In the past few readings, Jesus describes the signs that will precede his second coming. He also described the signs that preceded the destruction of the temple, which happened in 70 A.D. We know that this reading on the fig tree refers to the temple because Jesus has not returned. Also, the Gospel of Mark was a major source for Matthew, and in Mark verses on the temple immediately precede the fig tree. Matthew changed the order in his Gospel.
Lord, help me to consult all of your Word, the footnotes, and commentaries of Bible scholars, so I may better understand your message.
Reflections on the Word of God 