And Jesus answered and said unto them, Take heed that no man deceive you.

MATTHEW 24:4KJV
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Matthew 24:4 (KJV)

What does Matthew 24:4 mean?

Matthew 24:4 records Jesus warning his disciples to be careful so that no one leads them astray or deceives them. Jesus is telling them to stay alert and not be fooled by anyone, especially as they ask about future events.

In this scene, Jesus is speaking privately to his disciples after they ask him about the signs of the end times and his return. The warning comes at the very start of his answer, showing that being misled is a real danger. Jesus’ words set the tone for the rest of his teaching in this chapter, highlighting the need for discernment and caution.

The Greek behind Matthew 24:4

  • The word for "heed" is βλέπετε (blepete), which means "see," "watch," or "pay attention." Here, it carries the sense of being on guard or staying alert, not just physically looking but being mentally and spiritually attentive.
  • The word for "deceive" is πλανήσῃ (planēsē), from a root meaning "to lead astray" or "to cause to wander." This word often refers to being misled in belief or understanding, not just tricked in a simple way. Jesus is warning about being led away from the truth.

Why Matthew 24:4 matters

  • This verse makes clear that Jesus’ first concern is not about giving a timeline, but about his followers being misled by others.
  • The warning frames the entire discussion that follows, showing that confusion and false claims are expected dangers for anyone thinking about the future.
  • Matthew 24:4 helps readers see that spiritual alertness and careful thinking are essential, especially when it comes to teachings about the end times.

Where else these words appear

“deceive” Greek G4105 · used in 37 verses

  • Matthew 18:12 How think ye? if a man have an hundred sheep, and one of them be gone astray, doth he not leave the ninety and nine, and goeth into the mountains, and seeketh that which is gone astray?
  • John 7:47 Then answered them the Pharisees, Are ye also deceived?
  • 2 Peter 2:15 Which have forsaken the right way, and are gone astray, following the way of Balaam the son of Bosor, who loved the wages of unrighteousness;

“heed” Greek G991 · used in 119 verses

  • Matthew 5:28 But I say unto you, That whosoever looketh on a woman to lust after her hath committed adultery with her already in his heart.
  • Luke 10:24 For I tell you, that many prophets and kings have desired to see those things which ye see, and have not seen them; and to hear those things which ye hear, and have not heard them.
  • 1 Corinthians 8:9 But take heed lest by any means this liberty of yours become a stumblingblock to them that are weak.