24:32-33 What do we learn from what Jesus says here?

This is called the parable of the fig tree. It is also found in Mk 13:28-29 and Lk 21:29-31, and is one of many parables Jesus told pertaining to the uncertainty of the time of His second coming. Other parables are as follows (cp Mt 24:43-44).

This is called the parable of the goodman of the house. It is also found in Lk 12:29-30 (cp Mt 24:45-51). Here we have the parable of the two kinds of servants – one faithful and wise; the other unfaithful (cp Mt 25:1-13). This is called the parable of the ten virgins. It is essentially the same teaching as the three previous parables in Mt 24 (cp Mk 13:33-37).

This is called the parable of the watchful porter (cp Lk 12:35-38). This is called the parable of the watchful servants (cp Lk 12:41-48). Here we have the parable of the unfaithful servant.

The core teaching in these parables is faithfulness, preparedness and watchfulness in view of Christ’s second coming. In all of them Christ links behaviour to belief. If Christians believe in the imminence of Christ’s second coming, they must act accordingly. They cannot live to suit themselves, but must be totally consecrated to the service of God and completely yielded to the authority of Jesus.

Otherwise they will forfeit their place in God’s eternal kingdom (cp Mt 7:21-27; Jas 1:22-25). Not everyone who calls Jesus Lord will enter into the Kingdom of Heaven – only those who have prepared themselves for His return (see also comments on Mt 24:1-3, 25:1-13, Lk 12:41-48). While the primary application of the teaching in the parables subject of this study is toward those who will still be living at the time of Christ’s second coming, the teachings are relevant to all Christians in all ages. Believers today must also act in accord with their professed belief.

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