Devine Scripture

Matthew 24:44

What does Matthew 24:44 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 24:44 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 24:44 means

Drawing a direct conclusion from the parable of the thief, Jesus commands, "Therefore be ye also ready; for in an hour that ye think not the Son of man cometh." This serves as a vital call to practical, ongoing readiness. Since the exact timing of Christ's return is unknown and will be sudden, disciples must maintain a state of spiritual preparedness, living each day in anticipation of His advent. This readiness involves faithful obedience, service, and a watchful heart.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

Therefore be ye also ready; for in an hour that ye think not the Son of man cometh.

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

Therefore be ye also ready; for in an hour that ye think not the Son of man cometh.

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Be ready then; for at a time which you have no thought of the Son of man will come.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

because of this also ye, become ye ready, because in what hour ye do not think, the Son of Man doth come.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Wherefore be you also ready, because at what hour you know not the Son of man will come.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Wherefore ye also, be ye ready, for in that hour that ye think not the Son of man comes.

Context

This verse provides a direct, imperative conclusion to the preceding parable of the thief, crystallizing the call for continuous readiness. It encapsulates the core message of this section, transitioning from the overarching command for preparedness to specific parables illustrating faithful and unfaithful service while awaiting the master's return.

v.43But 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.

v.44This passage

v.45Who then is the faithful and wise servant, whom his lord hath set over his household, to give them their food in due season?

Cross references

Related passages from across Scripture, drawn from the Treasury of Scripture Knowledge.

  • Matthew 25:10

    And while they went away to buy, the bridegroom came; and they that were ready went in with him to the marriage feast: and the door was shut.

  • Philippians 4:5

    Let your forbearance be known unto all men. The Lord is at hand.

  • Matthew 25:13

    Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour.

  • James 5:9

    Murmur not, brethren, one against another, that ye be not judged: behold, the judge standeth before the doors.

  • Revelation 19:7

    Let us rejoice and be exceeding glad, and let us give the glory unto him: for the marriage of the Lamb is come, and his wife hath made herself ready.

  • Matthew 24:27

    For as the lightning cometh forth from the east, and is seen even unto the west; so shall be the coming of the Son of man.

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