Understanding the Signs of the Times
- Bishop Keith Butler
- Jul 30, 2024
- 2 min read
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. (Matthew 24:32-34)
Do not listen to anyone who says that Jesus’ return will be in “such and such” year. I can remember in the 1970s, the 1980s, and back in the year 2000, people giving years and even down to days when Jesus would return based on some far-fetched math they took from obscure Scriptures (or based on nothing). The Bible tells us clearly that no one knows the day or the hour.
However, that being said, the Bible does tell us that we will know the season. Seasons are something that anyone in an agricultural community would easily understand. There are signs that a season is approaching and ending, and we are within a particular season.
Farmers know what season is coming when the buds start showing on the fruit trees. It’s not an exact science like saying that the “spring season” will begin at 11 am on March 20. It is an understanding that because of the signs on the trees, he knows the fruit will start developing, so the farmer knows he needs to be prepared for the harvest.
Jesus emphasized that by observing the signs He described earlier in Matthew 24—such as wars, famines, earthquakes, and other events—we can understand that His return is imminent. The phrase “even at the doors” suggests that these events will indicate how near it is.
Practical Application
Do not be swayed by teachers who try to give you the exact day and time of Jesus’ coming, but do pay close attention to the signs. Don’t allow yourself to get into fear or confusion; live ready, knowing His return is very soon.
