaven and Jesus with his temple. The temple for now is US as the CHURCH.
Thanks for the great work about the fig tree, it was on point. Jesus added that this generation will not pass until all these things be fulfilled. And we know from Gen16:15 that a generation is 100 years. SO what Matt 24:32-34 means that from 1948-2048 is when all theses things Jesus spoke about is going to happen. There are some things that Jesus said in the luke 21:34-36 that every christian has to purge him or herself with.
Thanks for your thoughts. Some argue that “generation” also means “race”. Certainly God has always ensured that a Jewish remnant survives despite 2500 years of persecution.
This is interesting because Psalms 90:10 mentions a generation is 70 years. .. The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by reason of strength
they be fourscore years, yet is their strength labor and sorrow; for it is …
I do think the article in this link is interesting. It talks about the 70 and 100 years difference.
https://www.bible-codes.org/old-prophecy_5c-Yeshua-codes.htm
Hi Nicole,
The age of a person 80 years as per Psalm 90:10.
The duration of a generation however is 100 years, see Genesis 15:13 and 16 (Israel in Egypt 400 years and leaving at 4th generation, 400/4=100)
Read Psalms 90:10..generation is 70-80 years. which is putting it pretty close to now
It was lunar years when the psalms were written…360 days/year
Psalm 90:10 talks about age of a person and not the duration of a generation.
A generation is 100 years, see Genesis 15:13 and 16 (Israel in Egypt 400 years and leaving at 4th generation, 400/4=100)
psalm 90:10 clearly defines a generation..Genesis 16:15 makes NO mention. fyi
Not sure “generation” refers to a period of years, but rather to all people in the generation who were born at the time of the restoration. So… rather that specifically 100 years or 70 years (et al) it refers to all people alive in 1948. We will never know who will be the last one from this “generation” living, but that also works for “no man knowing the day” when the end will come.
The NT term ‘generation’ can also mean ‘race’, so there is no need to discuss numbers. The Jewish race (people) will always be there, despite Iran!
Agree strongly…
If I had to give re a logical timeliness of a generation, I would say 120 years.. Why? This is the age limit God put on man after the flood.
When I was a small boy, my father took me to church. Something very strange happened to me. Something very frightening to a young child. Since then my life has been a very long and strange path, not just your normal growing up, but the persecution the loss of friendship. It was like there was something different about me it was that bad even I hated me. I had dreams, visions I could not explain and these started in my teens, and as I got into my late 40s the dream became a reality and also I have had the same dream twice. I am now 58. And the beginning of May I walked out of my job, and started reading the bible for the first time. God is coming and I am going to be in Israel when this day comes. God took my hand as a child and led me through my darkest days and has shown me many things and has now bought me back into the light. Lord I am David Abel I am your servant thy will shall be done. Amen
Thank you David for this testimony.
Beautiful David!!!! Thankyou Jesus!!!
Thank you for this article, which has been an enormous blessing to me. I remember my father saying to me years ago, ‘the fig tree is blossoming’. He used to study the scriptures regarding the restoration of Israel as a precursor to the return of Messiah. I believe this is a ‘now’ word from the Lord. Watch and wait, for his return is imminent – even at the doors. Amen – even so, come Lord Jesus.
He already is supposed to be here since 1948…he will come like he did the first time in secret and no one will recognize him .
Doesn’t Yeshua/Jesus say His return will be seen like the lightening is seen – from east to west?
[Ed]
Yes he does. It will not be a secret for the Second Coming.
He will come again in a cloud and cloud means flesh..yeah I believe he did came in the east 🙂 since 1948 and fulfilled the root of David. But no one will believe the message just like many denied Jesus 2000 years ago. The girl mentioned it in the comment that world war 2 is in revelation and in the parable of the fig days he is AT THE DOOR!.
BUt I don’t see her comment anymore. Bible says history repeats itself and no one will believe that he came.
But Jesus’ return to earth will be unmistakable. Every eye will see Him. It will be like lightening extends from east to west (Mat 24:26,27). The Jews in Jerusalem will see Him – and mourn (Zech 12:10-14)
Does this mean you believe in world mission society church? They believe they know who second coming Jesus was?
We believe the Bible which says no one knows the day or hour when Jesus returns. But we are to observe the signs and they show His return is imminent.
You are very right about the fig tree..good work..but the Bible does mention world war 2 and 1948 like you mentioned. But I believe you are missing more information!
What do you feel is missing?
Nonsense. There are good reasons you couldnt find any Apostolic support .
The parable of the fig tree taught by Jesus himself. December may be his conception and September 29 his actual birth. Mary’s Cousin mother of John the Baptist’s father has date he was serving at the temple. Many times truth is not regarded. Celebrate and live in expectancy of his return.
That’s why Christmas is not worth celebrating and the feasts of the lord found in Deuteronomy 23 are worth celebrating. Jesus had fulfilled or will fulfil them all!! Jesus the Passover Lamb, The Firstfruits from the dead, the one with no Leaven (sinless- unleavened bread), The giver of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost) at the time of Harvest (many people were saved), Trumpets (no one knows the day or the hour of the celebration, nor of Jesus’ return), Atonement (Jesus the high priest), Tabernacles (Jesus was born and tabernacled amongst us and Rev 21)! It’s amazing. Christmas aligns ourselves with pagan celebrations (it is the birthdate of many false gods). But alignment with God in his feasts bring unending revelation
Totally agree!
The second coming of Jesus Christ … and the rapture of the catching a way of God select is clearly seen the elect in Matthew 24:30 is referring to Christians not to the Jews that rejected the Messiah Jesus Christ. There is no difference between the rapture and the second coming for they are one in the same.
Some see a brief gap (seven years) between the rapture and the actual physical return of Jesus – see https://seekingtruth.co.uk/what-is-the-rapture-in-the-bible
Not at all.. Jesus said in my Father’s house are many mansions. Where is his Father’s house? Heaven.. To prepare a place for you. Where is this place? Heaven, his Father’s house.
Who is he talking to? Believers. And if I go, I will come back and receive you on to me. He is receiving us, just as the Rapture your caught up. So that where I am. Where is he? The Father’s house in heaven. You will be with me. What he had told them was no different than being raptured, he just used the words receive you onto me instead.
A lot of truth to what you say, except for one thing. As a Christain, I understand that Christmas is every day.
100% I believe this to be true. We have been taught and stuck in traditions that are not our ways or of God. this is something that I recently have been learning. Check out Pastor Omar Thibeaux! Stay blessed Shalom!
In the Olivet Discourse Jesus gave the sign of the start of the end times Matt 24:7 “when nation turns against nation and kingdom against kingdom”.
This is a Hebrewism refering to a World War, (WW1). The same as the Egyptian civil war which was referred to as neighbor against neighbor and brother against brother in Isaiah 19:2.