Bible Reading: Matthew 24
Matthew 24:32-33 Now learn a parable of the fig tree; When his branch is yet tender, and putteth forth leaves, ye know that summer is nigh: So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, even at the doors.
Jesus was telling his disciples about what was to come. He was telling them about the fall and destruction of Jerusalem that would happen about forty years later. He was also telling them about the coming of the Son of Man or about his Second Coming. There have been many people who have predicted dates for the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The good thing about this is that they are looking for his return. The bad thing is that Jesus himself said:
Matthew 24:36 But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.
Setting dates is not Biblical. Jesus did not want us setting dates but he does want us looking for his return. We may not know the actual day and hour, but we can know when it is getting close. The parable of the fig tree was given so we can understand that when we see things that Jesus said would happen we know the time is close. When the branch is tender and puts on leaves, summer is near. When you see wars and hear rumors of wars you know the time is near. Earthquakes, famines and pestilence are all signs of the times. Tsunamis and Haiti-like earth quakes are signs of the times. How long have we been at war now? What about the ongoing wars in Africa?
Another sign is the rise of false prophets and false Christs. This is happening all around us. The Second Coming of Jesus Christ cannot be long in coming. Are you ready?
Matthew 24:44-46 Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh. Who then is a faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath made ruler over his household, to give them meat in due season? Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.
Our Lord has left us with a task. It is to preach the gospel to every creature and to feed his lambs (Mark 16:15; John 21:15). Let’s be focused on the Master’s business because he is coming soon.
In Christ,
Rody
