Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its twigs get tender
and its leaves come out, you know that summer is near.
Matthew 24:32
Let’s take a closer look at the prevalent view that Israel becoming a nation again is of profound importance. In the Bible, Israel’s nationality is signified by the fig tree (Jeremiah 24:5, Hosea 9:10). It is also symbolized spiritually as the vine, and religiously as an olive tree. It is believed as well that Ezekiel 37 describes Israel’s rebirth as the Valley of Dry Bones that comes to life. We only have room to discuss the fig tree today.
Interestingly, the fig tree begins to blossom in the spring on the previous year’s growth and before leaves are produced. This explains why Jesus cursed the fig tree in Matthew 21:18-22 (also Mark 11:20-25). The leaves had already come forth but there was no fruit. The parable in Luke 13:6-9 makes a similar point. Applying this to our lives, how can we prove we are growing in our faith and walk with the Lord if we produce no fruit year after year?
Now, back to Israel. In Matthew 24:32-35, in the midst of His talk about the End of the Age, Jesus says that once the fig tree starts to show leaves, summer is near. Likewise, when they see all that Jesus described as “signs of the times”, the terminus is just around the corner. In fact, much has been made of verse 34, which states that “this generation (can also be translated as “race”) will certainly not pass away until all these things have happened”.
The prevailing belief has been that once Israel became a nation again, that generation (depending on how long you believe a generation is) will live to see the End of the Age. And what a long wait it has been for the Jewish people to have a homeland again. They are a modern-day miracle in the eyes of many.
The Roman Emperor Titus destroyed Jerusalem in 70 A.D. and the Jews were scattered. Beginning with the Balfour Declaration on November 2, 1917, they began to return to the ancient land, culminating on May 14, 1948 with Israel declaring its independence. Israel was recognized by the United Nations on May 11, 1949 and Jerusalem was recaptured on June 7, 1967.
Despite being mostly surrounded by hostile Arab nations, Israel continues to exist and in many ways thrive. Now, over eight million people call it home. Nazi Germany and many other empires and nations throughout the centuries have tried, and failed, to exterminate the Jews.
Regardless of how you feel about Israel and End Times, I believe we can agree that modern-day Israel is an amazing miracle! We can also pray for a revival to break out among this people group and all people groups. May the Jews finally recognize their long-awaited Messiah. He already came and is coming again!
