In Matthew 24:32-34, Jesus gave another very important sign. “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. Verily, I say unto you, This generation shall not pass, till all these things be fulfilled.” From many other scriptures throughout the Bible we learn that the fig tree represents the nation of Israel (Jeremiah 24:1-10; 29:17-23; Luke 13:6-9). Leaves sprouting on a tree are a sign that the tree has sprung to life after a dormant winter.

Thus, Jesus was actually telling us that when we see Israel come alive as a nation (after being without a homeland for nearly 2,000 years) then we will know that God’s Kingdom is right at the door.

Has Israel put forth leaves? Yes, most definitely. After the Roman conquest, Israelites as a people were dispersed among all nations, often persecuted bitterly, having to live in Ghettos, then hunted and exterminated as undesirables. Yet Israel’s hope was strong in God’s promises of a return to their homeland. “Next year in Jerusalem” was their cry of hope. This hope was fulfilled in one of the great miracles of our day. The fig tree, Israel, put forth leaves in May 1948 when once again she became a nation after thousands of years without a homeland. No other nation has ever done this!

By all military standards, Israel should not be in existence today. In war after war, outnumbered 100 to 1, the tiny Israeli forces could not be overpowered. It is clear that God’s time clock has struck for Israel to return to their land. The Fig Tree has blossomed! Remember this was a sign that Jesus gave to show the nearness of his kingdom.