So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
English Standard Version (ESV)
It's easy to see this verse as just about predicting future events. But the key is in the word "nigh" – it means "drawing near," not necessarily "arrived." Jesus is pointing to the signs of his coming kingdom, which isn't just a future event, but a reality that begins to unfold now as his followers see and understand these signs.
So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near.
English Standard Version (ESV)
Jesus has just described the signs that will precede the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, a devastating event for the Jewish people. He then uses the analogy of a fig tree budding to show that when these signs begin to appear, it means the "kingdom of God is near," signifying the end of the old covenant system and the triumph of His reign. This points to a significant transition, not just the end of an era but the imminent establishment of God's rule in a new way.
Jesus tells his disciples that when they see certain difficult events unfolding, they should realize something incredible is happening. It's not just destruction; it's the nearness of God's rule.
Jesus is speaking to his disciples about events that would culminate in the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. But he uses these dramatic, often frightening, signs as indicators.
A Two-Fold Fulfillment:
In both instances, the 'seeing' of these things is not about despair, but about recognizing God's sovereign hand at work, bringing His kingdom closer.
The destruction Jesus predicts wasn't just an ending; it was a paving of the way. A transition was happening, and the 'kingdom of God' was stepping into a new phase.
The commentators highlight that the destruction of the Jewish state and temple was directly linked to the advancement of God's kingdom.
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A Divine Succession:
Jesus' words point to a powerful transition where the established order made way for the more glorious, spiritual reality of His kingdom.
Understand the original words
basileia tou Theou · Greek Noun
The sovereign reign and rule of God over all creation, which is manifested both currently in the hearts of believers and ultimately in the future consummation of Christ's kingdom.
Jesus' prophecy pointed to the imminent destruction of Jerusalem and the Temple as a sign of God's judgment and the unfolding of His kingdom, not necessarily His final return.
c. 27-30 AD— this verse
Jesus' Ministry in Jerusalem
Jesus teaches and predicts the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem during his final week.
c. 30-33 AD
Crucifixion and Resurrection
Jesus is crucified and resurrected, leading to the founding of the early Christian church.
c. 40s-60s AD
Early Church Expansion
The Gospel spreads throughout the Roman Empire, with Jewish and Gentile communities forming.
c. 64 AD
Great Fire of Rome
A massive fire devastates Rome, leading to persecution of Christians under Nero.
c. 66 AD
First Jewish-Roman War Begins
Jewish revolt against Roman rule erupts, leading to widespread conflict and destruction in Judea.
70 AD
Destruction of the Jerusalem Temple
Roman legions under Titus conquer Jerusalem and destroy the Second Temple, fulfilling Jesus' prophecy.
This passage parallels Luke's statement, using the analogy of a fig tree's leaves to show that when specific signs appear, the coming of God's kingdom is very near.
Romans 13:11This verse emphasizes the nearness of salvation, urging believers to wake up from sleep and live rightly because the 'hour' of God's intervention is closer than they might think.
1 Thessalonians 5:1-6Paul warns against being caught unaware by the 'day of the Lord,' describing it as coming like a thief in the night, and instructs believers to be alert and sober, much like Jesus does in Luke 21.
1 Peter 4:7This verse directly connects the nearness of the end of all things with a call to clear thinking and self-control, reinforcing the urgency conveyed in Luke's message.
vincentLuke 21:31: "So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand."
Come to pass (γινόμενα)The present participle. Rev., more correctly, "coming to pass'" in process of fulfilment. Compare Mark 13:29.
clarkeLuke 21:31: "So likewise ye, when ye see these things come to pass, know ye that the kingdom of God is nigh at hand."
The kingdom of God is nigh at hand - After the destruction of the Jewish state, the doctrine of Christ crucified shall be preached every where, and every where prevail.
It's easy to see this verse as just about predicting future events. But the key is in the word "nigh" – it means "drawing near," not necessarily "arrived." Jesus is pointing to the signs of his coming kingdom, which isn't just a future event, but a reality that begins to unfold now as his followers see and understand these signs.
Jesus has just described the signs that will precede the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, a devastating event for the Jewish people. He then uses the analogy of a fig tree budding to show that when these signs begin to appear, it means the "kingdom of God is near," signifying the end of the old covenant system and the triumph of His reign. This points to a significant transition, not just the end of an era but the imminent establishment of God's rule in a new way.
Jesus has just described the signs that will precede the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple, a devastating event for the Jewish people. He then uses the analogy of a fig tree budding to show that when these signs begin to appear, it means the "kingdom of God is near," signifying the end of the old covenant system and the triumph of His reign. This points to a significant transition, not just the end of an era but the imminent establishment of God's rule in a new way.
"So also, when you see these things taking place, you know that the kingdom of God is near." — It's easy to see this verse as just about predicting future events. But the key is in the word "nigh" – it means "drawing near," not necessarily "arrived." Jesus is pointing to the signs of his comin…
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Last reviewed October 2026