Matthew 24:36

KJV

But of that day and hour knoweth no [man], no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only.

KJV (with Strong's)

But {G1161} of {G4012} that {G1565} day {G2250} and {G2532} hour {G5610} knoweth {G1492} no {G3762} man, no, not {G3761} the angels {G32} of heaven {G3772}, but {G1508} my {G3450} Father {G3962} only {G3441}.

Complete Jewish Bible

"But when that day and hour will come, no one knows -- not the angels in heaven, not the Son, only the Father.

Berean Standard Bible

No one knows about that day or hour, not even the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.

American Standard Version

But of that day and hour knoweth no one, not even the angels of heaven, neither the Son, but the Father only.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:36 stands as a definitive statement by Jesus within His Olivet Discourse, asserting the absolute and exclusive knowledge of God the Father regarding the precise timing of the end of the age and the Son of Man's return. This verse unequivocally declares that neither human beings nor even the highest angelic beings in heaven possess this specific information, underscoring the profound mystery surrounding the eschatological climax and redirecting focus from speculative curiosity to a posture of faithful watchfulness and preparedness.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** This verse is strategically placed within the larger prophetic discourse known as the [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), which spans [Matthew 24](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse") and [Matthew 25](/matthew/25 "Matthew 25 - Parables of Preparedness"). Jesus delivers this teaching in response to His disciples' questions about the destruction of the Temple and the signs of His coming and the end of the age, as recorded in [Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Matthew 24:3 - Disciples' Questions"). Prior to this verse, Jesus describes various signs, including false Christs, wars, famines, earthquakes ([Matthew 24:4-8](/matthew/24-4-8 "Matthew 24:4-8 - Signs of the End")), persecution ([Matthew 24:9-14](/matthew/24-9-14 "Matthew 24:9-14 - Tribulations and the Gospel")), the "abomination of desolation" ([Matthew 24:15-28](/matthew/24-15-28 "Matthew 24:15-28 - The Great Tribulation")), and cosmic disturbances accompanying His glorious return ([Matthew 24:29-31](/matthew/24-29-31 "Matthew 24:29-31 - The Coming of the Son of Man")). Following these detailed prophecies and the parable of the fig tree ([Matthew 24:32-35](/matthew/24-32-35 "Matthew 24:32-35 - The Parable of the Fig Tree")), which indicates that the signs will reveal the *nearness* of His coming, [Matthew 24:36](/matthew/24-36 "Matthew 24:36 - The Unknown Day and Hour") serves as a crucial counterpoint, emphasizing that despite the discernible signs, the *exact moment* remains a divine secret. It sets the stage for the subsequent parables that stress readiness and vigilance.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The disciples' questions in [Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Matthew 24:3 - Disciples' Questions") reflect common Jewish eschatological expectations concerning the Messiah's coming, the end of the present age, and the establishment of God's kingdom. Many Jews anticipated a dramatic, unmistakable intervention by God to usher in the messianic era, often linked with the destruction of oppressive powers (like Rome) and the restoration of Israel. However, the concept of a precise, divinely predetermined "Day of the Lord" was also deeply rooted in Old Testament prophecy, where its timing was often depicted as sudden and unexpected (e.g., [Isaiah 13:6-9](/isaiah/13-6-9 "Isaiah 13:6-9 - The Day of the Lord"), [Joel 2:1-2](/joel/2-1-2 "Joel 2:1-2 - The Day of the Lord is Near")). Jesus' statement in [Matthew 24:36](/matthew/24-36 "Matthew 24:36 - The Unknown Day and Hour") aligns with this tradition of divine hiddenness regarding ultimate timing, while simultaneously challenging any human presumption of knowing God's precise schedule. It also implicitly corrects any expectation that the disciples, or anyone else, would be privy to such specific details, reinforcing the unique prerogative of God the Father.
* **Key Themes:** This verse powerfully contributes to several key themes within the Olivet Discourse and the broader New Testament. Firstly, it highlights **Divine Sovereignty**, asserting God the Father's absolute and exclusive control over the timing of history's culmination. This underscores His supreme authority and omniscient plan, which transcends human comprehension or manipulation. Secondly, it emphasizes **Universal Ignorance**, explicitly stating that neither humanity nor even the highest echelons of angelic beings possess this specific knowledge. This serves to humble any who might claim special insight or attempt to set dates for the Lord's return, directly countering such speculation. Thirdly, and perhaps most importantly, the unknown timing implicitly, and other verses in this discourse explicitly, drive home the theme of **Call to Preparedness**. Because the exact "day and hour" are undisclosed, believers are called to live in continuous watchfulness and spiritual readiness. This imperative is echoed throughout the discourse, such as in [Matthew 24:42](/matthew/24-42 "Matthew 24:42 - Be Watchful"), where Jesus commands, "Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come." The element of surprise is a recurring motif, also found in [1 Thessalonians 5:2](/1_thessalonians/5-2 "1 Thessalonians 5:2 - The Day of the Lord Comes Like a Thief"), where the "day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night." This unknown timing shifts the focus from chronological curiosity to faithful living and active obedience.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **knoweth (Greek, _eídō'_):** This verb, G1492, denotes an intuitive, complete, and settled knowledge, rather than merely having information. It implies a deep, inherent understanding. When Jesus states that only the Father "knoweth," He is emphasizing a unique, intrinsic comprehension that is not shared with anyone else. This is distinct from merely being aware of something; it speaks to a fundamental, exclusive possession of this knowledge.
* **day (Greek, _hēméra'_):** G2250, refers to a time space, specifically the time between dawn and dark, or the whole 24 hours. Figuratively, it denotes a period, always defined more or less clearly by the context. In this eschatological context, "that day" refers to the specific, climactic period of the Lord's return and the end of the age, signifying the precise point in time when these ultimate events will transpire.
* **only (Greek, _mónos'_):** G3441, meaning "remaining, i.e., sole or single; by implication, mere." This word strongly emphasizes exclusivity. When applied to the Father, it underscores that this knowledge is His alone, without any partners or sharers. It highlights His unique prerogative and sovereignty over this ultimate revelation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"But of that day and hour knoweth no man,"**: This opening clause, introduced by "But" (G1161, _dé_), immediately sets a contrast with the preceding discussion of signs. It declares a universal ignorance among humanity regarding the precise moment ("day and hour") of the eschatological climax. The phrase "no man" (G3762, _oudeís_) is an absolute negation, leaving no room for human insight or calculation.
* **"no, not the angels of heaven,"**: This phrase intensifies the preceding negation, extending the circle of ignorance beyond humanity to include even the angelic realm. Angels, who are spiritual beings with access to divine knowledge and who serve as messengers of God (G32, _ángelos_), are explicitly excluded from this specific revelation. This further emphasizes the profound secrecy of the timing and the unique nature of this divine knowledge.
* **"but my Father only."**: This concluding clause provides the definitive answer to who possesses this knowledge. The conjunction "but" (G1508, _ei mḗ_) introduces the sole exception: God the Father (G3962, _patḗr_). The word "only" (G3441, _mónos_) powerfully reinforces the exclusivity, underscoring that this is a unique prerogative of the First Person of the Trinity. This statement highlights the Father's ultimate sovereignty and omniscience.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:36 employs several potent literary devices to convey its profound theological truth. The most prominent is **Emphasis through Negation and Exclusion**. Jesus uses a double negative ("no man, no, not the angels") to create a strong, unequivocal statement about universal ignorance, which then serves to highlight the singular exception. This rhetorical technique builds suspense and then delivers a powerful punchline. There is also a clear **Contrast** established between the widespread lack of knowledge (humanity and angels) and the exclusive possession of this knowledge by God the Father. This contrast underscores the Father's unique authority and sovereign control over the ultimate timeline. Furthermore, the verse embodies the theological concept of **Divine Secrecy or Mystery**, presenting the timing of the end as a truth intentionally hidden by God, not for arbitrary reasons, but for purposes related to human faithfulness and divine prerogative. The use of "day and hour" is a form of **Merism**, where two distinct parts are named to represent the whole, signifying the entirety of the precise moment.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:36 is a cornerstone for understanding Christian eschatology, particularly regarding the timing of Christ's return. It firmly establishes the principle of divine prerogative, asserting that the precise moment of the end is solely within the Father's domain. This truth safeguards against human speculation and date-setting, grounding our hope not in a calendar, but in the character and sovereignty of God. It highlights the Father's omniscience and omnipotence, demonstrating that He orchestrates all of history according to His perfect will, with a timetable known only to Himself. For believers, this means that while the signs of the times may indicate the season of Christ's coming, the exact day and hour remain a divine secret, necessitating a constant posture of spiritual readiness and faithful living rather than chronological curiosity.

* [Mark 13:32](/mark/13-32 "Mark 13:32 - The Parallel Account of Unknown Timing")
* [Acts 1:7](/acts/1-7 "Acts 1:7 - The Father's Authority Over Times and Seasons")
* [1 Thessalonians 5:1-2](/1_thessalonians/5-1-2 "1 Thessalonians 5:1-2 - The Day of the Lord Comes Like a Thief")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:36 carries profound implications for how believers are to live in light of Christ's promised return. Far from fostering apathy or despair, the unknown timing serves as a powerful impetus for constant vigilance and faithful stewardship. It emphatically discourages any form of date-setting or speculative predictions about the end times, as such attempts directly contradict Jesus' own explicit words. Instead, our focus is shifted from unrevealed details to revealed duties: living holy lives, actively sharing the Gospel, and serving others as if today could be the day of the Lord's return. This verse cultivates humility, reminding us that God's ways and timing are higher than our own, and calls us to trust in His perfect plan. Our ultimate hope is not in deciphering a timeline, but in the certain promise of Christ's return and the consummation of His kingdom, motivating us to be found faithful and productive until He comes.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **How does the truth that only the Father knows the day and hour of Christ's return impact your personal spiritual walk?**
* **In what ways might the temptation to speculate about end-times timing distract from living a life of faithful obedience and service?**
* **Given the unknown timing, what practical steps can you take to cultivate a posture of continuous watchfulness and readiness?**
* **How does this verse encourage humility and trust in God's sovereign plan, even when details are withheld?**

### FAQ

**Does "knoweth no man" imply that Jesus, as the Son of God, was also ignorant of the timing?**

Answer: This is a profound theological question that touches on the mystery of Christ's dual nature—fully God and fully human. When Jesus states in [Matthew 24:36](/matthew/24-36 "Matthew 24:36 - The Unknown Day and Hour") and its parallel in [Mark 13:32](/mark/13-32 "Mark 13:32 - The Parallel Account of Unknown Timing") that "of that day and that hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father," it refers to His self-limitation in His incarnate state. As the eternal Son of God, co-equal with the Father, He possesses all divine knowledge. However, in His humanity, Jesus voluntarily "emptied himself" (Greek: _kenosis_), as described in [Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humiliation"), taking on the form of a servant. This self-limitation meant that, in His human capacity, He did not access all of the divine knowledge that was inherently His as God. It was a functional limitation, not an ontological one, demonstrating His perfect obedience and dependence on the Father during His earthly ministry. Therefore, in His incarnate state, Jesus chose not to know this specific detail, aligning Himself fully with humanity's limitations while on earth.

**Why does God keep the timing of Christ's return a secret?**

Answer: The divine secrecy regarding the precise timing of Christ's return serves several crucial theological and practical purposes. Firstly, it underscores God's absolute **sovereignty** and control over history, ensuring that no human or angelic being can manipulate or predict His ultimate plan. Secondly, it fosters a necessary **posture of vigilance and readiness** among believers. If the exact time were known, there would be a temptation to procrastinate spiritual preparation until the last moment. However, because the time is unknown, believers are called to live in constant expectation, as illustrated in the parables of the wise and foolish virgins ([Matthew 25:1-13](/matthew/25-1-13 "Matthew 25:1-13 - Parable of the Ten Virgins")) and the talents ([Matthew 25:14-30](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - Parable of the Talents")). This encourages faithful stewardship, active evangelism (e.g., [Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")), and holy living at all times. Thirdly, it promotes **trust and humility**, preventing human pride or speculative endeavors that might detract from genuine faith and obedience. The unknown timing ensures that our hope is placed squarely on Christ Himself and His certain promise to return, rather than on a specific date.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
While Matthew 24:36 emphasizes the Father's exclusive knowledge of the precise timing of the end, it paradoxically deepens our focus on Christ as the central figure of all eschatological hope and fulfillment. The "day and hour" refer to the glorious return of the Son of Man, the very event that will consummate God's redemptive plan. Though the *when* is hidden, the *who* is revealed: Jesus Christ, who first came in humility to redeem humanity, will return in power and glory to judge the living and the dead and establish His eternal kingdom. His first coming inaugurated the "last days" ([Hebrews 1:1-2](/hebrews/1-1-2 "Hebrews 1:1-2 - God Has Spoken by His Son")), and His second coming will bring them to their triumphant conclusion. Therefore, the mystery of the timing serves not to obscure Christ, but to intensify our anticipation of Him. We are called to live in constant expectation of the One who promised, "Surely I am coming quickly" ([Revelation 22:20](/revelation/22-20 "Revelation 22:20 - Jesus' Promise to Return Quickly")), and to fix our hope on the "blessed hope and glorious appearing of our great God and Savior Jesus Christ" ([Titus 2:13](/titus/2-13 "Titus 2:13 - The Blessed Hope")). Our citizenship is in heaven, from which we eagerly await a Savior, the Lord Jesus Christ, who will transform our lowly body to be like His glorious body ([Philippians 3:20-21](/philippians/3-20-21 "Philippians 3:20-21 - Our Citizenship and Christ's Return")). The unknown day thus compels us to live every day for Him, the Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, who holds all time in His hands.

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

Mark 13:32

But of that day and [that] hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels which are in heaven, neither the Son, but the Father.

Acts 1:7

And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power.

Matthew 24:44

Therefore be ye also ready: for in such an hour as ye think not the Son of man cometh.

2 Peter 3:10

But the day of the Lord will come as a thief in the night; in the which the heavens shall pass away with a great noise, and the elements shall melt with fervent heat, the earth also and the works that are therein shall be burned up.

1 Thessalonians 5:2

For yourselves know perfectly that the day of the Lord so cometh as a thief in the night.

Matthew 24:42

Watch therefore: for ye know not what hour your Lord doth come.

Revelation 16:15

Behold, I come as a thief. Blessed [is] he that watcheth, and keepeth his garments, lest he walk naked, and they see his shame.