Devine Scripture

Matthew 24:46

What does Matthew 24:46 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 24:46 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 24:46 means

Jesus pronounces a blessing upon the diligent servant: "Blessed is that servant, whom his lord when he cometh shall find so doing." This verse highlights the reward for consistent faithfulness and obedience, particularly in carrying out one's master-given responsibilities. The blessing is not for a single act of service, but for being found 'so doing'—continuously and diligently—at the unexpected moment of the lord's return. It emphasizes the importance of ongoing, faithful stewardship in anticipation of Christ's advent.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

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

KJV

King James Version · 1611

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

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

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

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

A blessing on that servant, who will be doing so when his lord comes.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

Happy that servant, whom his lord, having come, shall find doing so;

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

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

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

Blessed is that bondman whom his lord on coming shall find doing thus.

Context

This verse directly answers the question posed in verse 45, presenting the blessed outcome for the faithful and wise servant. It follows the establishment of their responsibilities, immediately preceding the promise of greater reward for such diligent service, and thereby contrasting with the negative consequences for an unfaithful servant.

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?

v.46This passage

v.47Verily I say unto you, that he will set him over all that he hath.

Cross references

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

  • Luke 12:43

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

  • 2 Timothy 4:6

    For I am already being offered, and the time of my departure is come.

  • 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:

  • 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.)

  • 2 Peter 1:13

    And I think it right, as long as I am in this tabernacle, to stir you up by putting you in remembrance;

  • 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 sit down to meat, and shall come and serve them.

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