Matthew 24:43

But know this, that if the goodman of the house had known in what watch the thief would come, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken up.

But {G1161} know {G1097} this {G1565}, that {G3754} if {G1487} the goodman of the house {G3617} had known {G1492} in what {G4169} watch {G5438} the thief {G2812} would come {G2064}, he would {G302} have watched {G1127}, and {G2532} would {G302} not {G3756} have suffered {G1439} his {G846} house {G3614} to be broken up {G1358}.

But you do know this: had the owner of the house known when the thief was coming, he would have stayed awake and not allowed his house to be broken into.

But understand this: If the homeowner had known in which watch of the night the thief was coming, he would have kept watch and would not have let his house be broken into.

But know this, that if the master of the house had known in what watch the thief was coming, he would have watched, and would not have suffered his house to be broken through.

Matthew 24:43 is a pivotal verse within Jesus' extensive Olivet Discourse, serving as a powerful warning about the unpredictable nature of His second coming and the critical importance of spiritual readiness. Using the relatable imagery of a homeowner and a thief, Jesus underscores the necessity of constant vigilance for those awaiting His return.

Context

This verse is an integral part of Jesus' teachings on the signs of the end of the age and His glorious second advent, found in Matthew chapters 24 and 25. Having discussed various indicators and the intensity of the great tribulation, Jesus shifts His focus to the *timing* of His return, repeatedly emphasizing its sudden and unknown nature. The parable of the thief here directly precedes other parables like the faithful and wise servant and the ten virgins, all of which reinforce the overarching theme of preparedness for the Lord's unexpected arrival.

Key Themes

  • The Unpredictable Timing of Christ's Return: The core message is that the exact hour or day of the Son of Man's coming is unknown to humanity. Just as a thief's arrival is unannounced and unexpected, so too will be the return of Jesus, highlighting the futility of trying to predict dates. This theme is further emphasized in Matthew 24:36.
  • The Necessity of Vigilance and Readiness: The hypothetical homeowner's preparedness is presented as the ideal. Believers are called to a state of continuous spiritual alertness, living in anticipation and readiness, ensuring they are not caught off guard. This involves maintaining a close relationship with God and living righteously.
  • Consequences of Unpreparedness: The "broken up" house symbolizes the negative repercussions—loss, judgment, or suffering—for those who are spiritually asleep or unready when the Lord returns. Failing to watch leads to being unprepared for a pivotal moment, a stark warning about the importance of spiritual preparedness.

Linguistic Insights

The phrase "goodman of the house" (KJV) simply translates to the master or owner of the house. The term "watch" refers to the ancient divisions of the night (e.g., the first, second, third, or fourth watch). By stating that the goodman did not know "in what watch" the thief would come, Jesus emphasizes that the precise timing of the thief's (and thus His own) arrival is completely unknown, could be at any time, and therefore demands constant vigilance.

Practical Application

This verse serves as a timeless and urgent call to spiritual vigilance for all who await Christ's return. It encourages a lifestyle of continuous readiness, not driven by fear, but by a sober understanding of the Lord's command to be prepared.

  • Live Expectantly: Instead of speculating about specific dates or signs, focus on living a life that consistently honors God and reflects His character, ready for His appearing at any moment.
  • Be Spiritually Alert: Guard against spiritual complacency, apathy, or distraction. Engage actively in prayer, Bible study, and fellowship to maintain a vibrant faith.
  • Fulfill Your Purpose: Like the faithful servant in subsequent parables, be found diligently serving God and fulfilling your calling until He comes (Luke 12:42-48).

The message of Matthew 24:43 is a powerful reminder that our readiness for Christ's return is a paramount aspect of our Christian walk.

Note: Commentary was generated by an advanced AI, utilizing a prompt that emphasized Biblical fidelity over bias. We've found these insights to be consistently reliable, yet we always encourage prayerful discernment through the Holy Spirit. The Scripture text and cross-references are from verified, non-AI sources.

  • Luke 12:39

    And this know, that if the goodman of the house had known what hour the thief would come, he would have watched, and not have suffered his house to be broken through.

  • Matthew 24:44

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

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:2

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

  • 1 Thessalonians 5:6

    ¶ Therefore let us not sleep, as [do] others; but let us watch and be sober.

  • 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.

  • 2 Peter 3:11

    ¶ [Seeing] then [that] all these things shall be dissolved, what manner [of persons] ought ye to be in [all] holy conversation and godliness,

  • Exodus 22:2

    If a thief be found breaking up, and be smitten that he die, [there shall] no blood [be shed] for him.

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