Matthew 24:33

KJV

So likewise ye, when ye shall see all these things, know that it is near, [even] at the doors.

KJV (with Strong's)

So {G3779} likewise {G2532} ye {G5210}, when {G3752} ye shall see {G1492} all {G3956} these things {G5023}, know {G1097} that {G3754} it is {G2076} near {G1451}, even at {G1909} the doors {G2374}.

Complete Jewish Bible

In the same way, when you see all these things, you are to know that the time is near, right at the door.

Berean Standard Bible

So also, when you see all these things, you will know that He is near, right at the door.

American Standard Version

even so ye also, when ye see all these things, know ye that he is nigh, even at the doors.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:33 serves as a crucial interpretive key within Jesus' Olivet Discourse, instructing His disciples to discern the signs of the times. Following the parable of the fig tree, this verse emphasizes that just as natural phenomena signal seasonal changes, so too will the prophetic events outlined by Jesus unmistakably indicate the imminent arrival of His glorious Second Coming and the consummation of the age. It is a call to perceptive understanding and an assurance of the certainty and proximity of these ultimate events.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically positioned immediately after the [Parable of the Fig Tree](/matthew/24-32 "Matthew 24:32 - The Parable of the Fig Tree"), which Jesus uses as an illustrative analogy. In the preceding verses of [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), Jesus has been responding to the disciples' questions regarding the destruction of the temple and the signs of His coming and the end of the age (cf. [Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Matthew 24:3 - Disciples' Questions")). He meticulously describes a series of escalating global calamities, false messiahs, persecutions, and the worldwide proclamation of the gospel (cf. [Matthew 24:4-14](/matthew/24-4-14 "Matthew 24:4-14 - Signs of the End")). The parable and subsequent interpretation in [Matthew 24:32-33](/matthew/24-32-33 "Matthew 24:32-33 - The Fig Tree Analogy") serve to clarify how His followers should interpret these unfolding events, assuring them that these signs are not random occurrences but precise indicators of His return.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** Jesus' discourse takes place on the Mount of Olives, overlooking the Jerusalem temple, which He had just prophesied would be utterly destroyed (cf. [Matthew 24:1-2](/matthew/24-1-2 "Matthew 24:1-2 - Prophecy of Temple Destruction")). The disciples, steeped in Jewish apocalyptic expectations, would have understood the concept of "signs" preceding a major divine intervention or the arrival of the Messiah. The imagery of a fig tree budding was a common and easily recognizable sign of summer's approach in the agrarian society of ancient Israel. Similarly, the concept of something being "at the doors" was a vivid idiom conveying extreme proximity, often used for an unexpected or imminent arrival, such as a guest or a significant event. This cultural understanding would have underscored the urgency and certainty of Jesus' message.
* **Key Themes:** The overarching themes in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse") that this verse significantly contributes to include **Eschatological Vigilance**, emphasizing the need for believers to be spiritually awake and discerning concerning the signs of the end times. It also highlights the **Certainty of Prophecy's Fulfillment**, asserting that just as natural seasons are predictable, so too are God's prophetic plans infallible and destined to unfold. Furthermore, the verse underscores the theme of **Imminent Return**, conveying a sense of proximity regarding Christ's Second Coming, which should motivate faithful living and evangelistic fervor (cf. [Matthew 24:14](/matthew/24-14 "Matthew 24:14 - The Gospel Preached to All Nations")). While the exact timing remains unknown to humanity (cf. [Matthew 24:36](/matthew/24-36 "Matthew 24:36 - No One Knows the Day or Hour")), the signs will clearly indicate its nearness.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **know (Greek, _ginṓskō_):** This verb signifies more than mere intellectual apprehension; it implies a deep, experiential knowledge or recognition. It's not just about being aware of facts, but about understanding their significance and implications. Here, Jesus commands His disciples not just to observe the signs, but to truly comprehend what they signify concerning His return.
* **near (Greek, _engýs_):** This adverb denotes proximity, either in terms of place or time. In this context, it refers to temporal closeness, indicating that the event of Christ's coming is not distant but rapidly approaching once "all these things" begin to unfold. It conveys a sense of urgency and immediacy.
* **doors (Greek, _thýra_):** Literally referring to a portal or entrance, "doors" here is part of an idiomatic expression ("at the doors"). It paints a vivid picture of something or someone standing right outside, poised to enter. This imagery powerfully communicates extreme closeness, suggesting that the event is on the very threshold of occurring.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"So likewise ye,"**: This phrase connects the verse directly to the preceding parable of the fig tree. "So likewise" (Greek: _houtō kai_ - "thus also") draws a parallel, indicating that the disciples are to apply the same principle of discerning natural signs to the prophetic signs Jesus has just described. It shifts the focus from the general principle to the specific application for the disciples.
* **"when ye shall see all these things,"**: This clause refers to the comprehensive list of signs Jesus enumerated earlier in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), including wars, famines, earthquakes, persecutions, false prophets, and the global preaching of the gospel. The "seeing" implies not just passive observation but an active, discerning perception of these events as they unfold in history.
* **"know that it is near,"**: This is an imperative command. Upon discerning "all these things," the disciples are to "know" (understand with certainty) that "it" – referring to the coming of the Son of Man and the end of the age – is "near." This is a definitive statement of proximity, a direct consequence of observing the signs.
* **"[even] at the doors."**: This idiomatic expression reinforces and intensifies the concept of "nearness." It vividly portrays the event as being on the very threshold of manifestation, leaving no doubt about its extreme closeness once the preceding signs have begun to appear. It emphasizes the immediacy and certainty of the Lord's return.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:33 employs several powerful **literary devices** to convey its urgent message. The most prominent is **Analogy**, as the verse directly extends the **Simile** of the fig tree's budding leaves from [Matthew 24:32](/matthew/24-32 "Matthew 24:32 - The Fig Tree Analogy"). Just as the natural world provides clear indicators of seasonal change, so too do the prophetic signs indicate the approach of Christ's return. This makes a complex theological concept relatable and understandable through common experience. Furthermore, the phrase "at the doors" functions as a vivid **Idiom**, an established expression whose meaning is not directly deducible from the individual words. It is a powerful **Metaphor** for extreme proximity, painting a picture of something standing on the very threshold, ready to enter. The use of the **Imperative** "know" (Greek: _ginōskete_) transforms the observation into a command for spiritual discernment, urging active understanding rather than passive awareness. Finally, the entire passage is a form of **Prophecy**, offering future-oriented insights into the culmination of history, providing both warning and hope.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:33 profoundly impacts our understanding of eschatology, emphasizing the importance of discerning the signs of Christ's return not as a means to pinpoint an exact date, but as a call to spiritual readiness and urgent mission. It underscores God's sovereign control over history, assuring believers that events are unfolding according to His divine timetable, culminating in the glorious return of His Son. This verse serves as a constant reminder that while the day and hour remain unknown, the signs will clearly indicate the season of His coming, prompting a life of expectant watchfulness and faithful stewardship until He appears.

* [Luke 21:31](/luke/21-31 "Luke 21:31 - The Kingdom of God is Near")
* [James 5:9](/james/5-9 "James 5:9 - The Judge is Standing at the Door")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:6](/1_thessalonians/5-6 "1 Thessalonians 5:6 - Be Alert and Sober")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:33 serves as a timeless call to spiritual vigilance and a profound source of hope for believers across generations. It encourages us not to be caught off guard by the unfolding of global events, but to view them through a biblical lens, recognizing them as divinely orchestrated indicators of Christ's imminent return. This understanding should not breed fear or speculative date-setting, but rather a deep sense of purpose and urgency. Knowing that the Lord is "at the doors" should compel us to live with intentionality, prioritizing what truly matters in light of eternity. It motivates us to cultivate a deeper relationship with God, to live lives of holiness and integrity, and to passionately engage in the Great Commission, sharing the hope of the gospel with a world desperately in need. Our anticipation of His coming should fuel our worship, purify our motives, and strengthen our resolve to faithfully serve Him until He appears in glory.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does understanding the "nearness" of Christ's return impact your daily priorities and decisions?**
* **In what ways can we cultivate a spirit of discernment regarding the "signs of the times" without falling into speculation or fear?**
* **How does the certainty of Christ's return motivate you to live a more holy and purposeful life?**

### FAQ
**What are "all these things" that Jesus refers to in Matthew 24:33?**

Answer: "All these things" refers to the various prophetic signs and events Jesus describes earlier in [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), particularly from [Matthew 24:4-31](/matthew/24-4-31 "Matthew 24:4-31 - Signs of the End Times"). These include a series of escalating global distresses such as wars, famines, earthquakes, and pestilences (cf. [Matthew 24:6-7](/matthew/24-6-7 "Matthew 24:6-7 - Birth Pains")). Jesus also mentions the rise of false Christs and prophets, the persecution of believers, the increase of lawlessness, and the global preaching of the gospel to all nations (cf. [Matthew 24:11-14](/matthew/24-11-14 "Matthew 24:11-14 - Deception and Gospel Proclamation")). These signs are likened to "birth pains" (cf. [Matthew 24:8](/matthew/24-8 "Matthew 24:8 - Beginning of Birth Pains")), indicating an intensifying frequency and severity as the time of His return draws closer.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 24:33, while speaking of signs and an imminent future event, finds its ultimate fulfillment and meaning in the person and work of Jesus Christ. The "it" that is "near, even at the doors" is not merely an abstract event, but the glorious return of the [King of Kings and Lord of Lords](/revelation/19-16 "Revelation 19:16 - King of Kings and Lord of Lords"). The signs themselves are not random occurrences but are part of God's sovereign plan, orchestrated to herald the coming of His Son, who will establish His eternal kingdom (cf. [Revelation 11:15](/revelation/11-15 "Revelation 11:15 - The Kingdom of the World Becomes the Kingdom of Our Lord")). Jesus, who first came in humility to suffer and die for the sins of the world (cf. [Philippians 2:7-8](/philippians/2-7-8 "Philippians 2:7-8 - Christ's Humiliation")), will return in power and great glory to judge the living and the dead and to gather His elect (cf. [Matthew 24:30-31](/matthew/24-30-31 "Matthew 24:30-31 - The Coming of the Son of Man")). Therefore, the "nearness" of these events points directly to the culmination of God's redemptive history in Christ, where every knee will bow and every tongue confess that [Jesus Christ is Lord](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Jesus is Lord"), to the glory of God the Father. His return is the ultimate hope, the blessed expectation that completes the work He began at His first advent, bringing full salvation to His people and righteous judgment to the earth.

Note: Commentary is generated by AI with a directive for Biblical fidelity. Always rely on the Holy Spirit for discernment. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

Cross-References

James 5:9

Grudge not one against another, brethren, lest ye be condemned: behold, the judge standeth before the door.

Hebrews 10:37

For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry.

Ezekiel 7:2

Also, thou son of man, thus saith the Lord GOD unto the land of Israel; An end, the end is come upon the four corners of the land.

Ezekiel 7:14

They have blown the trumpet, even to make all ready; but none goeth to the battle: for my wrath [is] upon all the multitude thereof.

1 Peter 4:7

¶ But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

Revelation 3:20

Behold, I stand at the door, and knock: if any man hear my voice, and open the door, I will come in to him, and will sup with him, and he with me.