Luke 21:29-33
Chapter 21
29
And Jesus added this comparison:
“Look at the fig tree and all the trees.
30
As soon as their buds sprout, you know that summer is coming.
31
Similarly, when you see these signs happening, recognize that the kingdom of God is near.
32
Truly, I tell you, this generation will not pass away until all of this occurs.
33
Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away.”
Commentaries
The Parousia.
The cosmic events Luke describes in this passage about the coming of the Son of Man should not be taken literally; they evoke a way of thinking typical of apocalyptic literature (cf. Dn 7:13ff) and help distinguish this first manifestation, or Incarnation, of Jesus, which is subject to human nature and limitations—his second coming with all power and glory. The disciples need to be very attentive to the signs of the times (29-31); the key is to recognize them and believe that the Lord’s return will liberate all creation. This is the core of the early community’s eschatological hope, and it remains our hope.