Matthew 24:46

KJV

Blessed [is] that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

KJV (with Strong's)

Blessed {G3107} is that {G1565} servant {G1401}, whom {G3739} his {G846} lord {G2962} when he cometh {G2064} shall find {G2147} so {G3779} doing {G4160}.

Complete Jewish Bible

It will go well with that servant if he is found doing his job when his master comes.

Berean Standard Bible

Blessed is that servant whose master finds him doing so when he returns.

American Standard Version

Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:46 pronounces a profound blessing upon the servant who, when their lord unexpectedly returns, is found diligently and faithfully executing the duties entrusted to them. This verse, embedded within Jesus' Olivet Discourse, underscores the critical importance of vigilant stewardship and active obedience for believers awaiting Christ's second coming, promising divine commendation and ultimate happiness for those who remain engaged in their Lord's work.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 24:46 is a pivotal verse within Jesus' extensive Olivet Discourse, delivered to His disciples on the Mount of Olives (Matthew 24-25). This discourse serves as Jesus' primary teaching on eschatology, responding to the disciples' questions concerning the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple and the signs of His coming and the end of the age ([Matthew 24:3](/matthew/24-3 "Matthew 24:3 - Disciples' Questions")). Following prophecies about future tribulations and warnings against deception, Jesus transitions to a series of parables emphasizing the necessity of readiness and faithful living for His followers during the interim period before His return. Specifically, this verse concludes the [Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant](/matthew/24-45-51 "Matthew 24:45-51 - The Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant"), which immediately precedes the [Parable of the Ten Virgins](/matthew/25-1-13 "Matthew 25:1-13 - The Parable of the Ten Virgins") and the [Parable of the Talents](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents"), all of which reinforce the theme of preparedness and accountability.
* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The master-servant (or lord-slave) relationship was a fundamental social and economic institution in the ancient world, including first-century Judea. Servants (δοῦλοι, _douloi_) were often integral to a household or estate, entrusted with significant responsibilities, especially in the master's absence. Their duties could range from managing household affairs to overseeing agricultural operations or even training other servants. The expectation was that servants would act faithfully and diligently, ensuring the master's interests were upheld. The concept of an absent master who would return to inspect his servants' work was a relatable scenario for Jesus' audience. Furthermore, the Jewish expectation of the Messiah's coming often included a period of judgment and reward, providing a cultural backdrop for understanding the significance of being "found so doing" upon the Lord's return.
* **Key Themes:** Matthew 24:46 contributes significantly to several overarching themes within the Olivet Discourse and the broader Gospel of Matthew. **Vigilance and Readiness** are paramount, as the unknown timing of the Lord's return necessitates a continuous state of active preparedness, not passive waiting. This echoes Jesus' repeated command to "watch" ([Matthew 24:42](/matthew/24-42 "Matthew 24:42 - Be Ready")). The verse also highlights **Faithful Stewardship**, emphasizing that believers are entrusted with specific tasks, resources, and spiritual gifts by their Lord, for which they are accountable. The "so doing" implies diligent application of these trusts. Furthermore, the declaration "Blessed is that servant" introduces the theme of **Divine Approval and Reward**, promising a favorable outcome and profound happiness for those who demonstrate consistent obedience and service. Conversely, the implied contrast with the unfaithful servant in the broader parable underscores the theme of **Accountability** and the consequences of negligence or malfeasance.

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS

#### Key Word Analysis
* **Blessed (Greek, _makários_):** From G3107, this term signifies a state of being "supremely blest; by extension, fortunate, well off." It denotes a deep, intrinsic happiness that comes from divine favor and approval, often independent of external circumstances. In the context of Matthew 24:46, it points to the profound spiritual well-being and commendation bestowed by God upon those who live in accordance with His will, echoing the Beatitudes in [Matthew 5:3-11](/matthew/5-3-11 "Matthew 5:3-11 - The Beatitudes").
* **Servant (Greek, _doûlos_):** From G1401, this word is best translated as "slave" or "bondservant," meaning "a slave (literal or figurative, involuntary or voluntary; frequently, therefore in a qualified sense of subjection or subserviency)." It emphasizes a relationship of complete submission, ownership, and dedication to a master. For believers, it signifies a total commitment to Christ's will and purpose, not merely a casual employment, highlighting the profound nature of discipleship.
* **Lord (Greek, _kýrios_):** From G2962, this term means "supreme in authority, i.e. (as noun) controller; by implication, Master (as a respectful title)." In this context, it refers to the master of the house, but in the broader theological sense of the Olivet Discourse, it points to Jesus Christ Himself, who possesses ultimate authority and sovereignty over His followers and all creation.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Blessed is that servant":** This opening phrase immediately establishes the positive outcome for the individual described. The "blessedness" (μακάριος, _makarios_) is not merely good fortune but a state of divine favor and deep spiritual happiness, a commendation from the Lord Himself. It sets the tone for the reward of faithfulness.
* **"whom his lord":** This clause highlights the crucial relationship between the servant and the master. The servant belongs to the lord, implying ownership, authority, and responsibility. The "lord" here is Jesus Christ, emphasizing His ultimate authority and the expectation He has for those who claim to serve Him.
* **"when he cometh":** This phrase introduces the element of the master's return, which is central to the parable and the broader Olivet Discourse. The Greek verb for "cometh" (ἔρχομαι, _erchomai_) points to the act of arrival, and in this eschatological context, it specifically refers to the Second Coming of Jesus Christ. The timing is presented as unknown and potentially sudden, necessitating constant readiness.
* **"shall find so doing":** This is the critical condition for blessedness. "So doing" (οὕτω ποιέω, _houtō poiéō_) means "doing in this way," referring to the faithful and diligent execution of the master's assigned duties. It implies active, purposeful, and obedient service, not idleness or negligence. The master's finding the servant "so doing" signifies that the servant was actively engaged in the master's will at the moment of his unexpected return.

#### Literary Devices
Matthew 24:46, as part of the [Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant](/matthew/24-45-51 "Matthew 24:45-51 - The Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant"), primarily employs **Parable** as its overarching literary device. This narrative form uses a relatable, earthly scenario (a master and his servants) to convey profound spiritual truths about the Kingdom of God and the eschatological return of Christ. Within the parable, the master-servant relationship functions as a **Metaphor** for the relationship between Christ and His disciples, where disciples are called to be diligent stewards of the responsibilities entrusted to them. The verse also utilizes **Eschatological Imagery**, drawing on the expectation of a future return and judgment. Furthermore, there is an implied **Antithesis** with the unfaithful servant (described in the verses immediately following [Matthew 24:47](/matthew/24-47 "Matthew 24:47 - Reward for the Faithful Servant")), which highlights the stark contrast between the blessedness of diligence and the condemnation of neglect.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:46 stands as a powerful theological statement on the nature of Christian discipleship in light of Christ's anticipated return. It teaches that true blessedness, or divine favor, is not merely a state of being but a consequence of active, faithful obedience and diligent stewardship. The verse underscores the eschatological tension between the "already" (Christ's first coming and the inauguration of His Kingdom) and the "not yet" (His second coming and the full consummation of His Kingdom). During this interim period, believers are called to live with an eternal perspective, understanding that their present actions have eternal significance and will be subject to the Lord's scrutiny. It is a call to purposeful living, reminding us that God values our labor of love and promises a gracious reward for those found faithful.

* [Luke 12:43](/luke/12-43 "Luke 12:43 - Blessed is the Servant Found Doing")
* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Required of Stewards")
* [Revelation 16:15](/revelation/16-15 "Revelation 16:15 - Blessed is He Who Stays Awake")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:46 challenges every believer to examine their current posture and activity while awaiting the Lord's return. It moves beyond passive expectation to active engagement, urging us to be found "so doing" – diligently carrying out the work and responsibilities Christ has entrusted to us. This applies not only to overt ministry but also to our daily vocations, family duties, and community interactions, viewing them as opportunities for faithful stewardship. It calls for spiritual vigilance, ensuring our lives are aligned with God's will through prayer, Bible study, and reliance on the Holy Spirit. Ultimately, the blessedness promised is a profound encouragement to live with integrity, purpose, and devoted service, knowing that our Lord sees and values our labor of love, and that our faithfulness will be acknowledged and rewarded by Him.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What specific "doing" has the Lord entrusted to me in my current season of life, and how diligently am I pursuing it?**
* **How does the expectation of Christ's return influence my daily choices and priorities? Am I living with an eternal perspective?**
* **In what areas of my life might I be prone to complacency or idleness, and what steps can I take to cultivate greater faithfulness?**
* **How does the promise of "blessedness" motivate me to serve the Lord with greater joy and purpose, even in challenging circumstances?**

### FAQ

**What does "so doing" specifically refer to in Matthew 24:46?**

Answer: "So doing" refers to the faithful and diligent execution of the duties and responsibilities that the master (Jesus Christ) has entrusted to His servant (the believer). In the context of the preceding verses and the broader Olivet Discourse, these duties include being a wise and faithful manager of the household, providing food for fellow servants, and generally living in active obedience to the master's will. For believers today, this encompasses living out the Great Commission ([Matthew 28:19-20](/matthew/28-19-20 "Matthew 28:19-20 - The Great Commission")), exercising spiritual gifts for the edification of the church ([1 Peter 4:10](/1_peter/4-10 "1 Peter 4:10 - Use Your Gifts")), and demonstrating love for God and neighbor in all aspects of life ([Matthew 22:37-40](/matthew/22-37-40 "Matthew 22:37-40 - The Greatest Commandment")). It's about being found actively engaged in the work of the Kingdom, whatever specific form that takes for each individual.

**Is the "blessedness" in this verse a guarantee of salvation, or a reward for good works?**

Answer: The "blessedness" in Matthew 24:46 is best understood as a commendation and reward for faithful service, rather than a guarantee of salvation itself. Salvation is by grace through faith ([Ephesians 2:8-9](/ephesians/2-8-9 "Ephesians 2:8-9 - Salvation by Grace Through Faith")). However, true faith is always accompanied by good works, which are the fruit and evidence of salvation ([James 2:17-18](/james/2-17-18 "James 2:17-18 - Faith Without Works is Dead")). This verse speaks to the believer's ongoing responsibility to live out their faith diligently. The "blessedness" here signifies divine approval, honor, and a greater entrustment or reward in the Kingdom, as illustrated by the faithful servant being put in charge of "all his possessions" ([Matthew 24:47](/matthew/24-47 "Matthew 24:47 - Reward for the Faithful Servant")). It emphasizes the importance of perseverance and active obedience for those who are already Christ's.

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 24:46 finds its ultimate fulfillment and profound significance in the person and work of Jesus Christ Himself. He is the quintessential "faithful servant," who perfectly embodied diligence and obedience to His Father's will throughout His earthly ministry. From His incarnation, taking "the form of a servant" ([Philippians 2:7](/philippians/2-7 "Philippians 2:7 - Christ's Humility")), to His unwavering commitment to complete the work given to Him ([John 4:34](/john/4-34 "John 4:34 - Jesus' Food is to Do God's Will")), Jesus consistently lived "so doing." His first coming established the Kingdom and entrusted His disciples with its ongoing work, and His promised second coming is the very "cometh" that this verse anticipates. Moreover, it is through Christ's atoning sacrifice that we, as His servants, are empowered to be "found so doing." We are made new creations in Him ([2 Corinthians 5:17](/2_corinthians/5-17 "2 Corinthians 5:17 - New Creation in Christ")), enabling us to walk in the good works He has prepared for us ([Ephesians 2:10](/ephesians/2-10 "Ephesians 2:10 - Created for Good Works")). Thus, our blessedness in being found faithful is not merely a result of our own effort, but a gracious outcome made possible by Christ's perfect faithfulness and His empowering presence within us through the Holy Spirit ([John 15:5](/john/15-5 "John 15:5 - Abiding in Christ")).

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

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.

Luke 12:43

Blessed [is] that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing.

Luke 12:37

Blessed [are] those servants, whom the lord when he cometh shall find watching: verily I say unto you, that he shall gird himself, and make them to sit down to meat, and will come forth and serve them.

Revelation 2:19

I know thy works, and charity, and service, and faith, and thy patience, and thy works; and the last [to be] more than the first.

Matthew 25:34

Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world:

2 Timothy 4:6

For I am now ready to be offered, and the time of my departure is at hand.

2 Timothy 4:8

Henceforth there is laid up for me a crown of righteousness, which the Lord, the righteous judge, shall give me at that day: and not to me only, but unto all them also that love his appearing.