Parable of the Budding Fig Tree

In this message we’re going to consider Jesus’ Parable of the Budding Fig Tree and see what it teaches us about the kingdom of God.

“Take a lesson from the fig tree. From the moment you notice its buds form, the merest hint of green, you know summer’s just around the corner. So it is with you: When you see all these things, you’ll know he’s at the door. Don’t take this lightly. I’m not just saying this for some future generation, but for all of you. This age continues until all these things take place. Sky and earth will wear out; my words won’t wear out.

“But the exact day and hour? No one knows that, not even
heaven’s angels, not even the Son. Only the Father knows.”
Jesus in , MSG

“In the New Testament the kingdom is affirmed to have come and
yet it lies in the future. It is just about to happen and still far off.
There are signs, but the timing of the fulfillment of the
kingdom is to us unknown and unknowable.”
Theologian Kenneth Bailey, Jesus through Middle Easter Eyes, P115

“The trees are coming into leaf
Like something almost being said…”
The Trees, Philip Larkin