The Budding Fig Tree

In Matthew 24:32, Jesus says:

> "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)

Sensus Plenior Interpretation

1. The Cross as a "Lie"

The **cross** appears as a **"lie"** because, in the world’s view, it depicts the **innocent Christ** as guilty. To the world, Jesus was condemned unjustly and falsely accused. His **innocence** stands in stark contrast to the accusation of guilt, and this paradox forms a **riddle** of God's salvation plan.

However, the apparent **"lie"** of the cross is the very **truth** that will be revealed. Christ’s crucifixion, while seeming like a failure and injustice, is the moment when **God's plan of salvation** is being fulfilled through the **death of the innocent Son of God** on behalf of the guilty world.

2. The Fig Tree as the Cross

In the **sensus plenior**, the fig tree represents the **cross**. The tender twigs of the fig tree, which signify the arrival of summer, point to the moment when Christ’s death on the cross, which seemed like a **lie** in human eyes, will give way to the revelation of the **truth** in His resurrection. The cross, though it appeared as an accusation of guilt, is the means by which Christ takes on the sin of the world, proving that the **truth** was hidden in the **"lie"**.

3. Twigs and Branches as Descendants of Israel

The twigs and branches of the fig tree represent the **descendants of Israel**, who, like the world, misunderstood the **truth** of Christ's **innocence** on the cross. The tender twigs point to the moment when Israel will recognize the **truth** hidden in the cross and acknowledge Christ as their **Savior**.

4. Summer as Death and Resurrection

Summer in this context represents the **death** and **resurrection** of Christ. The cross, which seemed like a **lie** (a **guilty** man being executed), would ultimately bring about the **harvest** of souls—believers who recognize the **truth** of Christ’s sacrifice.

Summary

• The **cross** appears as a **"lie"** to the world, portraying the **innocent** Christ as **guilty**.
• The **fig tree** symbolizes the cross, and the tender twigs represent the moment of the **revelation of truth**.
• The **"lie"** of Christ’s death is actually the **truth** of God’s salvation plan, revealed through His resurrection.
• The **twigs and branches** represent Israel’s recognition of the **truth** of Christ’s death and resurrection.
• **Summer** signifies the **death** and **resurrection** of Christ, which brings about the harvest of souls.

Thus, Matthew 24:32 teaches that what appears as a **lie** in the world—Christ’s innocent death on the cross—actually reveals the **truth** of God’s redemptive plan, a truth that will ultimately bring about the harvest of salvation for many.