Lecture Notes: The Fig Tree Prophecy

Introduction

• Topic: End Times Parable of the Fig Tree
• Main Idea: Understanding the parable of the fig tree in relation to Israel and prophecies about the end times.
• Key Question: Does the fig tree represent Israel and signal the generation that will witness the second coming of Christ?

Understanding the Parable

• Parable Interpretation:
  • In parables, one thing often symbolizes another.
  • The fig tree is believed to symbolize Israel.
  • Jesus' parable suggests the generation witnessing Israel's rebirth (May 14, 1948) will not pass before His return.
• Calculation Based on Lifespan:
  • Psalms mention a lifespan of 70-80 years.
  • Adding 80 years to 1948 points to 2028 as a possible date for Jesus' return.
  • Other possible dates mentioned: 2030 (age 82), 2033 (age 85).

Different Interpretations

• Common Interpretation: The generation born with Israel's rebirth will live to see Jesus' return after the tribulation.
• Personal Interpretation (Lecturer's View):
  • The generation refers to the unbelieving Jews at Jesus' time and subsequent generations rejecting the Messiah.
  • These unbelieving Jews will not endure beyond the tribulation.
  • Only believing Jews will enter the millennial kingdom.

Skeptics' Viewpoint

• Luke 21 Reference:
  • Critics argue the parable is about general watchfulness, not Israel specifically.
  • Jesus mentions “all the trees,” implying awareness of the season rather than a specific end times prophecy linked to Israel.
• Lecturer's Counterpoints:
  • The events post-Ottoman Empire are cited as fulfilling the parable (new nation-states around Israel's borders).
  • The fig tree prophecies and Jesus' use of the fig tree strongly suggest Israel represents the fig tree.

Historical Context

• World War I Aftermath:
  • Ottoman Empire collapse led to the creation of modern nation-states around Israel.
  • Dates of sovereignty for surrounding nations: Saudi Arabia (1932), Lebanon (1943), Jordan (1946), Syria (1943).
  • Israel’s rebirth in 1948 fits the fig tree prophecy as its 'blossoming.'
• Fig Tree Symbolism:
  • Cursed fig tree: Represents fruitless Israel.
  • Blossoming fig tree: Represents rejuvenated, fruitful Israel post-Tribulation.

Call to Readiness

• Message: Urgency to be prepared for Jesus' return.
• Spiritual Readiness:
  • Problem: Human brokenness and sin.
  • God's Plan: Perfect design; disrupted by sin from Adam and Eve.
  • Jesus' Role: Lived a perfect life, died for humanity’s sins, and was resurrected.
  • Response Required: Repentance and faith in Jesus.
• Consequences: Separation from God (Hell) vs. Eternal life with God.
• Urgent Call: The time to act is now; salvation through Jesus must not be delayed.