But when the sun came up these tender sprouts were scorched and, since they had such tiny roots, they [quickly] withered away.

And other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and [eventually] choked out the tender sprouts.

"Now learn this parable [i.e., a brief analogy to illustrate a lesson] from the fig tree: When its tender sprouts appear and its leaves begin to develop, you know that summer is near.