“He told them this parable: "Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.” (NIV)
“He told them a story. “ Look at a fig tree. Any tree for that matter. When the leaves begin to show, one look tells you that summer is right around the corner. The same here—when you see these things happen, you know God's kingdom is about here.” (MSG)
And He told them a parable: Look at the fig tree and all the trees; When they put forth their buds and come out in leaf, you see for yourselves and perceive and know that summer is already near. Even so, when you see these things taking place, understand and know that the kingdom of God is at hand. (AMP)
Luke 21:29-31
As far back as I can remember there has been the adage, “Seeing is believing.” And for years it has been used to support a viewpoint about various subject matters. It is used most commonly toward individuals who are not dependable, reliable, or trustworthy. In essence, their integrity is questionable, and unless their actions are seen their words cannot be trusted or believed. The adage implies that one’s belief is authenticated only by the visible. While this may have some merit, believing solely because of what you see can be deceiving if what you see is not founded on reality or based on Truth, the whole Truth, and nothing but Truth—the bible—Word of God.
However, if we associate “seeing” as signs it takes on a different perspective and meaning. For example, when traveling we depend on signs to provide directions and guide us to our destination. When we see the signs along the interstate, we know the miles between cities. We read the signs to know which way to go; therefore, signs are critical in helping us reach our destinations. If we pay attention, read and follow the signs we won’t get lost. In essence, seeing the signs is how we “know” whether or not we’re traveling in the right directions. We know the distance we must travel by the signs. In other words, we know by seeing the signs.
The above scriptures are quoted in several translations to provide clarity to what Jesus said to his disciples in response to their questions about signs of the End of the Age. Jesus told the disciples what they would experience, as well as what to expect, and what would happen. As a matter of fact, his words resounded through the portals of time until this day. Now we see the signs—insurrections, disturbances, disorder, and confusion, famines, plagues, earthquakes, contagious or infectious epidemic diseases, and men calling themselves the Messiah. Yes. The signs are before us. We are witnessing wars, rumors of war, which means natural disaster, national disorder, and social unrest. If we really stop and take a look at what’s happening in the world, we would “know” that these are signs of the end of the age. However, these are only the signs that let us know that we are traveling on the road to eternity.
Jesus concludes his discourse by giving them an illustration (parable) that we all can understand. This parable is a natural phenomenon to communicate a spiritual truth. He says, "Look at the fig tree and all the trees. When they sprout leaves, you can see for yourselves and know that summer is near. Even so, when you see these things happening, you know that the kingdom of God is near.”
Think about it. After the winter is over you see the signs of spring—leaves budding on the trees, and you know that summer is on the way. When you know that summer is near, you begin preparing for it, looking ahead and making plans to enjoy summertime.
Jesus makes his point to relate the natural to the spiritual. He says, “Even so, when you see these things taking place, understand and know that the kingdom of God is at hand. Now I ask you, wouldn’t it make sense to begin preparing now for the end times—his return?
For all who questions the authenticity of God’s Word and don’t believe it as Truth should reconsider. Look around you. The signs are visible for you to see, believe, and know. And in seeing, believing, and knowing you have the opportunity to make a decision and prepare for what’s coming—the end of times. Make the necessary preparation to be a part of the Kingdom of God that is near. Start by acknowledging (confessing), and accepting Jesus Christ into your heart according to Romans 10:9, which say, if you confess with your mouth, "Jesus is Lord," and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved.
Pray this prayer:
God, I acknowledge that you are God the Creator of heaven and earth. I openly and unashamedly confess that Jesus your Son is Lord; he died for my sins; I believe in my heart that you raised him from the dead. Forgive me of my sin. I repent (turn away from a life of disobedience). I accept and receive Jesus into my heart as Savior. I surrender to him as Lord of my life to be made whole. Thank you, Lord God for saving me.
With this action, you are saved! Be sure to get connected to a fellowship of believers that follow the teachings of Christ so that you may grow in the knowledge of God, and in your relationship with our Lord. If you desire, please email me. I am willing to assist you in your new journey of faith.
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© 2008 Queen E. F. Phillips. Majestic Worldwide Ministries, Inc. All rights reserved. NOT-FOR-PROFIT use only requires prior written permission from the author. Credit must be given to copyright owner.
