Devine Scripture

Matthew 25:13

What does Matthew 25:13 mean?

A plain-English look at Matthew 25:13 in WEB alongside six other public-domain English translations, with cross-references and chapter context.

What Matthew 25:13 means

Jesus concludes the Parable of the Ten Virgins with a direct imperative: "Watch therefore, for ye know not the day nor the hour." This command serves as the central application of the entire parable. It summarizes the need for continuous spiritual vigilance and preparedness for His unexpected return. The uncertainty of the timing demands a constant state of readiness, both in outward expectation and inner spiritual provision. It's a call to actively live in a way that demonstrates a genuine, ongoing relationship with Christ.

Parallel translations

WEB

World English Bible · 2000

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

KJV

King James Version · 1611

Watch therefore, for ye know neither the day nor the hour wherein the Son of man cometh.

ASV

American Standard Version · 1901

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

BBE

Bible in Basic English · 1949

Keep watch, then, because you are not certain of the day or of the hour.

YLT

Young's Literal Translation · 1862

`Watch therefore, for ye have not known the day nor the hour in which the Son of Man doth come.

DRA

Douay-Rheims (Challoner) · 1752

Watch ye therefore, because you know not the day nor the hour.

DBY

Darby Bible · 1890

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

Context

This verse serves as the explicit punchline and direct application of the Parable of the Ten Virgins. It directly follows the bridegroom's judgment in verse 12, explaining *why* the lessons just learned are so critical. This concluding exhortation to "watch" bridges the parable to the broader Olivet Discourse, connecting the narrative of readiness to the overarching theme of Christ's return and transitions into the next parable about stewardship.

v.12But he answered and said, Verily I say unto you, I know you not.

v.13This passage

v.14Forit isaswhena man, going into another country, called his own servants, and delivered unto them his goods.

Cross references

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

  • 1 Peter 5:8

    Be sober, be watchful: your adversary the devil, as a roaring lion, walketh about, seeking whom he may devour:

  • 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.)

  • Acts 20:31

    Wherefore watch ye, remembering that by the space of three years I ceased not to admonish every one night and day with tears.

  • Matthew 24:50

    the lord of that servant shall come in a day when he expecteth not, and in an hour when he knoweth not,

  • Matthew 24:42

    Watch therefore: for ye know not on what day your Lord cometh.

  • 2 Timothy 4:5

    But be thou sober in all things, suffer hardship, do the work of an evangelist, fulfil thy ministry.

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