Matthew 24:47

KJV

Verily I say unto you, That he shall make him ruler over all his goods.

KJV (with Strong's)

Verily {G281} I say {G3004} unto you {G5213}, That {G3754} he shall make {G2525} him {G846} ruler {G2525} over {G1909} all {G3956} his {G846} goods {G5224}.

Complete Jewish Bible

Yes, I tell you that he will put him in charge of all he owns.

Berean Standard Bible

Truly I tell you, he will put him in charge of all his possessions.

American Standard Version

Verily I say unto you, that he will set him over all that he hath.

Commentary

### SUMMARY
Matthew 24:47 concludes the Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant, a key component of Jesus' Olivet Discourse. This verse pronounces a profound reward for the servant who, upon the master's unexpected return, is found diligently managing his household and possessions. It underscores the principle that faithfulness and responsible stewardship in the present, particularly in light of Christ's anticipated return, will be met with significant divine recognition, promotion, and greater responsibility in the future kingdom.

### CONTEXT
* **Literary Context:** Matthew 24:47 is the climactic statement of the Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant, found in [Matthew 24:45-51](/matthew/24-45-51 "Matthew 24:45-51 - The Parable of the Faithful and Wise Servant"). This parable is strategically placed within the broader [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), Jesus' extensive teaching on the Mount of Olives concerning the signs of His coming and the end of the age. The preceding verses (Matthew 24:45-46) introduce the contrast between the faithful servant, who provides food for the household at the proper time, and the wicked servant, who neglects his duties. Verse 47 serves as the direct promise of reward for the diligent servant, immediately preceding the dire consequences outlined for the unfaithful one in Matthew 24:48-51. Thus, it functions as a powerful incentive and a clear articulation of the positive outcome of vigilance.

* **Historical & Cultural Context:** The parable reflects the common master-servant relationships prevalent in the ancient Near East. A wealthy landowner (master) would often entrust the management of his entire estate, including other servants and resources, to a trusted steward (servant) while he was away, perhaps on a long journey. The steward's responsibility was comprehensive, requiring integrity, diligence, and foresight. The master's unexpected return was a common motif in such narratives, emphasizing the need for constant readiness and accountability. The "goods" (Greek: *hypárchonta*) would include not only material possessions but also the management of the master's affairs, his reputation, and the well-being of his household. This context highlights the significant trust placed in the servant and the immense authority implied by being made "ruler over all his goods."

* **Key Themes:** This verse, within its broader context, contributes to several foundational themes. Foremost is the theme of **Stewardship and Accountability**, emphasizing that believers are entrusted with God's resources—time, talents, spiritual gifts, material possessions, and opportunities—and are expected to manage them faithfully until Christ's return. It powerfully illustrates the theme of **Reward for Faithfulness**, demonstrating that diligent service is not overlooked but will be honored with divine recognition and increased responsibility, as also seen in the Parable of the Talents in [Matthew 25:14-30](/matthew/25-14-30 "Matthew 25:14-30 - The Parable of the Talents"). The underlying call for **Preparedness and Vigilance** is central to the entire [Olivet Discourse](/matthew/24 "Matthew 24 - The Olivet Discourse"), urging believers to live in constant readiness for the Lord's unexpected return, actively engaged in their assigned duties rather than idly waiting or neglecting responsibilities. Finally, the promise of being made "ruler over all his goods" points to **Divine Recognition and Future Authority**, suggesting that faithful service in this life prepares believers for significant roles and blessings in God's eternal kingdom, a concept echoed in passages like [Revelation 2:26-27](/revelation/2-26-27 "Revelation 2:26-27 - Authority Over the Nations").

### EXPOSITION AND ANALYSIS
#### Key Word Analysis
* **Verily (Greek, _amḗn'_):** This word, transliterated from the Hebrew, signifies "firm," "trustworthy," or "surely." When Jesus uses "Verily I say unto you," it serves as a solemn affirmation, underscoring the absolute truth and certainty of the statement that follows. It demands the listener's full attention and emphasizes the divine authority behind the promise.
* **make (Greek, _kathístēmi'_):** Derived from *katá* (down) and *hístēmi* (to stand), this verb means "to place down permanently," "to appoint," "to establish," or "to set over." It denotes a formal, authoritative, and lasting designation. The master doesn't just give a temporary assignment; he formally *appoints* the faithful servant to a position of comprehensive authority, signifying complete trust and a significant promotion.
* **goods (Greek, _hypárchonta'_):** This term refers to "things extant or in hand," specifically property, possessions, or substance. In the context of the parable, it encompasses all of the master's estate, wealth, and affairs. The faithful servant is not merely rewarded with a portion but is entrusted with the management of *all* that belongs to the master, highlighting the immense scope of the future reward and responsibility.

#### Verse Breakdown
* **"Verily I say unto you,"**: Jesus begins with a solemn and authoritative declaration, signaling the profound importance and certainty of the truth He is about to reveal. This phrase, characteristic of Jesus' teaching, underscores the divine origin and unwavering truthfulness of His words.
* **"That he shall make him ruler"**: This clause describes the master's decisive action towards the faithful servant. The master will formally appoint or establish the servant in a position of authority. This is not a casual delegation but a comprehensive and official promotion, signifying deep trust and recognition of the servant's proven faithfulness.
* **"over all his goods."**: This specifies the scope of the servant's new authority. The faithful servant will be given charge over the *entirety* of the master's possessions and estate. This indicates a reward that is not merely compensatory but transformative, elevating the servant to a position of immense responsibility and privilege, reflecting the master's complete confidence.

#### Literary Devices
The primary literary device at play in Matthew 24:47, and indeed the broader passage, is **Parable**. Jesus uses this extended metaphor of a master and servant to convey profound spiritual truths about the Kingdom of God, discipleship, and eschatology. The earthly scenario of managing a household upon a master's return serves as an analogy for believers' stewardship of God's gifts and their readiness for Christ's Second Coming. The phrase "ruler over all his goods" also employs **Hyperbole** to emphasize the lavishness and comprehensiveness of the reward. While not necessarily literal in an earthly sense, it powerfully conveys the idea of immense trust and authority granted to the faithful. Furthermore, **Symbolism** is evident, where the master represents Christ, the servants represent believers, and the "goods" symbolize all that God entrusts to humanity—time, talents, resources, and spiritual responsibilities.

### THEOLOGICAL AND THEMATIC CONNECTIONS
Matthew 24:47 profoundly connects the present reality of Christian discipleship to the future hope of the Kingdom. It teaches that our faithfulness in managing the "goods" (resources, opportunities, gifts) entrusted to us by God in this life is directly linked to the authority and responsibility we will receive in the age to come. This verse underscores the principle of divine justice and reward, where God honors diligent and obedient service not merely with salvation, but with active participation and elevated roles within His eternal reign. It highlights that the Christian life is not passive waiting, but active stewardship, preparing us for greater service and glory in Christ's kingdom.

* [Luke 12:42-44](/luke/12-42-44 "Luke 12:42-44 - Parable of the Faithful and Wise Manager")
* [1 Corinthians 4:2](/1_corinthians/4-2 "1 Corinthians 4:2 - Required of Stewards")
* [Matthew 25:21](/matthew/25-21 "Matthew 25:21 - Well Done, Good and Faithful Servant")

### REFLECTION AND APPLICATION
Matthew 24:47 serves as a powerful call to intentional and diligent living for every believer. It reminds us that our lives are not our own, but we are stewards of all that God has graciously given us – our time, talents, spiritual gifts, material resources, relationships, and even our very breath. The promise of being made "ruler over all his goods" should ignite a deep sense of purpose and motivation, recognizing that our faithfulness in seemingly small or mundane tasks today is noticed by God and is a preparation for greater responsibilities and blessings in His eternal kingdom. This verse encourages us to live with an eternal perspective, investing our lives in ways that honor God and advance His purposes, knowing that our labor in the Lord is never in vain and will be richly rewarded. It challenges us to examine how we are currently managing what has been entrusted to us, urging us to prioritize kingdom values and to serve with integrity and love, always anticipating the glorious return of our Master.

#### Questions for Reflection
* **What "goods" (talents, resources, time, relationships) has God entrusted to me, and how am I currently stewarding them for His glory?**
* **In what areas of my life do I need to cultivate greater faithfulness and diligence, knowing that even small acts of obedience are significant to God?**
* **How does the promise of future reward and responsibility motivate my daily walk and service to Christ?**
* **Am I living with a conscious awareness of Christ's imminent return, and how does this awareness shape my priorities and actions?**

### FAQ
**What does "all his goods" specifically refer to in this parable?**

Answer: In the context of the parable, "all his goods" (Greek: *hypárchonta*) refers to the master's entire estate, property, and possessions, including the management of his household and other servants. The faithful servant is entrusted with comprehensive authority over everything belonging to the master. Theologically and spiritually, for believers, "all his goods" symbolizes all that God has entrusted to us: our time, talents, spiritual gifts, material resources, opportunities, and even the gospel message itself. It encompasses every aspect of our lives and responsibilities as stewards of God's grace and kingdom. The reward signifies a share in Christ's future reign and increased responsibility in the new heavens and new earth, as seen in passages like [Revelation 3:21](/revelation/3-21 "Revelation 3:21 - Sharing Christ's Throne").

**Is the reward of being made "ruler over all his goods" a literal promise for believers in the future?**

Answer: While the parable uses earthly imagery, the promise of being made "ruler over all his goods" points to a profound spiritual reality and future blessing. It signifies that faithful believers will receive significant honor, authority, and responsibility in God's eternal kingdom. This is not necessarily about literal earthly possessions, but about sharing in Christ's reign and having active roles in the new creation. Scriptures such as [Revelation 2:26-27](/revelation/2-26-27 "Revelation 2:26-27 - Authority Over the Nations") and [Revelation 20:6](/revelation/20-6 "Revelation 20:6 - Priests of God and of Christ") speak of believers reigning with Christ. The emphasis is on the immense trust and partnership God will grant to those who have proven faithful in this life, reflecting the principle found in [Luke 16:10](/luke/16-10 "Luke 16:10 - Faithfulness in Little Things") that "He who is faithful in a very little thing is faithful also in much."

### CHRIST-CENTERED FULFILLMENT
Matthew 24:47, while speaking of the faithful servant's reward, finds its ultimate fulfillment and deepest meaning in Christ Himself. Jesus is the quintessential faithful servant, who perfectly carried out the will of His Father, even to the point of death on the cross ([Philippians 2:8](/philippians/2-8 "Philippians 2:8 - Christ's Obedience to Death")). Unlike the human servant who is merely a steward, Jesus is the Son, the rightful heir to "all his goods"—indeed, to all creation ([Hebrews 1:2](/hebrews/1-2 "Hebrews 1:2 - The Son, Heir of All Things")). His perfect faithfulness and obedience culminated not in a promotion, but in His exaltation to the highest place, where He was given "the name that is above every name" and every knee bows to Him ([Philippians 2:9-11](/philippians/2-9-11 "Philippians 2:9-11 - Christ's Exaltation")). Furthermore, it is through Christ's work that believers are enabled to be faithful stewards. We are made "ruler over all his goods" not by our own merit, but by grace through faith in Him, and by His empowering Spirit. Our future inheritance and co-reign with Christ ([2 Timothy 2:12](/2_timothy/2-12 "2 Timothy 2:12 - If We Endure, We Will Also Reign with Him")) is secured by His faithfulness, and our participation in His kingdom is a direct result of our union with Him, the true and faithful Master who will return to reward His servants.

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

Matthew 25:23

His lord said unto him, Well done, good and faithful servant; thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

Matthew 25:21

His lord said unto him, Well done, [thou] good and faithful servant: thou hast been faithful over a few things, I will make thee ruler over many things: enter thou into the joy of thy lord.

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.

Luke 12:44

Of a truth I say unto you, that he will make him ruler over all that he hath.

2 Timothy 2:12

If we suffer, we shall also reign with [him]: if we deny [him], he also will deny us:

Revelation 3:21

To him that overcometh will I grant to sit with me in my throne, even as I also overcame, and am set down with my Father in his throne.

Revelation 21:7

He that overcometh shall inherit all things; and I will be his God, and he shall be my son.