Matthew 24:32-44

32“Now learn this lesson from the fig tree: As soon as its young shoots become tender and it puts out its leaves, you know that summer is near;

33so you, too, when you see all these things [taking place], know for certain that He is near, right at the door.

34I assure you and most solemnly say to you, this generation [the people living when these signs and events begin] will not pass away until all these things take place.

35Heaven and earth [as now known] will pass away, but My words will not pass away.

36“But of that [exact] day and hour no one knows, not even the angels of heaven, nor the Son [in His humanity], but the Father alone.

37For the coming of the Son of Man (the Messiah) will be just like the days of Noah.

38For as in those days before the flood they were eating and drinking, marrying and giving in marriage, until the [very] day when Noah entered the ark,

39and they did not know or understand until the flood came and swept them all away; so will the coming of the Son of Man be [unexpected judgment].

40At that time two men will be in the field; one will be taken [for judgment] and one will be left.

41Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken [for judgment] and one will be left.

42“So be alert [give strict attention, be cautious and active in faith], for you do not know which day [whether near or far] your Lord is coming.

43But understand this: If the head of the house had known what time of the night the thief was coming, he would have been on the alert and would not have allowed his house to be broken into.

44Therefore, you [who follow Me] must also be ready; because the Son of Man is coming at an hour when you do not expect Him.